Imagine giving up the country you were born in, only to regret it deeply just a year and a half later. That’s the reality for one individual who traded their Indian citizenship for Canadian nationality, only to find themselves longing to return home due to what they describe as a rising anti-Indian sentiment in Canada. The Reddit user shared their story in a post that struck a chord with many, stating, “I took Canadian citizenship about a year and a half ago and now I feel like that was the biggest mistake of my life.”

With emotions running high, the user expressed deep regret and a desire to apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, seeking advice from fellow Redditors on how to navigate this complex process. The OCI scheme, as outlined by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, allows people of Indian origin who were citizens of India on January 26, 1950, or after, to register as Overseas Citizens. But there are several exceptions and nuances to keep in mind.

As this story spread like wildfire across social media, reactions poured in from all corners. Some users shared their own experiences with racism and discrimination, while others cautioned against the realities of life in India, highlighting the challenges of work culture and infrastructure. One user, a recent Canadian citizen from South India now on the path back to India, commented, “I’m moving back for health reasons—not because of anti-India issues. I’ve never experienced racism myself.” They recounted a negative incident at work that was swiftly resolved, emphasizing that not everyone in Canada harbors prejudice.

Conversely, other comments painted a bleaker picture of corporate culture in India. One poster warned that many expatriates return to India with substantial savings to avoid financial strain while navigating the local work environment. Another urged the original poster to return, questioning whether they had personally experienced hate during their time in Canada.

The responses created an engaging dialogue, as users shared their experiences and strategies for managing expectations when moving back to India. One advised, “Remember, the grass is always greener on the side fertilized with bulls**t.” Such sentiments served as a reminder that every place, no matter how appealing it seems, comes with its own set of challenges.