From learning Hindi to turning vegetarian and using jet spray: American mum shares how India changed her life

Time of India

21-07-2025

Four years ago, an American mother made a bold decision that would completely reshape her daily routine, mindset, and even her wardrobe—she moved to India. Today, she says her life looks nothing like it did back in the States, and she wouldn't have it any other way. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she shared the 10 most significant changes she's experienced since settling down in India—and they go far beyond just food and fashion.One of the first things she learned after moving was how to cook Indian food. She admitted that she still has a lot to learn, but believes she is off to a great start.Another major shift came in her daily commute. In the US, she never used public transport—cars were the default. But in India, she regularly hops into cabs, rickshaws, metros, and trains, appreciating how accessible and affordable they are. Then there's her mode of transport: a scooter. In the U.S., scooters are illegal on most roads, but in India, they're a daily convenience. 'I love how easy it is to get around by scooter here,' she said.Fashion, too, has taken a desi twist. She now proudly wears Indian clothes and is working on perfecting her saree draping skills. 'I love the fashions and the feel of the clothes here,' she shared.One unexpected perk? Fresh food. 'No more week-old produce that has been trucked across the country,' she noted. Now she buys local, farm-fresh ingredients from street vendors. Her move also sparked a major dietary shift—she's now a vegetarian. And surprisingly, she thanked India's vast vegetarian options, finding the switch both easy and satisfying.Cultural integration came with its own set of challenges and triumphs. One of the most notable? Learning Hindi. She said that Hindi is hard, but she is still learning. She also praised India's education system. While private schools were far too expensive back in the U.S., she's now able to send her children to one in India—and she's thrilled with the quality of education they're receiving.Another newfound joy? Bargaining at local markets. Unlike fixed-price shopping in the U.S., she finds negotiating prices in outdoor bazaars 'just so fun.'And finally—perhaps most tellingly—she ended her list with the humble jet spray. 'I have fully adapted… and I am never going back,' she declared, calling it a far cleaner and more logical alternative to toilet paper.