Nayrhit and Rishita Das, an IITian couple who spent several years in the United States before deciding to return to India in 2023, have shared their observations on the differences between the two nations in an “honest compilation” on social media. The couple settled in Bengaluru, a city known for its vibrant tech industry, where Nayrhit is the founder of Gushwork and Rishita is an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering at IISc Bengaluru.
One of the first differences the couple noticed was the work culture in the US compared to India. Nayrhit, who worked at a tech startup in San Francisco, noted that the US emphasizes a strong work-life balance, with employees often leaving work by 5 PM and weekends generally free from work-related tasks. In contrast, Rishita found that in India, especially in tech hubs like Bengaluru, work hours can be longer, and the boundary between work and personal life is often blurred.
The couple also observed a significant difference in public infrastructure between the two countries. The US, with its well-maintained roads, efficient public transport, and reliable utilities, provided a stark contrast to the challenges they faced in India. Despite being a major city, Bengaluru still struggles with traffic congestion, inconsistent public transport, and frequent power outages.
Healthcare systems in the US and India also vary greatly. While healthcare in the US is expensive but highly advanced, with a focus on preventive care, India offers more affordable healthcare but with inconsistent quality and less emphasis on preventive care. Nayrhit and Rishita appreciated the quality of medical facilities in the US and the emphasis on regular health check-ups.
The couple found a difference in the education systems as well. The US education system encourages creativity and critical thinking from an early age, while the Indian education system is more exam-oriented, with a strong emphasis on rote learning and academic performance. Rishita, who worked as a teacher in California, admired the focus on holistic development in the US.
Social interactions and community life also differ significantly between the two countries. In the US, Nayrhit and Rishita experienced a more individualistic society where personal space is highly valued, while in India, they found a more collectivist culture with spontaneous visits from friends and family being common.
Environmental consciousness, food culture, pace of life, digital infrastructure, and the ease and affordability of domestic help were among the other differences the couple observed between the US and India. These observations offer valuable insights for anyone considering a move between these two countries, highlighting the unique advantages and challenges of living in each. Nayrhit and Rishita’s experience living in both countries has given them a unique perspective that they have shared with the world through their social media post.
