My 12 Lessons From India

Almost a year has passed since my first trip to India—one of the most memorable and transformational journeys I have ever taken, made possible with the help and support of my colleagues and friends in Andhra Pradesh. Since returning, I’ve been meaning to write an article, or perhaps even attempt a short book, about what I learned in India. However, as usual, the daily grind delayed my plans. Over time, I convinced myself that this delay wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. Perhaps giving my impressions time to settle would allow me to write something more balanced and reflective.

With the semester now nearing its end, I finally found the time to sit down and write—a way to preserve my own memories and, hopefully, provide insights for those planning to travel to India or simply curious about this fascinating country. This article reflects my subjective impressions rather than hard facts or statistics and represents no one’s opinions but my own.

What I Learned About India

1. India is Big

Yes, you probably know that India, with its population of nearly 1.5 billion people, is the most populous country in the world. But experiencing India’s vastness in person is overwhelming. Everything feels big—cities, roads, streets, buildings, and even the crowds of people.

During my trip, I stayed in what most Indians would consider a small town. I arrived on a Sunday and was fortunate to be close to the beach. Initially, the sheer number of people, vehicles, and noise was so overwhelming that I didn’t dare venture out of my hotel on the first day. I sat in my room, looking out of the window, trying to absorb everything I was seeing. Thankfully, things calmed down after the weekend, and I began venturing out twice a day—once in the morning and once late at night. Over time, I grew more comfortable navigating the bustling streets.

2. India is Diverse

India is a land of extraordinary diversity, woven together by its many languages, cultures, and religions. The country officially recognizes 22 languages, and thousands of dialects are spoken across its regions. It is the birthplace of major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, while also embracing faiths from outside of India, like Islam and Christianity.

Genetically, Indians are incredibly diverse too. Many people who might appear Chinese, Arab, African, or European are, in fact, Indian. For example, did you know that Freddie Mercury and Nikki Haley are both of Indian descent? Or did you hear about Vijay Jojo Chokal-Ingam, an Indian-American activist, being able to pass as a Black man?

Geographically, India’s diversity is equally striking, ranging from the towering Himalayas in the north to the tropical coastlines in the south, from the arid Thar Desert to the lush forests of the Northeast. The country’s cuisine, music, dance, and attire change noticeably as you travel across regions, making India feel more like a continent than a single country.

Despite this diversity, India exists in relative harmony. While challenges related to tolerance and inclusion persist, tolerance seems to be deeply ingrained in Indian culture, not merely mandated by law.

3. India is Young

Although India has a history spanning thousands of years, it is a young country demographically. Over 65% of its population is under the age of 35, creating immense potential for economic growth, innovation, and development. However, this youthfulness also presents challenges, including intense competition for jobs and educational opportunities.

4. Indians are Friendly

Indians are among the friendliest and most hospitable people I have encountered. Having worked with Indians in the UAE and the US, I already had a positive impression of them. But the warmth and generosity I experienced in India exceeded my expectations.

From the immigration officer who helped me fill out my form to a colleague who insisted (despite my protests) on carrying my bags, everyone went out of their way to make me feel welcome. I often joked that I wasn’t sure if I was treated more like royalty or a firstborn child. This hospitality wasn’t limited to my status as a foreigner—it seemed to be a cultural norm. Even in corporate environments, I noticed how colleagues treated each other with genuine care and respect.

It's hard to travel to India and not make any friends.

5. Indians Value Education

Education holds immense value in India. Young people don’t need to be persuaded about its importance; they actively seek opportunities to advance their education. Given the fierce competition for jobs, this focus on education is not surprising.

Many Indian students aspire to study abroad, viewing education in Western countries as a pathway to better opportunities. In response, many North American institutions are now looking to India to boost enrollment.

While the Indian education system faces challenges, the government has introduced significant reforms and resources to improve its quality and global rankings. Universities are increasingly focusing on internationalization, attracting foreign students and faculty, and fostering exchange programs.

6. India's Economy is not just IT

India’s economy extends far beyond its renowned IT and BPO industries. The country also excels in such sectors as pharmaceuticals, video game development, engineering services, and animation. For instance, India is a global leader in pharmaceutical outsourcing, offering cost-efficient solutions for drug development and clinical trials. Its animation and visual effects (VFX) industry is gaining international recognition, producing high-quality content for global markets.

7. India is not as Affordable as I Thought

India’s cost of living has risen significantly, especially in large metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Rent, dining, and transportation costs in these cities are comparable to many global urban centers. Inflation and economic growth have shifted the narrative of India being an inexpensive destination.

8. Motorcycles Rule the Roads in India

Motorcycles are a staple of Indian life, symbolizing freedom and practicality. From scooters to high-end bikes, motorcycles dominate the streets. Seeing people of all ages zipping through chaotic traffic inspired me to consider getting a bike myself—much to my wife’s disapproval.

9. Trash is a Problem in India

While India has made strides in waste management, the rapid pace of urbanization and population growth pose challenges. Although many areas are well maintained, litter in scenic spots like mountaintops and beaches can be disappointing.

10. India is Very Entrepreneurial

India boasts a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, supported by government initiatives, a young workforce, and technological expertise. Cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai are becoming global hubs for innovation in sectors like fintech, health tech, renewable energy, and, of course, IT.

11. Indian Food is Delicious

Indian cuisine is diverse , spicy, and flavorful— far surpassing what I’d experienced in Indian restaurants abroad. From tender butter chicken, to delicate seafood, and to exquisite pastries—every meal was a treat. My only complaint? Some dishes were too spicy, even for someone who enjoys heat!

12. India is Open to the World

Despite its rich cultural heritage, India is remarkably outward-looking. I was surprised by how well-informed people were in India about international affairs. Many Indian organizations are successfully blending local traditions with global best practices.

Baby Bharat

The image of a giant baby girl sculpture I saw in Visakhapatnam, also known as the City of Destiny, represents my view of India—big, young, curious, full of energy, and with greeat of potential. Warm, gentle, noisy, restless, and mischievous, India, to me, is like a child with eyes wide open towards the world and its future. I sincerely wish Baby Bharat the best in pursuing her dreams.

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