-
Viral post highlights NRI frustration over rising anti-India sentiment in Canada
-
Reddit thread sparks debate as overseas Indians weigh returning home amid changing public attitudes abroad
A Reddit post by a Canadian citizen of Indian origin has gone viral, igniting debate over rising anti-Indian sentiment in Canada and the growing number of NRIs considering moving back to India, reported businesstoday.in.
The user, in a post titled “Canadian citizen, considering moving back to India forever”, wrote, “I took Canadian citizenship about a year and half ago and now I feel like that was the biggest mistake of my life. The increased anti-Indian sentiment I feel like is only going to get worse.” Seeking advice from people with Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, the post asked about legal hurdles, job prospects, and life back in India.
The discussion quickly attracted responses from others in similar situations. One user, who moved back to India with Canadian citizenship and an OCI card, shared, “It was my personal choice, not due to anti-India sentiment. Moving back on OCI had almost zero effect on my job, banking, or daily life — I hardly remember I don’t have Indian citizenship.”
NRI’s regret over citizenship sparks wave of responses on life back in India.
Another couple, who returned in August 2024, described a positive transition, especially after the birth of their first child. “No waiting for appointments, top-notch hospital facilities, and our CAD savings go a long way here. We’re freelancing and exploring business options, but most importantly, we’re close to family,” they wrote.
Some users pointed out a broader pattern of shifting attitudes in the West. “Anti-India sentiment has increased everywhere, not just Canada. When I landed here 17 years ago, Chinese immigrants were targeted — now it’s us. The economy plays a role, but most Canadians are still great people,” one commenter noted.
The thread reflects a dilemma faced by many in the Indian diaspora — weighing the economic and lifestyle advantages abroad against a rising sense of alienation and a renewed pull toward home.
