How Not to Be "That" Indian Immigrant
Being a Better Desi Abroad. A humorous but honest guide to thriving (not just surviving) as an Indian immigrant in the West.
In this podcast, Krish discusses the importance of civic sense and cultural awareness for Indian immigrants in the U.S. He shares personal observations and guidelines to help individuals assimilate better into American society while maintaining respect for local customs and laws. The conversation covers various aspects of civic behavior, including public conduct, professional etiquette, and the significance of honesty and respect in community interactions.
Takeaways
Civic sense is crucial for immigrants to integrate into society.
Understanding cultural differences can prevent misunderstandings.
Littering is not acceptable; always use trash bins.
Honking inappropriately can disrupt public order.
Personal hygiene is important in public spaces.
Speaking English in professional settings is a sign of respect.
Respecting lines and public order is essential.
Do not block aisles or rows in public places.
Honesty in interviews is vital for professional integrity.
Civic engagement enhances community relationships.
Podcast
Summary
A friendly, slightly sarcastic guide to being a decent, well-adjusted immigrant (or human, really) in the U.S!
🧼 Cleanliness & Hygiene
Don’t litter. It’s not a suggestion. It’s the bare minimum.
Your nose may be immune to your body odor, but the rest of us aren’t. Shower. Deodorize. Cologne if you must. Thank us later.
If you finish eating at a fast-casual place, don’t treat the table like a landfill. Trash cans exist — use them.
Return that unwanted grocery item to its original spot. The ketchup doesn’t belong next to the frozen peas.
🚘 Driving & Public Etiquette
Don’t honk like you’re conducting a traffic orchestra. Yes, even on Indian streets in America.
Left lane is for passing. Not for sightseeing at 45 mph.
Don’t park in fire lanes unless you’re literally on fire.
15-minute parking spots are not meant for your 3-hour Costco run.
Supermarket aisles are not family reunion zones. Don’t block the whole aisle.
🧍♂️Standing in Line & Space Awareness
Lines are sacred. Cutting in line isn’t bold — it’s just rude.
Reserving 7 seats in a theater for your extended family? You’re not hosting a wedding.
Push your chair back in after sitting. It’s not a big ask.
🗣️ Communication & Language
Speak softly in public. You’re not addressing a political rally.
In professional settings, speak English. Not because your language isn’t awesome — just because it’s the norm.
If someone can’t understand your accent, don’t get defensive. Slow down, enunciate. It’s communication, not karaoke.
🧠 Professionalism & Work Ethic
Don’t lie in interviews. We all know you didn’t “build Twitter in college.”
Don’t get a friend to “help” during interviews. It’s not a heist.
Paid for 8 hours? Work 8 hours. Shocking concept, we know.
Show up on time. Fashionably late is not a thing at work meetings.
Don’t be Newman from Seinfeld. Hating your job is fine; doing nothing about it is not.
🤝 Social Integration & Respect
Include people outside your cultural bubble. If you wanted only Indian friends, why emigrate?
You’re not more important than everyone else. Stop acting like you are.
Assimilate. That doesn’t mean lose yourself. Just don’t act like you’re on a permanent tourist visa.
💵 Tipping & Money Etiquette
Don’t tip $0.13 on a $13.87 bill. Tip fairly. People live off that.
Don’t exploit return policies like they’re loopholes in the Matrix.
Don’t shoo away people asking for money. A polite “no” works just fine.
🧘 Attitude & Ego Check
Being Indian doesn’t automatically make you a math genius. Or special.
America doesn’t “need you.” You chose to move. Stay humble.
Don’t act like your Ivy League degree is a personality. Cool story, still doesn’t excuse bad behavior.
Don’t be nice only when you need something. That’s networking. We’re talking about decency.
🌍 Cultural & Social Sensitivity
Religious and caste biases? Leave them at the airport. Illegal, unethical, unnecessary.
Don’t poke the political/religious bear. It’s not a debate club.
Not everyone who’s rude is racist. Sometimes people are just jerks. Happens.
🌯 Miscellaneous But Vital
Don’t get offended when someone roasts Indian street food. You’ve watched those videos. You know.
Cultural appropriation? Pick your battles. If Norway rocks a lehenga, breathe. Pants weren’t born in Chennai either.
If you leave your chair in the middle of a hallway or meeting room, you’re the problem.
Respect ALL jobs. The sandwich artist at Potbelly is working just as hard — maybe harder — than you.
You’re not better than anyone. Period.
Your religion and caste? Totally valid — and totally irrelevant to the rest of us.
Finally: civic sense is sexy. Master it. It’s the true flex.
