Can you imagine giving up your roots only to regret it profoundly? A recent Reddit post from a Canadian citizen who once held Indian citizenship has sparked a wave of discussion about identity, belonging, and the often unrecognized challenges faced by immigrants.

This individual, who became a Canadian citizen a year and a half ago, is now reconsidering that life-altering decision. The user expressed a feeling of increasing anti-Indian sentiment in Canada, saying, “I took Canadian citizenship about a year and a half ago, and now I feel like that was the biggest mistake of my life. The increased anti-Indian sentiment I feel is only going to get worse.”

In a desperate plea for advice, the Redditor sought insights from others about how to reapply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status and what the experiences of OCI holders have been like. To clarify, the OCI scheme allows Persons of Indian Origin who were citizens of India on January 26, 1950, or could have been citizens at that time, to register as OCI. However, this path isn’t without its exceptions, leading to further complications.

As the post gained traction, the responses were varied. Some offered heartfelt stories about their own experiences, while others warned of the challenges awaiting those contemplating a return to India. One commenter shared, “I’m a recent Canadian citizen from South India, with OCI. I’m moving back to India for some time very soon, to focus on better health, not because of anti-India issues. Honestly, I never experienced any racism.”

This individual went on to describe a troubling incident at work involving a colleague but emphasized that their overall experience in Canada was positive. They reminded others that good and bad people exist everywhere, and it's essential not to generalize based on a few negative encounters.

Conversely, another commenter described the corporate culture in India as “toxic,” suggesting that many expatriates who relocate back do so with a financial safety net to avoid the stress of daily hurdles. They advised, “You can enjoy India while avoiding day-to-day hurdles if you don't have to stress about making a living.”

Yet another voice chimed in, asking the original poster if they had experienced any hate incidents in Canada, to which the OP responded that they indeed had. This exchange highlights the complex tapestry of personal experiences that color the immigrant journey.

Amidst the mixed reactions, one user provided a supportive message: “Bro, I saw your other posts. Hang in there, man. Things will get better. If you have already worked in India, you know the work culture and how to navigate it. If not, it will be an uphill battle, so just set your expectations.” It serves as a reminder that while the grass may seem greener on the other side, it often requires careful management of expectations and a willingness to adapt.