S2 Ep4: Where's Home Really... for Nadiya Hussain?
Nov 2, 2023
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Nadiya Hussain, winner of the 2015 Bake Off, discusses her journey, her grandma's influence, the impact of Bangladeshi culture, achievements, hard work, and representation. She also shares amusing childhood stories and brings baked goods for Jimi to try!
Nadia's grandma's resilience and supportiveness have greatly influenced her and inspired her to ignore negativity and pursue her dreams.
Nadia's understanding of 'home' has evolved to include self-acceptance and finding solace within oneself.
Deep dives
Nadia's Maternal Grandma
Nadia talks about her maternal grandma, an intuitive and strong woman whom she adores. Her grandma has a deep understanding of her grandchildren and their individual traits, even recognizing Nadia's footsteps when she enters the house. Nadia shares heartfelt stories about her grandma's difficult life in Bangladesh, getting married at a young age, raising children, and coming to the UK. Despite the hardships, her grandma remains resilient and supportive, encouraging Nadia to pursue her dreams and ignore any negativity from others. Nadia deeply admires her grandma and sees her as a role model.
The Importance of Being at Home with Yourself
Nadia reflects on the meaning of 'home' and shares a personal realization that being at home with oneself is essential for true happiness. She used to define home as the place where her children and husband were, but she now understands that self-acceptance and contentment within oneself are fundamental. Nadia believes that without finding solace and peace within, one cannot feel truly happy anywhere else. This understanding has been a transformative revelation for her and has shaped her perspective on what home truly means.
The Phrase 'Have You Eaten?' as an Expression of Love
Nadia explores the phrase 'have you eaten?' as a powerful expression of love in her culture. Despite growing up in a family that didn't express affection conventionally, Nadia deeply understands the love and care behind the simple act of asking someone if they have eaten. She recognizes that love can be shown in different ways and that this phrase holds a special place in her heart. It represents a sense of nurturing and concern for someone's well-being, and she sees it as a beautiful alternative to the traditional 'I love you.'
Embracing Identity and Representation
Nadia discusses the significance of embracing her cultural identity and the importance of representation. She takes pride in representing various communities, including stay-at-home moms, immigrants, and Bangladeshis. Nadia recognizes the challenges of being a woman of color, a Muslim, and an immigrant, but she remains determined to take up space and create opportunities for others who lack representation. She encourages her children and others to assert themselves and make room for voices that are underrepresented, emphasizing the power of self-belief and paving the way for inclusivity.
"My mum always says to me, ‘Where are you going to get back to the kids?’ And my grandma will whisper, ‘Don’t listen to any of them, just keep doing it.’”
Winner of the 2015 Bake Off, chef, presenter, and author of 8 cookery books including her latest title to accompany BBC TV show, Nadiya’s Simple Spices, Nadiya Hussain is a true powerhouse.
Get ready for laughter, tears and, quite literally, food for thought, as she discuss why she’d never eat a British korma, the hilarious way her grandad would wake up his grandchildren using straw and match, and why she feels the weight representing so many different groups.
Plus, she brought baked goods for Jimi to try! But what’s the verdict…?
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