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  I am Arnav, not Arnie.  
 
 

I am Arnav, not Arnie.

http://www.smitasharma.com

Smita Sharma

This series explores the concept of immigration in America through the eyes of six-year-old boy, Arnav Sinha. Arnav was born in India and immigrated to New Jersey at the age of six months. Arnav is intelligent, mischievous and eccentric, like many other boys of his age. But he is confused about finding the right balance between the Indian and Western culture in is life.

Almost all immigrant parents living in United States are quite conscious of this struggle. They introduce their children to their cultures in a subtle way from a very early age. However, Arnav is expected to excel in his studies, music, painting, sports and other extra-curricular activities. The pressures are double for an immigrant boy of his age because he is constantly trying to juggle, at times, conflicting cultural values. He finds himself in the crowd and tries to be a part of the ethos, as he is becoming more aware of his own identity. He does not see himself different from any other American kid. Although he loves to visit his grandparents in India, he calls America his home. His friends and neighbors lovingly call him Arnie, but he insists on being called Arnav.