She moved to Paris but after 3 years felt more Indian than before. What changed her?

The user admitted that back home, Indian culture felt like an everyday norm, blending seamlessly into life. But after relocating, they began noticing just how much they missed the little things—especially food. Despite exploring a variety of international cuisines, nothing quite matched the richness of Indian flavors. The spices, the depth of taste, and the unique experience of every dish made them realise how special Indian food truly is. They also frequently corrected misconceptions, such as the idea that all Indian dishes are just “curry.”

Felt more patriotic

Music was another unexpected revelation. Though their Punjabi heritage never played a big role in their playlist while in India, living in Paris changed that completely. Now, Punjabi songs are their go-to for energy and nostalgia, helping them reconnect with a part of their culture they had previously overlooked.

Their growing sense of patriotism also took them by surprise. On a recent visit to India, they attended the Red Fort Light and Sound Show and were moved to tears by the powerful retelling of India’s history—from Shah Jahan’s vision to the nation’s struggles and triumphs.
The post ended with a question to fellow NRIs—has moving abroad strengthened their connection to India, or do they feel more detached? The response was overwhelming, with many sharing similar experiences of rediscovering their cultural identity after leaving home.

Internet reacts

A discussion on Reddit sparked varied perspectives from NRIs about their evolving relationship with