A 32-year-old Indian professional living in Germany has sparked discussion online after sharing his inner conflict over returning to India despite a financially stable and fulfilling life abroad. Working in the rapidly evolving AI sector, then he stated that his dilemma is not rooted in burnout or dissatisfaction with life in the West. “I actually like my job,” he wrote. “This isn’t about hating the West or escaping corporate life, it’s about life choices.”
With a few crores saved and no desire for a flashy lifestyle, he has been asking himself a question many NRIs face, “Why not return to India for a simpler, more meaningful life, especially if you’re not chasing expensive toys?.”
However, the decision is complicated. The couple is planning to have a child, and Germany’s pressure-free education system appeals to them. “I like how kids here can choose their paths without being crushed by expectations,” he noted, while also expressing concern that the relaxed pace might not keep up with the rapid global shifts in AI and tech.
Why does he want to return to India?
He admitted this is a conversation he can’t easily have in his current circle. “People get offended if you question the system. But I can’t help wondering, will my kid be left behind while others from more aggressive schooling systems surge ahead?” Beyond career and academics, the emotional pull of India, especially for raising a child close to grandparents, weighs heavy. “I never had that bond growing up. My wife did, and honestly, I’m jealous of that warmth.”
Still, returning to India isn’t a simple escape. Since he’s not from an IT hub, relocating would likely mean moving to a big city potentially re-entering the very rat race he hoped to avoid. He also acknowledged that India demands full acceptance to truly feel at peace. “And I’m not sure I’ve reached that point yet.”
‘Where is the peace of mind in India?’
Netizens flooded their opinion on the post. A user said, “Where is the peace of mind in India ? Constant sinking, pollution, Fear of aggression from political party workers in all metro cities. Fear of drowning on a highway during monsoon. Fear of damaging car in the garage in gurgaon during rain. Uncertainty of medical insurance. May be I did not get your point.”
Another noted, “Peace of mind in India ? 😭 it has to be a man writing this title lol.” “You’re on point with your thought process. People in India often complain about a lot of things, but I think once you have enough assets built up, a regular income from your FDs will give you far far far more comfortable and higher QoL than anywhere in west. You can get a remote job which may not pay great, but will be enough to prevent you from dipping into savings for daily expenses,” claimed another user.
“If you are in the AI field, then instead of thinking of moving to India, you should seriously attempt to move to the US. You’ll make a lot more money, and your kids will get get more exposure to Indian culture. Because in certain states like CA, TX, NY, there are so many Indians and consequently many Indian resources available for your kids to immerse themselves in the culture. We celebrate nearly all Indian festivals here,” advised a netizen.
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