Indian Traditions To Keep Living Abroad
Indian Traditions To Keep Abroad became a big part of my life after moving to the U.S. at 13. While my surroundings changed completely, certain small traditions stayed with me. They weren’t big or obvious, but they kept my connection to India alive every single day.
These are four traditions I hold on to even years after moving abroad, and I don’t see myself ever letting them go.
1. Saving Old Bollywood Songs
Some songs are more than music — they’re memories locked in a melody. Before we moved, my uncle bought a couple of CDs for me with Bollywood movies and songs. I must’ve watched and listened to them hundreds of times.
Even now, years later, I still play those same old tracks on long drives, on rainy days, or when I’m missing home a little too much. Each song brings back the smell of monsoon rain, crowded markets, and noisy family get-togethers. Living abroad changes many things, but the emotions in those songs never fade. They’re my time machine back to India whenever I need it.
2. Using “Uncle” and “Aunty” With Desi Families
In the U.S., it feels normal to call everyone by their first name — even people decades older than you. But with other Indian families, I can’t imagine doing that. Saying “Uncle” and “Aunty” feels natural, a sign of respect that was ingrained in me growing up.
Sometimes, it surprises people here or makes them smile because it’s not common. But for me, it’s more than just a word — it’s carrying forward the way I was raised, even when everything else around me is different.
Culture shock is real when you first move. Read my experience in Culture Shock I Didn’t Expect After Moving Abroad.
3. Sharing Food Without Thinking Twice
Food in India has always been about community. You don’t just eat alone; you share with everyone around you, whether you know them well or not. Even abroad, this habit sticks.
At school, I was that kid who always offered a bite of my lunch, even when others didn’t. At home, we never plate meals separately — everyone digs in together. Sharing food isn’t just polite; it’s how we show love and build connections, no matter what country we live in.
4. Keeping Indian Snacks Stocked at Home
No matter where we live, our kitchen will always have Parle-G biscuits, namkeen, or a jar of spicy achar tucked away somewhere. These snacks don’t just fill hunger; they fill a gap that distance creates.
Even after years abroad, opening a packet of Indian snacks feels like opening a little piece of home. It brings back evenings with family, chai breaks, and that warm, familiar feeling that nothing outside India can replace.
Final Thoughts
Moving abroad changes the way you live, speak, and even think. But traditions like these are my anchor. They remind me where I come from and keep a part of India alive in my everyday life. These small habits may not seem like much, but they carry memories, love, and identity that I’ll never give up — no matter where I go. Ultimately, these Indian Traditions To Keep Abroad remind me where I come from and keep my culture alive, no matter how many years I live overseas.
For more about balancing life abroad with your heritage, visit Holding On While Letting Go.
