Vaishali Dutt’s viral clip highlighting India’s perks stirs fierce debate over patriotism, privilege, and overlooked issues
A video posted by NRI Vaishali Dutt, comparing life in India to Europe, has gone viral—drawing both praise and sharp criticism. In her post, Dutt emphasized conveniences like fast grocery deliveries, seamless UPI payments, and access to healthcare in India, arguing that these aspects are often ignored amidst the “negativity” she sees online about her home country, reported livemint.com.
Her praise of India’s daily comforts was met with accusations of ignoring deeper societal challenges.
Dutt, who resides in Europe, shared a short video listing what she believes India does better than many Western nations. “Yes, there are issues, but let’s not ignore the good,” she wrote in her caption. “No, I’m not moving back just yet… but one day? For sure!”
Among her key comparisons: India’s rapid 10-minute grocery deliveries, robust digital payment infrastructure via UPI, and healthcare that she finds more accessible than in parts of Europe. She also noted feeling safer in India, citing a personal experience of getting robbed in broad daylight abroad.
“UPI and Zepto aren’t enough”—commenters push back on romanticised view
While some applauded Dutt’s effort to spotlight the positives of life in India, others slammed her for glossing over pressing realities like pollution, infrastructure gaps, and labor exploitation.
One user commented, “Groceries delivered in 10 minutes is not a flex—it reflects exploitation. UPI is great, but what about gender safety and low wages?” Another added, “Why glorify India from afar? Come live here, work on a local salary, and then talk.”
Another user questioned, “India is behind in infrastructure, cleanliness and public manners. Address this and we’re first world. Until then, stop cherry-picking.”
Debate highlights tension between NRI patriotism and lived realities in India
The video has since sparked a broader online conversation about how Non-Resident Indians perceive and discuss India—especially when living abroad. While many NRIs express pride in the nation’s progress, critics argue that these views often ignore on-ground challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
The incident highlights the growing discourse around selective comparison, diaspora nationalism, and the fine line between optimism and denial.
