Column | Phuphee doesn’t do curses
This column reflects on the life of a woman named Muntazar, who seeks guidance from a wise elder named Phuphee to cope with the long-term emotional abuse and toxic behavior of her brother. Through the metaphor of 'kandi kulchas'—sweet breads baked in a tandoor—the narrative explores themes of resilience, the endurance of familial trauma, and the quiet strength found in choosing grace over retaliation.
Why it matters
The piece highlights the cultural and personal importance of mentorship and community support systems in navigating domestic abuse and toxic family dynamics in Kashmiri society.
Column | Phuphee doesn’t do curses A Little Life left ‘How do people forget that this kulcha that is so sweet on the tongue, has been forged in the fire?’ Illustration: Zainab Tambawalla https://th-i.thgim.com/public/life-and-style/r3bhtc/article71604289.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Saba.jpg She has a better way of dealing with cruel men and it begins with a basket of sweet kulchas A long time ago, on a calm balmy morning in October, a woman arrived at Phuphee’s house. She had brought with her a basket full of kandi kulchas (sweet kulchas). Her name was Muntazar. I had seen her at Phuphee’s house many times before. In the past, whenever our paths had crossed, she had always looked grief stricken and small, but today she seemed brighter and stood a little taller. Phuphee greeted her warmly and asked Aisha to bring an extra pyaale (teacup).
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