The Spouse of the Egyptian Ambassador in 20 Questions

In this special Proust-style interview, Mrs Reham Handoussa, spouse of the Ambassador of Egypt to India and Chairperson of SHoM, offers a warm glimpse into her personality, memories, and experiences in India. Her responses reflect a life shaped by curiosity, cultural appreciation, and a deep affection for the country she now calls a second home.

1. One word that comes to mind when you think of India.
   Diversity.
2. Your favourite Indian festival and why.
   Holi, because it is colourful and joyful.
3. A Hindi word you enjoy saying (even if you don’t fully understand it!).
   Theek hai.
4. The dish you always ask for when in India.
5. One habit of yours that surprises people.
   Being meticulous.
6. The first thing you do after a long flight.
   Go to the gym.
7. One piece of advice you always give members of SHoM.
   Live India.
8. A city in India you could live in for a month.
   Goa.
   
9. The Indian spice you cannot live without.
   Saffron.
   
10. One cultural experience in India that made you smile recently.
    Kathak dance.
11. A little-known secret or quirky habit about your husband that would surprise people.
    He is a family man.
12. Something you always carry in your handbag or purse.
    Pills for headaches.
13. One thing about Egypt you wish every Indian knew.
    Its potential.
14. The best piece of advice you have ever received.
    Enjoy gaining experience.
15. A book or film that inspires your work with SHoM.
    Leadership Skills by Jo Owen.
16. A childhood memory that shaped who you are today.
    Being raised by my grandmother.
17. The one gesture or habit of Indians that you find charming.
    The head movement.
18. One thing you wish to achieve with SHoM in the next year.
    Increasing the number of members and discovering new aspects of Indian culture.
19. A song or tune that always makes you happy.
    “Those Were the Days” by Mary Hopkin.
20. If you could invite any Indian personality for tea, who would it be?
    Gandhi.