Whats it gonna be? My India or My America

Yeah, yeah...I am back to my favorite topic of all time, whether to settle in India or US. In my mind there are no 2 answers, it has to be India. Yet enummerable examples of Indian born immigrants who were unsuccessful in going back lie before me. Will I be able to defy the laws, take the tougher road and find myself back in an exciting and enjoyable life in India...It remains to be seen...But horror stories and hilarious realities of life do make this decision a life-altering one. For all practical purposes life in the US is very easily comfortable, intellectually challenging yet socially dull and boring. On the other hand, life in India is not that easy, can be made workwise stimulating by personal determination, if desired and is socially very lively and fun.

A well known Indian author R K Narayan had this to say on the issue. I am quoting a few lines from his article, the complete article can be found at the link given below.

ENNUI
(Article: My America, Author: R.K. Narayan, Source: October 1985 issue of Frontline)

"On a week-end he drives his family fifty miles or more towards another Indian family to eat an Indian dinner, discuss Indian politics, or tax problems (for doctors particularly this is a constant topic of conversation, being in the highest income bracket). There is monotony in this pattern of life. so mechanical and standardized.

In this individual, India has lost an intellectual or an expert; but it must not be forgotten that the expert has lost India too, which is a more serious loss in the final reckoning.

The quality of life in India is different. In spite of all its deficiencies, irritations, lack of material comforts and amenities, andgeneral confusion, Indian life builds up an inner strength. It is through subtle inexplicable influences (through religion, family ties, and human relationships in general). Let us call them psychological "inputs" to use a modern terminology, which cumulatively sustain and lend variety and richness to existence. Building imposing Indian temples in America, installing our gods therein and importing Indian priests to perform the puja and festivals, are only imitative of Indian existence and could have only a limited value. Social and religious assemblies at the temples (in America) might mitigate boredom but only temporarily. I have lived as a guest for extended periods in many Indian homes in America and have noticed the ennui that descends on a family when they are stuck at home.

Children growing up in America present a special problem. They have to develop themselves on a shallow foundation without a cultural basis, either Indian or American. Such children are ignorant of India and without the gentleness and courtesy and respect for parents, which forms the basic training for a child in an Indian home, unlike the American upbringing whereby a child is left alone to discover for himself the right code of conduct. Aware of his child's ignorance of Indian life, the Indian parent tries to cram into the child's little head all possible information during an 'Excursion Fare' trip to the mother country."

Also read The X = X + 1 Syndrome by unknown author!