For many non-resident Indians (NRIs), the idea of returning home after years abroad carries a special emotional pull. The thought of being closer to parents, reconnecting with cultural roots, and raising children with Indian values often makes families consider leaving behind their adopted countries. But how does the reality of moving back compare to the dream?
A recent Reddit post by a Canadian NRI family who spent a year living in Gujarat, India, sheds light on this very dilemma. Their experience highlights the complex trade-offs between comfort, cost of living, and cultural adaptation when comparing life in India to life in Canada.
The Emotional Decision to Move Back
The family, who had been settled in Canada for years, decided to relocate to Navsari, Gujarat, with the goal of being closer to aging parents. Like many NRIs, they wanted to balance the conveniences of modern living with the warmth of family connections.
Dubai, with its cosmopolitan lifestyle and proximity to India, was an option. But in the end, the pull of home won. They envisioned a life where their children would grow up surrounded by grandparents and festivals while still enjoying good schools and modern amenities.
But after one year, the family concluded that expectations did not align with reality. The decision was made to return to Canada — sparking an online debate among NRIs and Indians alike.
Daily Comfort and Lifestyle Differences
One of the biggest shocks for the family was how daily routines differed between India and Canada.
1. Air Quality and Health Concerns
The family noted that poor air quality in India caused persistent health discomfort. Seasonal pollution, dust, and traffic emissions made simple outdoor activities unpleasant. In Canada, by contrast, they were accustomed to clean air and better environmental standards, which significantly impacted their overall well-being.
2. Food and Hygiene
Eating out in India, though tempting due to the variety of cuisine, came with concerns over hygiene. The family felt constant anxiety about food safety. In Canada, dining out felt more reliable because of stricter health regulations and standards.
3. Driving and Traffic
Driving was another source of daily stress. Crowded roads, frequent traffic violations, road rage, and chaotic driving patterns created an environment of unpredictability. The family compared this to Canada’s orderly traffic, where lane discipline, pedestrian safety, and adherence to rules were the norm.
4. Everyday Safety and Predictability
From walking in public spaces to interacting with strangers, the family felt Canada offered a greater sense of safety and predictability. In India, they often felt they had to stay more alert, even for small tasks like crossing the street or shopping.
Financial Realities: Costs and Taxes
One of the biggest reasons families reconsider returning to India is the economic reality.
1. Education and Childcare
The Reddit post highlighted how education and childcare in India were surprisingly expensive. Private schooling — often essential for NRIs seeking international standards — came with hefty tuition fees. Add to this the cost of extracurricular activities, and the expenses quickly piled up.
In Canada, while daycare can also be costly, public schooling is free, and the quality is often high. For many immigrant families, this makes raising children more affordable and less stressful.
2. Income Tax vs Public Services
The family expressed frustration at paying high income taxes in India without seeing proportional improvements in public infrastructure or services. In Canada, while taxes are also significant, the family felt the benefits were tangible — from free healthcare to well-maintained roads and reliable public facilities.
This gap between tax contribution and service quality was one of the deciding factors that pushed them back toward Canada.
Cultural and Social Adjustments
Beyond costs and comfort, the family also struggled with social and cultural dynamics in India.
1. Festival Noise and Crowds
While festivals in India are colorful and joyous, the constant noise, fireworks, and large gatherings felt overwhelming after years in Canada’s quieter neighborhoods. What was once nostalgic became a source of stress.
2. Social Competition and Status Displays
The family also observed a culture of competition and status signaling — whether through luxury cars, big weddings, or constant comparisons in society. After living in Canada, where equality and modesty are more common, this shift felt unsettling.
3. Concerns About Youth Culture
They expressed concerns about increasing exposure of Indian youth to gambling, drugs, and peer pressure. While this may not be universal, the perception added to their unease about raising children in that environment.
4. Social Hierarchies and Egos
The family described navigating social circles in India as tricky, with visible hierarchies and inflated egos. In contrast, they felt Canadian culture emphasized politeness, inclusivity, and more straightforward interactions.
Divided Opinions Online
The family’s candid account went viral on Reddit, drawing mixed reactions.
- Sympathetic Voices: Many NRIs related to the challenges, sharing their own stories of struggling with air quality, high costs of private education, and infrastructure issues in India. Several admitted they too eventually moved back abroad.
- Critical Responses: Others argued that the family’s view was too narrow, pointing out that India’s diversity means experiences can differ by city, state, and even neighborhood. Some felt concerns like drug abuse were exaggerated, noting that India remains less affected compared to Western nations.
This clash of opinions reflects the larger debate many NRIs face — is returning to India a step toward cultural fulfillment or a setback in lifestyle and comfort?
Canada vs India: A Side-by-Side Look
To understand why such moves succeed for some and fail for others, let’s compare the two countries across key areas.
| Factor | Life in India | Life in Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Pollution and dust common in many cities, seasonal smog issues | Generally clean air and stronger environmental policies |
| Food & Dining | Delicious variety but concerns about hygiene and food safety | Fewer options but higher hygiene standards |
| Traffic & Transport | Chaotic driving culture, limited pedestrian safety | Disciplined traffic, better public safety |
| Education | Private schooling costly, quality varies | Public schools free and often high quality |
| Healthcare | Private healthcare costly, public services overburdened | Universal healthcare system, free for residents |
| Taxes | High taxes with limited visible services | High taxes but tangible benefits (healthcare, infrastructure, welfare) |
| Culture & Society | Vibrant but sometimes overwhelming, status-driven | Inclusive, polite, less focus on status |
| Family & Community | Strong family bonds, support from extended family | Nuclear family setups, weaker extended-family support |
| Opportunities | Growing economy, entrepreneurial spirit | Stable economy, structured job market, immigrant-friendly policies |
Key Lessons for NRIs Considering a Move Back
The Reddit family’s experience highlights some important lessons for others considering the same journey:
- Be Practical, Not Just Emotional
Returning for family ties is understandable, but weigh the impact on health, finances, and lifestyle too. - Factor in Education and Healthcare
For families with children, schooling and medical care can make or break the experience. Plan for these costs upfront. - Choose Your City Wisely
Life in Tier-1 cities like Bangalore or Mumbai is very different from smaller towns. Infrastructure and lifestyle vary dramatically. - Test Before Committing
If possible, spend 6–12 months in India before making a permanent move. A trial period can help manage expectations. - Remember There’s No Perfect Option
India offers warmth, family, and cultural richness. Canada offers comfort, predictability, and public services. The choice depends on what matters most to your family.
Final Thoughts: Home vs Abroad
For NRIs, the question of living in India vs settling abroad is rarely simple. India provides emotional fulfillment, closeness to family, and cultural richness. Canada offers comfort, safety, and strong public systems.
For the Reddit family from Gujarat, the decision was clear — Canada aligned better with their long-term priorities. But for others, especially those with strong business ties or extended family networks in India, returning can still be the right move.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities, adaptability, and definition of quality of life. Whichever path you choose, it’s important to go in with eyes wide open — balancing the heart with the head.
