Curry, chutney and the Notting Hill Carnival

Sarah Sawh, originally from Trinidad, has played a pivotal role in bringing Indo-Caribbean cuisine to the Notting Hill Carnival since the 1990s. Operating her stall, Sweet Hand Cuisine, she serves popular dishes such as doubles and roti, with her daughters now taking on much of the cooking. Christina Bedeau, Sarah's daughter, reflects on the complexities of her mixed Black-Indian identity in London, noting the challenges of fitting into ethnic categories. Both Christina and fellow carnival attendee Sophia Estelle Mangroo highlight the need to educate others about the history of Indian indentureship in the Caribbean, a narrative often overshadowed by Afro-Caribbean stories. The carnival serves as a celebration of diverse cultural heritage, showcasing the Indo-Caribbean influence through food and music, particularly the chutney genre.

This vibrant fusion of Indian folk music and Caribbean rhythms connects attendees to their roots. The history of Indian migration to the Caribbean, initiated after the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, underscores the importance of recognizing these contributions. The community continues to thrive, preserving their cultural elements while adapting to new environments.