For many Indians, shifting their base to the United States is a dream built in search of better salaries and a comfortable life. The promise of a better future looks too promising. But what happens when the dream comes true and still you find something missing? The same feeling has been shared by Kartik Chauhan (@kartikinspire) on Instagram. His post perfectly captures the emptiness he has experienced despite achieving several of the things people often associate with success overseas.The videoIn the video, the man shows his luxury car, a beautiful house and an empty colony. He says that he has spent four years in the US, earned well, bought a house and a car, and settled into what he describes as a nice residential colony.But as Diwali approaches, the man highlights a side of life abroad that photographs of beautiful homes and successful careers rarely capture: loneliness.For all that he has built, he says, life can feel lonely. Having a comfortable home does not necessarily mean having someone to talk to. A good neighbourhood does not automatically provide companionship.His message is around Diwali, a festival which celebrates family and togetherness as it is about lights and prayers.A house of his own, but what about a home?“America me rehte huye mujhe 4 saal hogaye. Theek thak paise kama liye. Mustang hai mere paas, ghar hai aur badhiya society hai. But society me hai nahi koi baat karne vala.”He then pans the camera and shows empty roads and says, “Inse baat karun kya ab main?”For someone who has moved abroad, buying a property can represent years of hard work. A car like Mustang shows his sacrifices. A pleasant neighbourhood offers security. But the man’s account raises a question that can get lost in conversations about salaries and buying real estate. There’s hardly anyone to talk to, share your feelings with or celebrate these accomplishments.“Abhi sirf raat ke 8:30 baje hain aur abhi koi hai hi nahi baat karne wala. Sannata chaya hua hai,” he further says.In India, everyday social life often extends beyond the immediate household. Depending on where someone lives and their family circumstances, relatives may drop in unannounced, neighbours may stop by just to say hello, and festivals can bring together generations.In many parts of the US, socialising may require more deliberate planning.When Diwali makes the distance feel bigger
American dreams (@kartikinspire)
Diwali is one of those festivals which brings memories from home. In India, preparations often begin days in advance. It starts with cleaning of the house, sweets are prepared, gifts are wrapped and plans are made around family gatherings.To which he says, “Ab mujhe realise hua hai ki jo khushi tumhare parents aur tumhare partner aur bacche de sakte hain na, vo koi aur nahi de sakta.”“Paisa utni dair khushi deta hai jitni dair aap paisa kharch karte ho”He acknowledged that money brings happiness. However, he says that one can’t buy the happiness which one gets from parents or a partner and kids. For someone living alone, the day after Diwali may look much like any other day: the same home, the same work routine and the same quiet evening.The other side of the American dreamThe man’s experience also speaks to a wider conversation about migration: financial progress and emotional fulfillment do not always move at the same pace.The United States continues to attract Indians seeking education, employment and economic opportunities. For many, moving there brings professional growth, independence and a quality of life they value. Others build families, develop lasting friendships and become deeply rooted in their adopted communities.The man’s video is a reminder that the worth of a place is not measured only by its infrastructure or standard of living. Relationships also shape how people experience their surroundings and life and future.For Indians celebrating Diwali in the US, joining a community celebration or inviting friends over for a meal can make the festival feel less distant. Such gestures may not replace family, but they can help create new traditions and a sense of belonging.And for someone spending Diwali far from home or the people they love, that may be the most difficult truth of all.
