A Reddit user’s reflection on living abroad for three years ignites a lively debate about identity and cultural appreciation among NRIs
An NRI who has been living in Paris for three years recently shared her experience on Reddit, stating that being away from India has made her feel more connected to her Indian heritage than ever before, reported ndtv.com.
Increased Appreciation for Indian Heritage While Living Abroad
The user wrote, “I’ve been living in Paris for almost three years now, and funny enough, I feel more Indian than ever. Back when I was in India, I never really thought about my culture much—it was just normal, part of everyday life. But now that I’m away, I appreciate it so much more.”
She elaborated on how living abroad made her rediscover her love for Indian food and music.
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Despite trying different cuisines, she feels that no food can compare to Indian dishes, praising their complex spices and layers of flavour
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“No matter how many cuisines I try, nothing hits like Indian food. It’s not just about the taste—it’s the spices, the layers of flavour, the way every dish is an experience,” she wrote
Additionally, she shared a newfound appreciation for Indian music, which she had not valued as much before moving abroad. She also described how she felt a stronger sense of patriotism after her experiences abroad. “Even with all of India’s problems, I feel so much more patriotic now,” she mentioned.
A Divided Debate on Indian Identity Abroad
The Reddit post sparked a passionate discussion among Indians living abroad. Many agreed with the sentiment, sharing how living in a foreign country deepened their connection to their Indian roots. However, others disagreed, stating that their move abroad made them more critical of aspects of Indian culture. One user commented, “When I first moved abroad, I immediately realised what my family and friends were missing. Basics of cleanliness, infrastructure, lifestyle, and more importantly civic sense is almost absent.”
Another user added, “It’s a fairly common phenomenon among immigrant communities. Lots of sociological and anthropological case studies and ethnographies on this very experience.”
Some participants emphasized the importance of adapting to the local culture while remaining true to one’s heritage.
One commented, “If one is moving overseas permanently, it would be better to understand and adapt to the local history and culture. Remember that your children will never feel for or appreciate the ‘Indianness’ like you do. Forcing it in them will lead them to live a double life.”
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