Cultural Clash: Indian Students vs. U.S.-Born Desis

Like oil and water, two distinct identities within the Indian diaspora in the U.S. are struggling to mix, sparking tension between international Indian students and American Born Confused Desis (ABCDs). What might seem like a shared heritage is, in fact, dividing communities, with international students feeling the sting of discrimination-not from American society, but from their fellow Indian peers born and raised in the U.S. Some international students claim to have faced hostility and even verbal abuse from ABCDs, leaving many to wonder why there’s a rift within this shared culture.

One such troubling incident involved an international student who witnessed a friend being verbally abused by an ABCD at a campus event. Ironically, it was white students who intervened to support the international student, exposing the uneasy dynamic and sparking discussions over why some ABCDs display hostility towards newcomers from India. This raises the question of whether cultural differences or identity struggles lie at the heart of this friction.

Much of this behavior stems from complex identity issues. ABCDs, caught between their Indian heritage and American upbringing, often face challenges fitting into either culture. As they navigate this identity crisis, some may develop feelings of superiority or detachment toward newly arrived Indian students who are more connected to their roots. This can create a psychological barrier, fostering a divide where there should be unity.

For both sides, this issue speaks to a broader struggle with identity and belonging. While international students bring their strong ties to Indian traditions, ABCDs wrestle with their place in American society, leading to friction where understanding and community should flourish. This tension points to the need for open dialogue, empathy, and an embrace of shared heritage to bridge the gap and foster harmony.