‘Chaos Felt Normal in India’: NRI’s Viral Video Sparks Debate on European vs. Indian Lifestyle
An eye-opening perspective on lifestyle shifts has emerged from an Indian expat, Lakshay Arora, who now resides in Austria. His viral Instagram video has stirred discussions across social media, as he candidly shared how moving to Europe forced him to unlearn certain norms he had once accepted as ‘normal’ in India.
Reassessing the Norm: A Cultural Wake-Up Call
“I realised that life in India normalised a lot of toxicity,” Lakshay remarked in his video caption, sparking both resonance and resistance from viewers. His thoughts provide a fascinating lens through which to examine the contrasting lifestyles between the two regions.
A Distinct Vibe: Work Culture and Life Balance
One significant takeaway from Lakshay’s experience is the refreshing work culture in Europe. He emphasised that, “The lifestyle here prioritises leisure time and reasonable working hours,” contrasting this with the often unrealistic job expectations prevalent in India. This revelation has stirred a sense of curiosity and envy among many viewers who long for a similar balance.
- European Approach: Emphasis on work-life balance, leisure, and manageable workloads.
- Indian Landscape: Prolonged hours and often overwhelming expectations.
Infrastructure: The Great Divide
Lakshay’s observations extended to infrastructure and public services, where he noted stark differences. “Street harassment, noise, and air pollution were all part of my childhood in India,” he said, further illustrating this contrast. He praised Europe’s public transport systems, calling them “clean, efficient, and always on time,” in comparison to India’s overcrowded and chaotic experiences.
Safety: A Sense of Security
Safety was another crucial factor highlighted by Lakshay. “Walking around at night in Vienna gives me peace of mind,” he stated. The calm and balanced pace of life in Vienna stands in sharp contrast to the fast-paced chaos that characterises many Indian cities.
Key Differences: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Through his reflections, Lakshay delineated the differences between the European and Indian lifestyles, making it easier for viewers to grasp the nuances:
European Lifestyle:
- Work-life balance prioritising leisure and reasonable hours.
- Efficient, clean, and punctual public transportation.
- Lower pollution levels and more green spaces.
- Enhanced personal safety, allowing for leisurely night strolls.
- Stronger healthcare systems, including unemployment benefits and comprehensive social services.
- Greater privacy and independence in social interactions.
Indian Lifestyle:
- Longer working hours often intertwined with unrealistic expectations.
- Overcrowded public transportation systems that struggle with efficiency.
- Higher pollution levels, both air and noise, especially in urban centres.
- Heightened concerns regarding street harassment and crime in certain areas.
- Limited access to social security and insurance benefits, affecting quality of life.
- Frequent intrusions into personal matters, impacting individual independence.
The Online Reactions: Support and Dissent
Lakshay’s commentary resonated deeply with many, igniting conversations around lifestyle preferences. One Instagram user enthusiastically declared, “I’m going on vacation for 3 weeks, and my supervisors told me not to check my emails!” They highlighted an impressive quality of life with a local AQI of 20 compared to 357 in their Indian hometown.
Conversely, not everyone agreed with Lakshay’s views. One critic replied, “Once you leave, just leave. Stop justifying it. Frankly, no one here cares.” This dissent underscores the complexity of the perspectives surrounding the challenges and benefits of life in India versus Europe.
Conclusion: What Can We Learn?
Lakshay Arora’s reflections on the contrast in lifestyles serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of life experiences. His insights call upon us to reflect on what aspects of our everyday lives we might want to reassess and potentially unlearn. Whether we thrive in the chaos of Indian cities or find tranquillity in European streets, the discussions sparked by his candid observations prompt us to consider our own values and priorities in life.
Further Reading
- Explore the Work-Life Balance in Europe
- Public Transport Innovations Across Nations
- The Importance of Safety in Urban Living
In this vibrant discussion of life across continents, what side do you find yourself on? Share your thoughts in the comments!
