As Central Desi continues to grow and connect with readers across New Jersey and beyond, we are reminded of how vast and global the Desi diaspora is. We often receive pitches from talented writers and creators living beyond our home state, from across the United States to cities around the world. Since our core mission is rooted in New Jersey’s Desi community, we’ve historically had to turn down these pitches. That is, until now.
We are thrilled to introduce a special series called “On the Road.” If you have ever wanted to write for Central Desi but live outside of New Jersey or the United States, this is your time. For this series, we’ll be accepting up to six freelance pitches to develop and run on our platform.
What we are looking for
We want stories that explore the unique dimensions of South Asian identity, culture, and community. Whether you are reporting on your local South Asian community, culture across borders, or personal heritage, we want to see the world through your lens.
You do not have to be South Asian to write for us, but your pitch should be relevant to the South Asian community.
We are open to multiple mediums. Pitches can include traditional reported pieces, multimedia or video reporting or personal essays.
Send your detailed pitch, writing samples or portfolio links to [email protected]. Make sure to include “On the Road” in the subject line when emailing us.
We look forward to reading your work and seeing which road you take us on!
Upcoming events
Images courtesy of Princeton University Concerts
Upcoming in Princeton, Grammy-winning musician Sandeep Das will perform at a series of events. Additionally, on Nov. 1, the acclaimed British pianist, niece of author Salman Rushdie, Mishka Rushdie Momen, will perform. See details for the event line-up below.
Oct. 14 @ 7 p.m. - “Hearing Math” with Sandeep Das
A tabla performance that explores how to make mathematical concepts audible through a collaboration between Indian Classical Music and mathematics. Free event.
Oct. 15 @ 12 p.m. - Live Music Meditation: Sandeep Das and Matthew Weiner
Meditate to the tabla playing of Sandeep Das, guided by Matthew Weiner, Associate Dean in the Princeton University Office of Religious Life. No prior meditation experience necessary. Free event.
Oct. 15 @ 6:30 p.m. - Do-Re-Meet: Pre-Concert Speed Dating
Meet fellow music lovers through a series of fun, facilitated 8-minute speed dates. For age groups 24-39 (Do), 40-59 (Re) and 60+ (Mi). This is a ticketed event and includes the concert at 8:30 PM.
Oct. 15 @ 8:30 p.m. - Sandeep Das & Friends
Shastriya Sangeet is brought to life in this performance by Sandeep Das on tabla, Jay Gandhi on bansuri flute and Abhik Muhkerjee on sitar. This is a ticketed event.
Nov. 1 @ 3 p.m. - Mishka Rushdie Momen Performance & Conversation
The acclaimed pianist, Mishka Rushdie Momen joins broadcaster Terrance McKnight for an intimate afternoon of conversation and performance exploring creativity, resilience and human connection. This is a ticketed event.
Image courtesy of Sachyn Mital
Oct. 17 - Red Baraat Concert
7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Hopewell Valley Stage
5 S. Greenwood Ave
Hopewell, NJ
From their viral NPR Tiny Desk Concert to New Jersey, don’t miss your chance to see Red Baraat bring their Punjabi fusion to our state. Central Desi readers get a special discount. Use the code CENTRALDESI at checkout.
Oct. 17 - Namkeen Nights: Live music by Harleen Kaur
7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Namkeen Hot Chicken
410 Main St
Metuchen, NJ
Join Namkeen Metuchen for an evening full of live music, great food, and good company. Harleen Kaur will be accompanied by Himmat Singh on tabla and Adam Butt on guitar. Chai will be served throughout the night. Tickets can be purchased here; space is limited!
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