Meet Sharada Balachandran Orihuela: Kamala Harris' Mexican cousin who grew up with her

Sharada Balachandran Orihuela, the Mexican cousin of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, provides a unique perspective on their relationship and the multicultural tapestry that defines their family. Born in Mexico City, Sharada shares a deep connection with Harris through their shared Indian heritage.

Sharada's life has been a blend of cultures, spending her early years between Mexico and India before moving to California in 2001. This move marked a significant shift in her life, as she lived with her aunt Shyamala and cousin Kamala.

The Kamala Harris influence

Already deeply involved in her political activism, Kamala played an essential role in helping Sharada get used to her new environment. Whether taking her to concerts or political rallies, the Vice President, now presidential candidate for the Democratic Party and Donald Trump's rival, acted as a mentor and guide, shaping Sharada's understanding of American society and politics.

One of Sharada's most memorable experiences was when Kamala took her to her first punk rock concert in San Francisco. This gesture was more than just a fun night out; it symbolized Kamala's role as the "big sister" who introduced Sharada to new cultural experiences in the U.S.

"Bad Religion was one of my favorite bands. I went to high school in India. There weren't many punk-rock concerts. So I would listen to their music on my Walkman, and when I moved to the U.S., I thought, Now I'm going to be able to go to all those concerts, and my prima took me to many," she says in an interview with EFE news.

This bond was not just about shared activities but also about deep-rooted family values—justice, family welfare, and the well-being of the common person—that both cousins hold dear.

A multicultural family

Sharada reflected on the diverse nature of their family, which includes Indian, Jamaican, and Mexican roots. She argues that this diversity characterizes not only their family but also the broader American experience. Kamala's ability to navigate these different cultural landscapes has shaped her political career and left a lasting impact on her family, including Sharada.

"When I think of Kamala, I see a person who has many values, including the importance of family, justice, and the well-being of the common person. She is a person with solid principles and values that have to do with justice and economic justice," explains Balachandran Orihuela.

Balachandran Orihuela lived most of her life between Mexico and India. Still, in 2001, she moved to Oakland (California) to study at the university and lived with her aunt Shyamala, Harris' mother. At that time, the two became closer.

Their close-knit relationship is evident as Sharada speaks about Kamala affectionately, describing her as a caring, warm person who loves cooking and sharing recipes with family. This personal side of Kamala contrasts with her public image as a tough political figure, showing the vice president and Presidential candidate's multidimensional nature.