Food, Tea, and Transformation: Anjali's Path to Resilience in Malladi’s ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’

Abstract

This paper explores the intricate relationship between food, tea, and identity formation in Amulya Malladi’s novel A Breath of Fresh Air. The protagonist, Anjali, navigates her journey from depression to resilience through her culinary practices, which serve as a mode of communication and a tool for emotional healing. The study draws on critical theories of identity formation, particularly those from diaspora studies, to analyze how food and tea act as symbols of cultural identity and personal transformation. By examining Anjali's interactions with food and tea, the paper highlights how these elements reflect her emotional states, social relationships, and cultural heritage. The analysis is enriched by the theoretical perspectives of scholars like Arjun Appadurai, Claude Lévi-Strauss, and Carole Counihan, who emphasize the communicative and symbolic roles of food in shaping identity. The findings suggest that Anjali’s culinary practices are not merely about sustenance but are deeply entwined with her efforts to reclaim her identity, connect with her heritage, and navigate the complexities of her life. The paper concludes that food and tea in A Breath of Fresh Air are powerful motifs that facilitate Anjali's emotional and psychological healing, underscoring the transformative power of culinary practices in personal and cultural identity formation.