As an NRI (Non-Residential Indian), living in a foreign land can be a whirlwind of novel experiences, opportunities, and challenges. While this new life has its own charm and excitement, there are times when a sense of nostalgia sweeps over, taking us back to our roots, to our homeland – India.
There are countless things to miss about India, but the emotional connect we have with our friends, family, and the unique essence of our homeland tops the list. Many a times I have been asked as to what is it that I miss about India the most and my answer has always been these three things; My Friends, My Family and the Emotional Connect. I may sound cliche’ but I feel that the emotional connect or the friendships outside India is very different. Infact I feel that the emotional connect the way we have in India is completely missing outside its borders. Everytime I am asked this, I go back in those memory lanes of my life in india. The ease of meeting frineds or families or even staying in touch was so easy. Impromptu plans and what not. From where I am today as an NRI, everything needs to be planned and worked out, its not that easy. I am a firm believer in the fact that “Jeena Yahan Marna Yahan, iske siwa Jaana Kahan”, so ultimately I will come back to my homeland but till then I have to live up with this. This blog post aims to encapsulate the longing that many NRIs feel for their home country, focusing on the profound emotional ties that we have with our friends, families, and the rich cultural fabric of India.
#The Bond of Friendship
Friendship in India is not just about sharing a laugh or two over a cup of coffee. It’s about a profound sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that weaves people together, irrespective of their backgrounds. Friends in India stand by each other through thick and thin, making the journey of life less daunting and more rewarding. As an NRI, I sorely miss the late-night chats over chai, impromptu plans, festival celebrations, and the joy of simply being in the company of friends who feel like family.
#The Comfort of Family
Being away from family is perhaps the hardest part of being an NRI. In India, family is not just the nuclear unit of parents and siblings but extends to a large network of uncles, aunts, cousins, grandparents, and sometimes even neighbors who become an integral part of the family. The warmth of our mother’s hugs, the wisdom in our father’s advice, the playful banter with siblings, and the tales of our grandparents – these are things we miss every day. The festivals, which are celebrated with much fervor and enthusiasm in India, feel incomplete without our families. The joy of togetherness during Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, and numerous other festivals is something that no video call can replicate.
#The Emotional Connect
The emotional connect extends beyond friends and family to the very essence of life in India. The vibrancy and colors of our festivals, the rhythmic beats of our music, the richness of our languages, the aroma of our spices, the hustle and bustle of our local markets – everything about India pulls at the heartstrings of an NRI. The sense of community and togetherness that’s inherent to our culture, the joy of sharing meals with neighbors, the solidarity in times of crisis – these are things that leave a lasting impression on our hearts.
Additionally, the sense of belongingness that one feels in India is irreplaceable. The diversity of India, where different cultures, religions, and languages coexist harmoniously, makes it a unique country. It’s in this diversity that we find unity, and it’s this unity in diversity that we miss deeply.
To summarize, Living abroad offers a plethora of new experiences and opportunities, broadening horizons, and contributing to personal growth. Yet, the emotional connect with our homeland, the bonds of friendship, and the comfort of family are things that we, as NRIs, miss the most about India. It’s these bonds and emotional ties that keep our roots alive in our hearts, no matter where we are in the world.
As we navigate through our lives in foreign lands, these memories from India continue to shape us, reminding us of the values, traditions, and love that are deeply rooted within us.
However, it’s important to note that despite the longing and nostalgia, being an NRI also provides a unique perspective. Living in a different culture allows us to appreciate and learn from the diversity around us. We gain a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life. This multicultural exposure broadens our horizons, fosters empathy and tolerance, and enriches our personal growth.
While we miss the emotional connect with India, it’s essential to find ways to stay connected. Thanks to technology, we can bridge the physical distance through video calls, social media, and online platforms. We can celebrate festivals virtually with our loved ones, share stories, and keep the bond alive, albeit in a different way.
Additionally, being an NRI gives us the opportunity to form new relationships and create a support system in our adopted country. We meet people from different walks of life, forge new friendships, and build a sense of community in our new surroundings. These connections help us navigate the challenges of living away from home and provide a sense of belonging in our current environment.
In conclusion, as NRIs, we cherish the memories, friendships, and emotional ties we have with India. The bond with our friends, family, and the cultural fabric of our homeland is deeply ingrained in our hearts. While we miss the warmth and togetherness of India, our experiences abroad also offer invaluable growth and learning opportunities. It’s a delicate balance between embracing the new and cherishing the old, keeping our emotional connect with India alive while embracing the opportunities and experiences that come with being an NRI.
Mindful Musings 