Never Have I Ever was not only one of Netflix’s top coming-to-age shows of 2020 but a noteworthy moment for South Asians, especially for those living abroad. Coming from a Sri Lankan-Canadian background, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s character portrayed the life of an Indian girl named Devi Vishwakumar, who after the paralysis caused by the trauma from the death of her father, yearned for popularity among her peers. This show broke through some relevant stereotypes, while also, unfortunately, reinforcing some negative ones.
Mental Health
Throughout the show, Devi sought advice from a therapist that assisted her to realize her trauma instead of running away from it. Especially among South Asian society, mental health is a taboo. Nalini, Devi’s mother, implies that “therapy is for white people,” but made sure Devi attends therapy for the wellness of her health. Her rough love leaves Devi deprived of some much-needed love, especially after the death of her father.
Parenting
Nalini, Devi’s mother, imposes the traditional rule of staying away from boys and focusing on getting into Princeton. In portraying Nalini under this view, the show reinforces a stereotype that parents are incredibly strict towards their children. Often a result of conservative cultures, Nalini and Devi’s relationship is just one example of the many family dynamics that exist.
Gender Roles
Kamala was a strong female character who was pursuing her education in America. When Kamala was on a video call to her prospective in-laws, she was encouraged to talk about not the accomplishments in her career/education, but about her cooking and household skills. Gender roles are pervasive in today’s society and it was incredibly significant for the show to touch upon it.
Culture and Identity
Devi’s desperate search for popularity reveals her true desire to fit in with the people around her. This results in her losing parts of herself and hence the negative mindset towards her South Asian culture. This is a moment not only South Asian-Americans struggle with, but anyone who is growing up amid multiple backgrounds. The idea of embracing both sides of her culture is something that the audience could definitely relate to, as the stereotype of being “too cultural” or “not cultural enough” constantly haunts individuals hailing from multiple backgrounds.
Dating/Sexual Education
Dating and sexual education are seen as taboo, especially in the South Asian community. Devi fiercely breaks through this stereotype from the trailer, where she is seen praying to the Hindu Gods for a “stone-cold hottie who could rock [her] all night long.” Moreover, throughout the whole show, Kamala has appeared as a progressive South Asian female character who was in a relationship with Steve, a CalTech track trainer. This breaks through the stigma of dating.
Written by Shakthika Thevarajah from Newark, New Jersey
Kommentare