Us returns IIT graduate couple shared their experience of lifestyle in India vs US. How are they adjusting in India after spending several years in US. Their feedback helps NIRs consider a return to their homeland.
Nayrith Bhattacharya and his wife Rishita Das, who graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur. Both left their country in 2016 to pursue higher education. After spending a few years in the US they returned to India in August last year. Bhattacharya is the co-founder of an AI startup called Gushworks, while Das works as an assistant professor of aerospace engineering at IISc Bengaluru.
My wife and I made the decision of moving back to India from the US after completing our higher education.
— Nayrhit (@NayrhitB) August 20, 2024
We decided to dedicate our lives to building & researching technologies out of India for the world.
We recently completed 1 year of our stay here.
To all the Indian… https://t.co/zMKQ80VVmU pic.twitter.com/wFIermI1Ij
Advantages of Living in India:
- Affordability and Convenience of Domestic Help: The couple highlighted the ease of finding domestic help in India, which saves them much time each week.
- Superior Digital Infrastructure: They were impressed by India’s digital payment systems and quick commerce deliveries. They find them even more efficient than similar services in the US.
- Stronger Social Connections: The husband noted building meaningful relationships in India was easier than in the US. Where interactions often felt superficial.
Other Observations:
- Traffic Challenges: While not necessarily worse than major US cities. India’s unpredictable driving habits and mix of vehicles can make traffic more frustrating.
- Cultural Differences: The couple acknowledged missing aspects of American life like orderly queues, but also expressed hope that India’s acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities would improve.
- Job Market Considerations: While jobs are available in both countries. High-paying positions in India may not translate to the same standard of living as in the US.
IIT couple’s experience highlights the unique set of advantages and challenges that come with relocating to India. Their honest perspective can be a helpful resource for NRIs considering taking a step forward.
Differences Between Life in the USA and India
| Factor | USA | India |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | More Pollution | Poor infrastructure (unplanned cities, narrow roads, traffic issues) |
| Basic Needs (Water, Electricity, Gas) | Abundant | Scarcity of resources (water, electricity) |
| Cost of Branded Goods | Relatively cheaper | Higher prices for branded goods |
| Pollution | Less Pollution | More Pollution |
| Historical Places & National Parks | Well-preserved historical places and National Parks | Limited access to historical places and National Parks |
| Food | Multicuisine restaurants and good food quality | Multicuisine available |
| Luxury Cars | Affordable luxury cars | Limited access to luxurious cars |
| Work Culture | Flexible work culture, good compensation packages | Limited access |
| Job Security | Less secure (common layoffs) | Easier to get a visa |
| Family Life | Difficult to stay with family due to visa restrictions | It is likely closer to the family |
Drawbacks
| Factor | India | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Air and Noise Pollution | High | Low |
| Cleanliness | Low | High |
| Traffic | High (due to metro/flyover construction) | Moderate |
| Road Conditions | Poor (potholes) | Good |
| Waste Management | Inefficient | Efficient |
| Overcrowding | High | Low |
| Infrastructure | Overall poor | Overall good |
| Cost of High-End Goods | High | Relatively lower |
| Job Security | High (cannot be deported) | Relatively lower |
| Work-Life Balance | Can be challenging | Generally good |
Positive Aspects
| Factor | India | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Family Ties | Strong | Can be distant |
| Household Help | Readily available | Less common |
| Weather (Bangalore) | Pleasant | Varies |
| Online Services | Well-developed (grocery apps) | Well-developed |
| Entertainment Options | Diverse (restaurants, pubs, malls) | Diverse |
| Retail Stores | International brands available | Diverse |
| Work Culture (Product-Based Companies) | Similar | Similar |
| Cost of Living | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Economic Growth | Rapidly growing | Stable |
| Cultural Diversity | High | High |
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