An NRI who spent five years living in Canada has decided to return to India, saying the emotional toll of social isolation and the rigid structure of daily life abroad ultimately became too much to bear. The individual shared their story in a now-viral Reddit post that has sparked widespread discussion about the immigrant experience.
“After living in Canada for 5 years I just couldn’t take it anymore,” the post reads. “Social isolation, though I do have friends here, had started to get to me. It’s very hard to describe the feeling, but life just felt robotic abroad.”
The NRI said they felt that the highly structured routines in Canada left little space for spontaneity or freedom, contrasting this with what they affectionately called India’s “organized chaos.”
“Everything has to be planned and structured here,” they wrote. “Even for a grocery run, like buying rice, I need to plan a trip to Costco. In India, random encounters and spontaneous plans don’t cost an entire day. That’s what I missed.”
They added that Canada’s efficient but rigid system eventually made them feel like they had “stopped feeling human.”
Despite acknowledging India’s challenges — from cleanliness to civic issues — the NRI said the pull of familiarity, culture, and connection ultimately outweighed the drawbacks. “People may criticize India for being dirty or lacking civic sense, but I will take it with all its flaws. After all, it’s home.”
The story struck a chord online, drawing hundreds of supportive messages. Many praised the individual for choosing personal happiness over societal expectations.
“Good for you! Follow your heart,” one commenter wrote. “It shows character, and when you face things head-on, you can overcome obstacles.”
Others advised the NRI to document their feelings to help navigate any future doubts. “Every place has pros and cons. Stay where you feel happy,” another user said.
The post continues to generate debate, reflecting the complex emotions many immigrants feel as they balance opportunities abroad with the comfort and chaos of home.