Food serves as a powerful lens through which we can explore cultural identity, migration, and personal growth. A conversation with Zohran unveils how culinary experiences shape one's worldview. Despite engaging in hunger strikes on multiple occasions, Zohran’s passion for gastronomy remains unwavering. For him, food transcends mere sustenance; it is an intricate narrative of people, their journeys, struggles, and triumphs. His reflections delve into the significance of dishes like kuku paka, a savory East African chicken dish infused with coconut flavors, symbolizing the fusion of cultures.

Culinary traditions evolve as they travel across borders, adapting to new environments and tastes. In Kampala, chapati, traditionally an accompaniment in Indian cuisine, has transformed into a standalone street food cherished by many. This transformation exemplifies how diasporic influences create unique culinary identities that defy rigid categorization. Even beverages such as chai adapt to local preferences, becoming milk-based rather than water-based in some regions. These adaptations highlight the fluidity of culture and challenge contemporary political ideologies centered around fixed boundaries and divisions.

Experiences abroad further enrich one's understanding of identity and belonging. Studying in Maine presented Zohran with a contrasting perspective compared to his upbringing in New York City. While in New York, being a person of color did not make him stand out uniquely, in Maine, his ethnic identity became more pronounced. Yet, instead of feeling alienated, Zohran embraced this shift, drawing wisdom from his father's advice. Being part of a minority group offers a distinct vantage point, allowing individuals to perceive truths about places and communities that others might overlook. Thus, food and identity intertwine, fostering connections and promoting inclusivity in an increasingly interconnected world.