South African Spice

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast! In today's episode, we delve into the vibrant world of dance within the South African Indian community. Our guest, Riona Maharaj, founder of the renowned Surya Dance Academy, takes us on a journey through the rich cultural tapestry woven into every graceful movement. Riona shares her personal experiences and deep connection to dance, rooted in her heritage and upbringing. We explore the founding story of Surya Dance Academy, a beacon of excellence in dance education and artistic expression. Riona opens up about the challenges and triumphs of nurturing young talent, instilling a sense of pride in their roots while embracing creativity and innovation. Through insightful anecdotes and spirited discussions, we uncover the transformative power of dance as a medium for self-expression, community bonding, and bridging cultural divides. Riona's passion for her craft shines through as she shares her vision for the future of dance in South Africa and beyond. Tune in as we celebrate the beauty, grace, and resilience of the South African Indian community through the universal language of dance. Don't miss this mesmerizing episode filled with rhythm, tradition, and the joy of movement. Be sure to follow Riona & Surya Dance Academy Instagram- @rithatsme Instagram- @suryadancesa Email- info@suryadance.co.za Visit- www.suryadance.co.za Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alisha@southafricanspice.com⁠⁠⁠ Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe! Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast! 

In today's episode, we celebrate our mother’s from afar for Mother’s day. We chat about some of our favourite memories and how our relationships have evolved over the years. 

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alisha@southafricanspice.com⁠⁠⁠ 

Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!

Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we welcome our new partner, Siveshen Chettiar, to the Hot Seat as he shares his remarkable journey. From uncovering his family history to navigating the challenges of dyslexia, Siveshen offers a raw and authentic glimpse into his life.
Growing up in an unconventional South African Indian home, Siveshen's story is a tapestry of resilience, perseverance, and triumph. Through candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, he invites us into the depths of his experiences, shedding light on the complexities of identity and belonging.
Join us as we embark on a profound exploration of Siveshen's life, filled with twists, turns, and moments of profound insight. This episode promises to inspire, enlighten, and spark meaningful conversations about the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing one's unique journey.
Be sure to follow Siveshen
@siveshen.chettiar
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alisha@southafricanspice.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we delve into the nuanced and often challenging terrain of body image alongside the remarkable Mi'chal Naidoo. With unwavering honesty and vulnerability, Mi'chal takes us on a journey through her personal experiences, shedding light on the complexities of self-perception and societal pressures.
From navigating through insecurities to cultivating a profound sense of self-love and acceptance, Mi'chal's journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for listeners of all walks of life. With candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, she invites us to challenge conventional beauty standards and embrace the beauty within ourselves.
Be sure to follow Mi'chal:
Instagram- @michal_naidoo
TikTok- @michal_naidoo
Blog site- https://michalnaidoo.com/
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alisha@southafricanspice.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we embark on a journey into the working world with Alisha & Mikhail! From first job nerves to career triumphs, our latest podcast episode is your ultimate guide into their lives in the corporate jungle. Tune in for valuable insights, laughs, and real talk
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@southafricanspice.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we celebrate our 25th episode by listening to Alisha share her 25 realizations in different aspects of her life such as, immigrating, starting a new career, being in her 30s, married life and about herself.
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we reflect on what this journey has brought us and also let our listeners know what's next as we make some exciting changes.
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, it's time for Alisha & Mikhail to give us a recap of the conversations and stories they've shared thus far. Let's tie up some loose ends so we can be fully prepared for the changes that are soon to come.
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we meet Kishan Nadasen, a young South African Indian who shares his experiences of growing up in a culturally diverse home & his love for sports. Kishan also shares how playing Thunee was the start of new friendships while he also recaps his visit to the Netherlands.
Be sure to follow Kishan
Instagram- @kiki.nad
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we sit down for Part 2 with the Queen of Comedy, Krijay Govender, for an enlightening, refreshing and informative conversation as get a true look into the core of who Krijay is & learn about her story.
She’s a mom, wife, daughter, sister, actress, comedian, award winning director, performer & writer, and former Miss India South Africa so there’s definitely plenty to discover.
Be sure to follow Krijay:
Instagram- @krijaygovender
https://krijaygovender.com/
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we meet the voice behind the character, Arsevan in the Keeping Up With The Kandasamy's franchise, as we get to know Rushil Juglall. Not only is he an actor but a writer too with a truly intriguing & inspiring heritage to share with us. We also get some insight into his next movie releasing soon.
Be sure to follow Rushil
Instagram- @rushil_actor
YouTube- @RushilJuglall
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we meet the spunky Darrien Luke. He’s a singer, song writer, actor, performer, volleyball playing, Bollywood loving, sogi making Millennial who is just full of surprises and this is where you can get to discover all that lays beneath the surface.
Be sure to follow Darrien
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/artist/4eNbhyS9quyqlajnSEwVhj?si=PdX0WfesRuamHKRknRzD8g
Instagram- @darrienluke
TikTok- @darrienluke
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we sit down for Part 1 with the Queen of Comedy, Krijay Govender, for an enlightening, refreshing and informative conversation as get a true look into the core of who Krijay is & learn about her story.
She’s a mom, wife, daughter, sister, actress, comedian, award winning director, performer & writer, and former Miss India South Africa so there’s definitely plenty to discover.
Be sure to follow Krijay:
Instagram- @krijaygovender
https://krijaygovender.com/
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, Alisha & Mikhail take us on a nostalgic trip of their younger days when going out, partying and dancing were all part of their lives.
Disclaimer: This episode does not encourage the consumption of alcohol. Remember to always drink responsibly!
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast! In today's episode, Keaton Chetty is back for another episode of "Clowning with Keaton" to share his journey preparing for marriage and some of the conversations currently taking place.
Keaton shares his views on talking about conflict, finances, children, goals, hobbies and more as he prepares for marriage.
Be sure to follow Keaton:
TikTok- @⁠cheatonketty
Instagram- @cheatonketty
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we meet Dillon Murugan, a fellow expat & host of After The Bell Podcast and Author, who will be chatting to us about the wonders of Gender Roles and how we've experienced this through different phases of life.
Be sure to follow Dillon:
Spotify- After the Bell with Dillon
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@afterthebell1991
Blog- https://afterthebelldillon.blogspot.com/?m=1
Instagram- @dillon_murugan
Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ2N46MH?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_ESEBWK5V7X888C57CNQF
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love...

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In this episode, Keaton Chetty returns to the podcast in a new segment; Clowning with Keaton. He openly shares his story about his leap of faith from Christianity to Islam and some of the highs, lows and changes that it comes with.
Be sure to follow Keaton:
TikTok- @⁠cheatonketty
Instagram- @cheatonketty
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Priyanka, the creative force behind InspiredByPrisFood and InspiredByPrisTravel, for an enriching conversation centered around our beloved South African Indian cuisine.
Join us for Part 2 of this conversation as we delve into Priyanka's journey, from her roots to her passion for food content creation.
We learn more about Priyanka's first meal she ever prepared and her love for Asian food while we explore the similarities and differences between India Indian food and South African Indian food. We also talk about the beauty behind all the mouth watering South African dishes that define and unite us.
Be sure to follow Priyanka:
TikTok- @⁠inspiredbyprisfood
Instagram- @inspiredbyprisfood
YouTube- @InspiredByPri (https://www.youtube.com/@InspiredByPri)
Blog- https://inspiredbyprisfood.com/
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we dive into the search for our own truths as Alisha & Mikhail delve into the realm of religion and their personal journeys and beliefs - one as a Hindu, the other as an Atheist.
Alisha's path intertwines with the experiences exploring Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. She paints a picture of her spiritual evolution and her current beliefs and practices.
Meanwhile, Mikhail's journey leads him on a different quest, one towards atheism. With intellectual curiosity and introspection, he navigates the realms of reason and skepticism, ultimately finding solace in the absence of belief.
As we delve into their stories, we uncover the joys, challenges, and moments of enlightenment that have shaped their perspectives. Through their candid reflections, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse paths to spiritual fulfillment.
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In today's episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Priyanka, the creative force behind InspiredByPrisFood and InspiredByPrisTravel, for an enriching conversation centered around our beloved South African Indian cuisine.
Join us for Part 1 of this conversation as we delve into Priyanka's journey, from her roots to her passion for food content creation. We explore the deep-seated connection between food and our South African Indian identity, discovering how it not only unites us but also defines our cultural heritage.
Throughout the episode, we unravel the layers of Priyanka's culinary journey, from her early experiences to her present-day inspirations. From favorite childhood dishes to the impact of food on our communities, Priyanka shares heartfelt stories and insights that will leave you feeling nourished in both mind and spirit.
Be sure to follow Priyanka:
TikTok- @⁠inspiredbyprisfood
Instagram- @inspiredbyprisfood
YouTube- @InspiredByPri (https://www.youtube.com/@InspiredByPri)
Blog- https://inspiredbyprisfood.com/
Look out for Part 2 of this wholesome conversation.
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast! Get ready to unpack a powerful and deeply personal topic with Alisha and Mikhail in today's episode: "Daddy Issues". Join us as we embark on an emotional journey, delving into the complexities of absent fathers.

In this raw and candid discussion, Alisha and Mikhail discuss those who have filled the roles of father figure in their lives, the stigma and stereotypes attached to coming from a "broken home" and the role of step-parents.

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ Until next time...

Shup, sweet & awe!

Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
Joining us in the Hot Seat today is Keaton Chetty. A Muslim content creator, mainly focusing on comedy & reliving stories about how many of us grew up in South African Indian households. Recently he's been sharing his journey into Islam and all the experiences that come with that. Along with being a content creator Keaton is also a photographer and is working on cinematography.
Keaton loves telling stories that make people laugh and is excited to be on the South African Spice Podcast!
Be sure to follow Keaton:
TikTok- @⁠cheatonketty
Instagram- @cheatonketty
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!

Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
Get ready to unpack a powerful and deeply personal topic with Alisha and Mikhail in today's episode: "Who's Your Daddy?!". Join us as we embark on an emotional journey, delving into the complexities of absent fathers.

In this raw and candid discussion, Alisha and Mikhail courageously share their own experiences and relationships with their fathers, setting the stage for a heartfelt exploration. From poignant memories to lingering emotions, their stories lay the foundation for an introspective deep dive. As we navigate through the layers of absence and its impact, we invite you to join us in reflecting on the profound effects this aspect of life can have.

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast!
In this episode we introduce our very first guest in the Hot Seat, Ovarnia Reddy. Join us as we unravel the fascinating journey of this young content creator, known for capturing the essence of South African Indian households in her hilarious TikTok videos.
From her childhood days in Jo'burg, to the creative sparks that fuel her content, Ovarnia shares her story, offering insights into the inspiration behind her comical videos. Discover the moments that shaped her perspective, the challenges she's overcome, and the joy she finds in connecting with her audience.
Whether you're a fan of her relatable sketches or curious about the creator behind the content, this episode is your backstage pass into Ovarnia's world. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the life of a rising TikTok star!
Be sure to follow Ovarnia:
TikTok- @varnia.com (https://www.tiktok.com/@varnia.com?_t=8jodU5gLKDt&_r=1)
Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠⁠ 
Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!
Lotsa love…

Welcome to the South African Spice Podcast! In this episode we relieve our experience of puberty, never getting "The Talk", figuring out our evolving bodies, the sources we had to turn to and reflect on the things we wish we knew.

Alisha talks about what it was like getting her period for the first time while Mikhail realized that he didn't even know he was going through puberty.

Here's to encouraging puberty to be part of normal conversations with future conversations.

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠ 

Until next time... Shup, sweet & awe!

Lotsa love…

Whatup World!

Join Mikhail and Alisha in this episode as they take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting the rollercoaster ride of their teenage years. From navigating the intricate dynamics of friendships to the art of concealing the truth from strict parents, they unravel the tales that defined their adolescence.

Dive into the challenges of choosing subjects, the excitement of celebrating matric results, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Get ready for a candid conversation that explores the shared experiences, laughs, and occasional mischief that shaped their formative years.

We hope this sends you on your own trip down memory lane.

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on ⁠alishafied@gmail.com⁠ 

Until next time... Shup, Sweet & Awe!

Lotsa love…

Welcome to a special episode of the South African Spice podcast, featuring our newest co-host, Mikhail Bramdaw!

In this episode, Mikhail takes the reins and delves into the intriguing world of family names, sharing cherished childhood memories that have left an indelible mark on our adult selves and growing up in a non-white community.

We also talk about growing up with strict mums who, with unwavering love, instilled discipline and values. Join us as we start this personal and nostalgic journey through our memories.

Until next time... shup, sweet ad awe!

Lotsa love...

Welcome to the South African Spice podcast! In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey into the heritage of Alisha's family, as shared by her vibrant maternal grandmother. From the shores of Durban to the intricate tapestry of cultural and personal stories, we explore the lives of Govindama and Madhuray, parents to the Alisha's beloved granny, Violet.

The narrative unfolds, revealing tales of resilience, love, and sacrifice. From Madhuray's intriguing origins to Govindama's modernity in the face of adversity, the family's story intertwines with the historical events of the 1949 riots and World War II. We delve into Violet's experiences, her schooling, and the challenges she faced during a time of limited educational opportunities for girls.

The podcast introduces Nad Pullian, the first-generation South African grandfather, whose journey from a soft drink company to becoming the first non-white General Sales Manager at Coca-Cola is a testament to determination. The love story between Nad and Violet blossoms, bringing together a union that transcends all others.

The family's life in Magazine Barracks, Durban, unfolds with anecdotes of soccer, strict TV-watching rituals, and a sense of community in Unit 2, Chatsworth. Nad's illness becomes a poignant chapter, showcasing resilience and the Pullian matriarch's ability to adapt to changing times.

Through this podcast, we glimpse into a family's cultural practices, breaking stereotypes and embracing individual beliefs. As the narrative unfolds, we witness the strength of a woman who, as a widow, navigates the complexities of the modern world. 

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on alishafied@gmail.com 

Until next time, keep it sweet, keep it sassy, and keep it spicy! 

Lotsa love…

Welcome to the very first episode of the South African Spice podcast! 

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted identity of South African Indians. Defined by their distinct ethnicity, South African Indians have a rich cultural heritage shaped by traditions, languages, and customs rooted in their Indian ancestry. Despite being classified as a separate racial group historically, they proudly embrace their South African nationality, contributing to the nation's diverse multicultural landscape. The episode delves into the significance of culture, religion, and the complex interplay of race, ethnicity, and nationality, offering a nuanced understanding of what it means to be a South African Indian in today's dynamic and evolving society.

I also explain how I identify as a South African Indian,  why I started this podcast, what to expect in upcoming episodes and who you will hearing from in future episodes.

Follow us on Instagram @SouthAfricanSpice and feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, opinions, recommendations and stories by popping me a DM or emailing me on alishafied@gmail.com 

Until our next episode, shup, sweet and awe!

Lotsa Love… 

Welcome to "South African Spice: Alishafied Unplugged," the sizzling podcast that's as vibrant as the rainbow nation itself! 

Embark on a journey deep into the heart of my experiences, where every episode is a blend of nostalgia, laughter, and the unique spices that make up my identity in the rainbow nation. Join me as I unravel the captivating tales of my roots with heartfelt interviews, and together, we'll delve into the stories of my ancestors’ arrival from India to South Africa, painting a vivid picture of their struggles and triumphs. It's a living history book, narrated with love and passion. 

I'll engage in candid conversations with my friends, family and husband, exploring the nooks and crannies of our childhoods, the magic of our weddings, and the quirky anecdotes that shaped us. From the vibrant streets of Durban & Jo’burg to the rhythmic pulse of our expat lives, every episode is a symphony of South African Indian experiences. There's no script, no rehearsals – just the raw, unfiltered stories of my life as an Indian lady navigating through everything that has shaped and molded me into who I am today.

So, get ready to be a part of the Alishafied community! Hit play and let the spicy symphony of life serenade your senses. Spice up your day with "South African Spice: Alishafied Unplugged" it's a celebration of culture, family, and the unspoken bond that ties us all together.

We'd love to hear from you so feel free to email us: Alishafied@gmail.com

Stepping away and signing off until our next rendezvous. For now, shup, sweet & awe, and always remember: keep it sassy, keep it sweet, and keep it spicy!

Lotsa Love...