- Saturday, June 07, 2025
A heartwarming video of Indian-origin girl Aanya proudly sharing her Maggi noodles lunch in a New York City public school has captured hearts online, highlighting the vibrant multiculturalism celebrated during AAPI Heritage Month.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
New York City’s official government Twitter handle, @nycgov, recently shared a heartwarming video that has won the hearts of viewers worldwide. The clip features an Indian-origin girl named Aanya, who proudly introduces her lunchbox during a campaign celebrating the city’s rich cultural diversity and AAPI Heritage Month.
In the short video, Aanya warmly greets viewers and excitedly describes the contents of her lunchbox — Maggi noodles, a beloved Indian snack.
She explains, “My name is Aanya and this is what is in my lunch. I brought Indian noodles called Maggi. We put the noodles in the pot, add hot water and our spices, and then it turns yellow.” Her cheerful and candid explanation offers a glimpse into the everyday cultural experiences of students in New York City’s public schools.
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When asked about her favorite food, Aanya shares, “The chicken curry my mommy makes. She uses different spices, and each one has its own unique aroma.” This heartfelt moment resonates with many viewers, showcasing the importance of family traditions and the joy of sharing cultural heritage through food.
Maggi noodles hold a special place in many Indian households due to their quick preparation and flavorful taste, making them a nostalgic favorite for many. Aanya’s video struck a chord on social media, where users flooded the comments with praise and affection.
One viewer wrote, “Just adorable and sweet to share the beautiful diversity of our city. Thanks for sharing, Aanya!” Another added, “Awww so cute!!! We love you, Aanya!” while a third enthusiastically exclaimed, “Yesss Maggi is life!!! This is so sweet — I love my mom’s curry too.”
The video is part of the “What’s In My Lunchbox” series, a campaign by the City of New York that celebrates the cultural heritage of students in public schools by showcasing the diverse foods they bring from home. The series is designed to honor the multicultural fabric of the city and highlight AAPI Heritage Month through the unique lunches of its students.
This initiative is not a children’s book or story but a social media campaign aimed at promoting inclusivity and cultural pride.
By sharing these personal stories and meals, the campaign fosters greater understanding and appreciation for the variety of backgrounds that make New York City a vibrant and welcoming place.
Aanya’s Maggi noodles lunch video is a small but powerful reminder of the beauty of diversity and the ways in which food connects us to our roots and to each other. It also reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to celebrating and uplifting its multicultural communities.
As New Yorkers continue to embrace their diverse identities, campaigns like “What’s In My Lunchbox” serve as heartwarming examples of how everyday moments can highlight the richness of culture and tradition in the world’s most diverse city.
