IITian Couples: After several years in the United States, IIT Kharagpur alumni Nayrhit and Rishita Das made the life-changing decision to return to India. Their move was driven by a mix of personal and professional reasons, but also by a desire to reconnect with their roots. Now, a year after their return, the couple has shared ten significant differences they noticed between life in the US and India. These insights are invaluable for anyone considering moving back to India or simply curious about the contrasting lifestyles in these two diverse countries.
1. Domestic Help: A Luxury in the US, A Necessity in India
For Nayrhit and Rishita, one of the most significant differences between India and the US is the availability and affordability of domestic help. In India, hiring a cook, housekeeper, or nanny is relatively inexpensive and commonplace, providing them with an extra 15-20 hours a week. This extra time is a luxury that working couples in the US can seldom afford due to the high cost of labor. While they acknowledge the ethical concerns around cheap labor in India, the convenience it offers is undeniable.
2. Traffic: Chaos vs. Organized Congestion
Traffic in India, while not necessarily worse than in bustling American cities like New York or San Francisco, is certainly more unpredictable. The couple describes Indian traffic as chaotic, with frequent lane changes and honking being the norm. Unlike the more regulated traffic flow in the US, where rules are generally adhered to, Indian roads present a daily challenge that requires patience and adaptability.
3. Digital Convenience: India Takes the Lead
When it comes to digital convenience, India surpasses the US in many ways. Thanks to the rapid growth of quick commerce platforms, Indians can have everything from groceries to makeup delivered within minutes. While the US has services like Instacart and DoorDash, the intra-city logistics in India are far superior, making everyday tasks quicker and more efficient.
4. Personal Connections: Building Deeper Bonds in India
The couple also highlighted cultural differences in how personal connections are formed. In the US, they found it challenging to forge deep relationships beyond casual meetups and professional interactions. In contrast, India’s more community-oriented culture fosters closer and more meaningful connections. This cultural shift has been a welcome change for the couple, allowing them to feel more integrated and supported in their day-to-day lives.
5. Digital Payments: UPI vs. Apple Pay
India’s digital payments infrastructure, particularly the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), is a standout feature when compared to Apple Pay in the US. While both offer seamless user experiences, UPI’s government-backed platform means that transactions are free, unlike Apple Pay, where a percentage of the transaction fee goes to private companies. This difference makes digital transactions in India more accessible and widespread.
6. Orderly Queues: A Rare Sight in India
One thing the couple misses about the US is the concept of orderly queues. In India, lines at counters, coffee shops, security checks, and quick-service restaurants can often be chaotic and frustrating. The lack of orderly queues is a stark contrast to the US, where people tend to form lines more systematically, contributing to a smoother experience in public spaces.
7. Food: A Delightful Diversity in Both Countries
Both countries offer unique culinary delights, making this comparison a tie. While the couple enjoys the variety of Indian cuisine, including dosas and biryanis, they sometimes miss the assortment of cheese, bread, and desserts available in the US. Each country has its own food culture that is rich and diverse, catering to different tastes and preferences.
8. Outdoor Activities: The US Has the Edge
For those who love the outdoors, the US has a clear advantage over India. With its well-maintained national parks, hiking trails, and beaches, the US offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. In contrast, India’s outdoor scene is more limited, and the couple notes that those who are passionate about hiking, biking, or frequenting beaches may find themselves longing for the outdoor experiences that the US offers.
9. LGBTQ-Friendly Environments: A Gap to Bridge
India still has a long way to go in terms of LGBTQ acceptance compared to the US. While there are urban pockets in India that are more progressive, widespread acceptance is still lacking. The couple hopes to see significant change in the next five years, but for now, the US remains more LGBTQ-friendly, with broader acceptance and rights for the community.
10. Job Market: Different Challenges in Both Countries
Lastly, the couple touched on the job markets in both countries. While it is possible to secure a job in India, finding a high-paying position that affords a lifestyle comparable to the US can be challenging. On the other hand, while the US job market is competitive, it offers higher salaries and more opportunities for career advancement, especially in specialized fields like technology and engineering.
Conclusion
Nayrhit and Rishita’s observations provide a valuable perspective on the contrasting lifestyles in the US and India. Their journey highlights that each country has its own set of advantages and challenges, and the decision to move is deeply personal. For those contemplating a move back to India, their insights offer a candid look at what to expect and how to navigate the transition.
