NOT ONLY THE BIG CITIES
Indian Mona Kaushik arrived in Bulgaria for the first time in 1979, when her father was a guest lecturer at Sofia University. In 1990 she came back, to study. She's a philologist, teaches Indian Culture at the Sofia and the Veliko Tarnovo universities, and is a specialist in alternative medicine and Ayurveda. She is also the founder of Devam Foundation, Indo-Bulgarian society for arts and culture.
Have you experienced special treatment because you are a foreigner?
I have seen only respect and love. I have heard about Indians being given a rough ride but haven't experienced anything like that.
What about discrimination as a woman?
In Bulgaria women are strong, they have a special place in society. But when I am in a taxi I see that the drivers are often negative towards female drivers. It will take some more time to achieve complete equality.
Is there a typical Bulgarian trait of character?
The Bulgarians pay attention to everything, they evaluate and strive for the best. If they fail, they start blaming themselves.
Has Bulgaria surprised you?
With the people's desire to help. People are open and accept you. Like Indians, Bulgarians can talk for hours with somebody they have just met.
Do you have Bulgarian friends?
Yes, I do. We go to vacations together, in Kovachevitsa, in Dolen. Bulgaria is not only the big cities. I like the villages, and Pernik.
Describe Bulgaria in three words?
Friendship. Respect. Love.
Do you plan to stay for longer?
I didn't know that I am going to stay in Bulgaria. And I still don't. This is the best part of it.
What in your opinion is to be Bulgarian?
To be connected with your roots. The Bulgarians preserve their Bulgarianness wherever in the world they are.
Do you feel a part of Bulgaria?
I had long believed in the Sanskrit wisdom, Earth Is Like a Huge Family, but I really understood its meaning only after I settled in Bulgaria.
