Journey Home

Being a street-smart Indian kid with a boarding school upbringing across Kolkata, New Delhi, and Mumbai, I reveled in the vibrant chaos of India's streets. Kolkata, the cultural capital, laid the foundation for my love affair with the diverse tapestry of India. From sleeper class train rides to navigating DTDC buses, the iconic double-deckers of Mumbai's BEST transport system became a favorite, providing a means of travel and a front-row seat to the daily drama that unfolded on the streets below. The Jhankar autos with the Dinchak latest Bollywood music were my then "YouTube" insights into the latest music. The public transport experiences evolved into a symphony of sounds and colors, an integral part of my upbringing that would later shape my outlook on life.

I never wanted to live overseas, but life always has its plans! In 2001, I got married and moved to Silicon Valley. The energy of the place enveloped me, offering newfound freedoms as a newlywed. Driving my car, launching my own company, and embracing personal style without judgment – I was the master of my destiny.

Driving my car fearlessly (after five failed attempts at procuring my driver's license), launching my own company, choosing my attire without societal judgments, learning from others, attending concerts, and traveling – Silicon Valley became the canvas on which I painted the first strokes of my adult life. Life unfolded in a tiny 1.5-bedroom apartment that lacked a dishwasher but brimmed with shared responsibilities, cozy evenings, and the excitement of saving for our first home.

The turning point came in 2005 when my husband's deep-rooted patriotism led us back to India, specifically to Chennai. Despite initial hesitations, Chennai unfolded as a welcoming city, shattering stereotypes. Safe, clean, and vibrant, the city embraced us, offering an environment rich in intellect, arts, and culture. What struck me most was the ease of communication – everyone spoke English, and the abundance of house help made life feel like a seamless dance.

Subsequent relocations took us to Singapore and Jaipur, each bringing its own set of challenges and triumphs. We lived a picture-perfect penthouse life in Singapore, a city-state epitomizing perfection. Culturally rich, economically vibrant, and close to India, yet far enough to provide personal space, Singapore was a haven.

2011, the narrative took an unexpected twist as my husband insisted on relocating permanently to India. A Taurean's persistence prevailed, and we found ourselves in Jaipur, living with his parents. My inability to accept this change became a significant challenge, and I hated the first two years of my life in India. I missed Singapore daily, living in the shadows of my past life and hoping for its return.

However, the day we relinquished our Singapore PR, a shift occurred within me. I accepted my stay in India and turned the narrative around. I launched a new venture, gave my heart to it, worked tirelessly, enjoyed watching my children grow, made new friends, and settled into the Indian way of life. Once again, I started to appreciate India's small joys – the joy of spontaneous get-togethers, the community dropping everything to stand by you when you need them, and somehow managing each day living on the edge as you drive through the streets.

Each day in India is a miracle, an intricate dance of chaos and harmony. E-commerce and Amazon have transformed the landscape, making life more accessible. Bright minds are now thinking of entrepreneurship rather than just jobs. My children have blossomed, learning to do more with fewer resources and developing a deep empathy for those around them.

India evokes empathy because it starkly contrasts the privileged and the less fortunate. It taught me simplicity and a love for yoga, imparting a deep understanding of life's true purpose. Today, I reflect and feel blessed for my global life and perspective, which places me in the right city at specific points in my life and ultimately brings me back to one of the best cities in India – Jaipur.

If you are on the cusp of deciding to move to India, connect with me. I have been through it all and share my perspective with you. There has never been a better time to be in India and experience the magic – a land that embraces you in its being and love for others.

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