Do Indians Settle in the UK and Miss India?
The journey of Indian expatriates settling in the UK is a mixed bag of experiences, emotions, and nuanced thoughts about their homeland, India. While many embrace the opportunities and lifestyle in the UK, the memory of their roots and the nostalgia for India often creep in, leading to varied feelings about returning home.
Factors Influencing Desire to Return to India
Cultural Connection: Many Indians maintain strong ties to their cultural heritage, which includes family festivals and traditions. For these expatriates, the longing to return to the roots of their culture is palpable. Celebrations and festivals like Diwali, Holi, and other regional occasions can evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and can make the desire to return home a strong one.
Tie to Family: Family connections play a crucial role in the decision to return or stay. Grown children often miss the warmth of their family setting and the emotional ties they share with their parents, siblings, and other relatives. The desire to be closer to family can be a significant factor in considering a return.
Economic Opportunities: The lure of emerging job opportunities, particularly in sectors like technology and entrepreneurship, can drive individuals to consider moving back to India. There is a growing recognition that India is a hub for innovation and start-ups, and many expatriates see this as an opportunity to contribute back to their country.
Quality of Life: While the UK offers a different quality of life, aspects like community and social networks in India can be more fulfilling for some. The close-knit nature of families and communities in India can provide a sense of belonging and support that expatriates may find missing in the UK.
Immigration Challenges: Visa regulations and the challenges of settling in a new country can also influence thoughts about returning. The administrative complexities and cultural adjustments can make the UK seem less appealing over time.
Individual Experiences and Theories
While some Indians do feel a strong pull towards their homeland, the desire to return varies widely among individuals. Many find a sense of contentment and fulfillment in their current lives in the UK.
Social and Personal Factors: The majority of expatriates are not forced to stay in the UK. They are free to leave and return whenever they choose. Moreover, life in the UK often provides better quality of life, better salaries, and a more relaxed environment compared to the densely populated and often stressful life in India.
Cultural Value of Money: Many Indians, regardless of generation, prioritize better living conditions and financial stability over emotional ties to their homeland. For Generation X, Millennials, and even some Gen Z individuals, the allure of higher income and a better quality of life is often a deciding factor in their decision to remain in the UK.
For some, the reality of life in India is stark. Greed and corruption are pervasive in many parts of the country. Despite this, the expatriates do not blame their compatriots, recognizing that their decisions should not reflect on universal behavior.
Personal Choices and Fulfillment: Some individuals, like me, have left India by choice and have no intention of returning. After starting my Masters in Canada, I have only visited India a handful of times. Life in the UK is much better than in India, and the thought of returning is not appealing. The decision to leave was made in early adulthood, and the circumstances were vastly different from those of some of my friends who struggle with homesickness.
Conclusion
The sentiment towards returning to India is complex and varies among individuals. While some Indians do experience a deep sense of longing and nostalgia for their homeland, the decision to stay in the UK is influenced by a myriad of factors, from cultural and familial ties to economic opportunities and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, the choice to remain in the UK is driven by a desire for a better life and a sense of independence and contentment.