Being Chindian: Cultural mix examined in this book

Most Chindians are receptive towards various forms of diversity,’ says Dr Chandran (left), pictured here with daughters Rona Arissha, 16, Rona Evana, five, and husband Jack Wong. Photo: The Star/Azlina Abdullah

Once upon a time, Rona Chandran married Jack Wong, and they had two beautiful daughters. Daughters who people call “Chindian” in reference to their mixed Chinese-Indian parentage.

Nowadays, this isn’t unusual enough to provoke comment, nor is it derogatory. But the girls’ mother holds a PhD in anthropology and she was curious what the twinning of two rich cultures within her two girls means for their lives in multiracial Malaysia.