The Indian Experience

Final excerpt from the book Living and Working in India.

In recent years there has been a vast increase in the number of people who go to India, not for a holiday, but to live and work in a fascinating country that is emerging as a major world economy. This book is a product of our visit to India in 2001 when we travelled there for work.

The reasons for working in India are manifold and worth reviewing. Although your initial salary may be a little lower than it would be in the West, you can often start work in India at a higher position of responsibility and quickly gain valuable corporate experience. Moreover, while your starting salary may be lower than in a Western company, it might well translate to a higher purchasing power and standard of living. One must also remember that wages in India are increasing, while in some professions in the West, salaries are actually decreasing in real terms. And, while some Indian cities are still developing in terms of amenities, you will frequently find that Indian companies often have better facilities than those you are used to in the West!

On a cultural level, nothing can quite match the vitality and sheer human experience of living in India. India’s cities are lively, colourful and vibrant – although it may take a few weeks to get adjusted. Shops stay open late and there is no shortage of manpower for household services. Because English is widely used in newspapers, books, radio stations and television, your cultural transition may be easier than in other countries.

Indians are a friendly and gregarious people who are more than willing to learn about other nationalities and cultures and so you will never be short of company. If you are interested in history or archaeology, India will provide you a live laboratory. Indian civilization dates back thousands of years, and each empire or conqueror has left a unique historical imprint. This means that ancient Hindu shrines co-exist with Islamic-influenced Mughal architecture, imposing gateway arches from the British Raj and modern buildings. India is also a world leader in terms of music, cinema, literature, mythology and religion, so the depth of your cultural experience is practically limitless.

In addition, the friendships and connections that you form while working in India can make even a short stay there a life-changing experience. In fact, once India gets ‘under your skin’, you will find yourself returning to the subcontinent again and again, or even settling there. The easygoing nature and warmth of the Indian people is as hard to resist as the spicy Indian cuisine, and you may soon find the sedate pace of life in the West hard to re-adjust to. Don’t be surprised if you return home with a wistful longing for India and start to feel confused about which country you really call home!

Living and Working in India will ease the transition between Western and Indian cultures, giving a wealth of advice in terms of language, culture, lifestyle, education, health, housing, working practices and regulations. The guidebook useful for both the preparation of your visit to India and throughout your stay.

Cancervive

We have committed to donate the entire proceeds of royalties from this book to Cancervive, India, a small regional charity based in Mangalore. Cancervive, India provides care and support to children with terminal cancer at hospitals around the Mangalore district.

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