The North-East Indian Identity Crisis: Living Overseas and Defying Stereotypes

As a North-East Indian living abroad, I have experienced first-hand the challenges of navigating my identity in a world where stereotypes often prevail. Growing up in the North East, which is a part in India that is often overlooked and misunderstood, I was proud of my cultural heritage and the unique traditions of my people. However, when I moved overseas, I quickly realized that the rest of the world did not share my appreciation for diversity.

 

One of the most common issues I face is the assumption that all Indians look a certain way. Many people are surprised to learn that I am from India, often asking if I am from China, Korea, or some other Asian country. Even when I explain that I am from North-East India, the confusion often persists, with people assuming that I must be mixed race or not really Indian at all. It can be frustrating to constantly have to prove my identity, especially when it feels like people are not willing to listen.

 

Another challenge is dealing with the generalizations that people have about India and Indians. Often, people have a preconceived notion of what Indians are like, based on movies, media, or their own limited experiences. This can be especially difficult for North-East Indians, whose culture and traditions differ significantly from those in other parts of India. For example, many people assume that all Indians speak Hindi, and are surprised to learn that there are over 1,600 languages spoken in India, with Hindi being just one of them. When I explain that I speak Nepali, a language that is not widely known outside of North-East India, people are often surprised and sometimes even skeptical.

 

Beyond language, there are also cultural differences that can cause confusion or discomfort for those unfamiliar with North-East Indian traditions. For example, the food that we eat, the music that we listen to, and the clothes that we wear are all different from what many people associate with India. In addition, our physical features, such as our lighter skin tone and distinct facial features, can also set us apart from the stereotypical image of a dark-skinned, "curry-smelling" Indian.

 

All of these challenges have contributed to a sense of identity crisis that many North-East Indians experience when living overseas. We often feel like we don't fit in, and that our experiences and perspectives are not valued. However, I believe that it is important to challenge these stereotypes and misconceptions, and to embrace the diversity that exists within India and the Indian diaspora. By sharing our stories and experiences, we can help to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and understanding world.

 

Cultural differences can also be a source of confusion or discomfort for those unfamiliar with North-East Indian traditions. Our food, music, and clothing are all different from what many people associate with India, and can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or awkward moments. For example, I once had a coworker who was confused by the fact that I brought dumplings (momo and we eat it all the time) to work for lunch, as she assumed that all Indians only ate curry.

 

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of being a North-East Indian abroad, however, is the feeling of not being heard or understood. When people have preconceived notions about what Indians are like, it can be difficult to get them to see us as individuals with our own unique experiences and perspectives. This can lead to a sense of isolation and marginalization, which can be particularly challenging when we are trying to build a new life in a foreign country.

 

Despite these challenges, I believe that it is important to embrace our cultural identity as North-East Indians, and to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions wherever we can. By sharing our stories and experiences, we can help to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and accepting world.

 

In conclusion, being a North-East Indian living overseas can be a complex and challenging experience. However, it is also an opportunity to celebrate our unique cultural heritage and to challenge stereotypes and preconceived notions. As more and more people around the world become aware of the diversity that exists within India and the Indian diaspora, I believe that we can move towards a more inclusive and accepting society.

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