1️⃣ The Origin Story: Why Desi Return Exists
The Personal Journey
Aakash's inspiration came from his own experience—a journey that mirrors what many IT families returning after 17+ years in the US go through:
- 2002: Moved to the US for Master's degree after engineering in India
- 20 years in the US: Built a successful career, made lifelong friends, experienced countless opportunities
- 2018: Started thinking seriously about the long-term picture—retirement, kids' upbringing, family proximity
- 4-year planning journey: From initial idea to actual execution
- 2022: Made the move to Hyderabad
"The idea of moving back wasn't even on the cards until much later. It wasn't until 2018 that we started thinking about the long-term picture of our life—where do we want to be when we retire, and what's the best thing for our kids as they're growing up."
The Information Gap
After moving, Aakash found himself with free time after leaving the corporate world. He noticed a significant gap in resources for NRIs—unlike the comprehensive guides available for FEMA rules and foreign assets, there was no platform for real stories:
- ✓ Scattered information: A few WhatsApp groups, but nothing comprehensive
- ✓ Emotional complexity: The decision to return is deeply emotional and requires significant thought
- ✓ No storytelling platform: No place for candid, conversational, real experiences
"The decision to return is deeply emotional and requires a lot of thought. When I looked around, I noticed there wasn't anything like this—a platform that shares candid, conversational stories."
The Commitment
Aakash made a bold promise: one story per week for an entire year. He's proud to say: mission accomplished.
2️⃣ The Initial Struggles
Challenge #1: No Video Experience
"I personally had never recorded or uploaded a video on YouTube before. But as they say, it's never too late to start."
Challenge #2: Finding Guests
The most significant hurdle was finding families willing to share their impactful stories publicly. The goal:
- Diverse backgrounds: Different professions, income levels, family structures
- Multiple countries: US, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, and more
- Various life stages: Young professionals, mid-career, retirees, entrepreneurs
Challenge #3: Building the Infrastructure
Starting from scratch meant learning and finding help for:
- Video editing
- Thumbnail design
- Podcast page management
- Newsletter systems
- Community platforms
"It was a learning curve, but it was fun to start this new journey. I want to take a moment to thank my team for all their help in getting this started. Without their support, none of this would have been possible."
3️⃣ Memorable Moments & Unique Stories
Over the past year, Desi Return has featured incredible guests with diverse and inspiring stories:
The Spiritual Seeker
Gautam left the corporate world to join a nonprofit and start a spiritual journey, spending time in the mountains.
The 80-Something Pioneers
Mr. and Mrs. Ramakrishnan (ages 88 and 82) retired in India 16 years ago after 30 years abroad. They now run a nonprofit helping senior citizens.
The First Episode
Anish and Swapna — the very first guests, where everyone was figuring out how to capture these stories. "All good old times."
The 17-Year Veterans
Mr. Nagesh and Mrs. Renuka spent 17 years in India after living in the US. They're currently back in the US, offering a unique perspective on the full cycle.
The Courageous Truth-Teller
Datta shared a story that wasn't entirely successful, but his courage provided valuable lessons for anyone thinking about moving to India.
The Startup Founders
Ajay and Malvika: Left great careers to start their own startups while raising kids in Indian schools
Prasad: Moved to India specifically to launch his startup
The Viral Success
Raju and Meena's episode was the first to really take off, putting Desi Return on people's feeds and setting the stage for many more stories to come.
Expert Insights
Financial advisors, career planners, and other experts answered frequently asked questions, providing practical advice and actionable insights.
4️⃣ The Community We've Built
WhatsApp Group
- 500+ members and growing
- A space to share advice, offer support, and celebrate each other's successes
Weekly Newsletter
- Relevant news and updates
- Information to help with individual planning
- Curated resources and tips
Comprehensive Checklist
A detailed, step-by-step checklist for families planning to relocate back to India—covering everything from documentation to school admissions to financial transitions. For essential pre-departure tasks, see our guide on hidden essentials for returning to India.
Join the Inner Circle Community
Connect with 500+ families who are planning or have completed their return to India.
5️⃣ Our Mission: Balanced, Not Biased
What Desi Return Is NOT
"At Desi Return, we are not here to promote moving back to India."
What Desi Return IS
Our goal: Provide real stories of families who have made the decision, along with valuable information, so YOU can make an informed decision about whether staying abroad or moving to India is right for your family.
Respecting All Perspectives
"We understand the decision to return to India is deeply personal and can be challenging. It's important to make a decision before life passes by. We acknowledge and respect the perspective of those who choose to stay abroad for various reasons."
The Desi Return Promise:
- ✓ Respect and value all viewpoints
- ✓ Provide balanced guidance and support for everyone
- ✓ Help you make an informed decision based on real experiences and expert advice
- ✓ Support you in feeling confident in your choice, whatever it may be
6️⃣ The India You Think You Know vs. The India That Exists
A Critical Message
"Don't think what India was 10 years back to what it is right now. Come, spend some time, understand it, see around, so that you have more up-to-date information that could help with your decision process."
Things Are Changing Fast
India's transformation has been remarkable. According to the Government of India's official portal, the country has seen significant economic and digital growth:
- Infrastructure improvements
- Digital transformation (UPI, online government services)
- World-class schools and hospitals in metro cities
- Startup ecosystem growth
- Quality of life enhancements
The Timing Warning
"Decision is more important. Don't let life go by before you realize you might not have the same flexibility because the kids have grown up or some other commitments which you can't make the decision."
Many families discover that understanding why families struggle after moving back to India helps them avoid common pitfalls and make better decisions.
7️⃣ Future Plans: What's Next for Desi Return
Expanding Content
- ✓ More impactful stories: Continuing the weekly storytelling tradition
- ✓ Q&A sessions: Direct answers to your burning questions
- ✓ Informative guides: Deep dives into specific topics (taxes, schools, healthcare, real estate)
- ✓ Expert discussions: Financial planners, immigration lawyers, career coaches, education consultants
- ✓ Community events: Virtual and in-person meetups for the Desi Return family
Growing the Platform
- Enhanced newsletter with more actionable insights
- Expanded checklist with region-specific guidance
- Video guides and tutorials
- Podcast format for on-the-go listening
8️⃣ Top 10 Insights from Year One
- Every story is unique — There's no one-size-fits-all path to returning to India.
- Timing matters, but there's no perfect time — Waiting for the "right moment" often means never moving.
- Kids adapt better when younger — Under 10 years old is generally easier for school and cultural adjustment.
- Financial planning is non-negotiable — You need a clear picture of expenses, taxes, and income sources.
- Internal transfers are golden — If your company has an India office, that's the smoothest career path.
- Spouse alignment is critical — Both partners must genuinely want the move, or resentment builds.
- Community is everything — Having a support network (like the Inner Circle) makes the transition exponentially easier.
- India has changed dramatically — Don't base your decision on outdated perceptions.
- Healthcare access > healthcare cost — In India, you can see specialists the same day. That's priceless as you age.
- The decision is emotional, not just logical — Spreadsheets help, but ultimately it's about where you want to raise your family and spend your life.
9️⃣ Your Turn: Share Your Thoughts
We want to hear from YOU:
- What's your favorite Desi Return episode or moment?
- What topics do you want us to cover in Year Two?
- What questions do you still have about returning to India?
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Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're just starting to think about returning to India or you're actively planning your move, we're here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to adjust after moving back to India?
Most families report 6-12 months for initial adjustment, with full comfort taking 1-2 years. The adjustment period depends on factors like city choice, family support network, career transition, and how realistic your expectations are. Families with clear motivation and proper planning typically adjust within 6-8 months, while those without adequate preparation may struggle for 18+ months. Having a strong 'why' for returning and family alignment significantly reduces adjustment time.
What is the best age for kids to move back to India?
Kids adapt better when younger—under 10 years old is generally easier for school and cultural adjustment. Ages 0-5 are ideal—kids adjust quickly with minimal disruption to friendships and easily pick up new languages. Ages 6-10 require moderate adjustment (3-6 months to settle into new schools). Ages 11-14 are more challenging due to established friend groups and different academic systems. Ages 15+ are most difficult—consider timing the move around high school completion to avoid disrupting critical academic years.
How important is financial planning before returning to India?
Financial planning is non-negotiable—you need a clear picture of expenses, taxes, and income sources. Financial advisors recommend having 2-3 years of living expenses saved as a buffer before returning to India. This gives you time to find the right job, start a business, or adjust to the new cost structure without financial stress. For a family of four in a metro city like Bangalore or Mumbai, budget ₹15-25 lakhs per year for a comfortable lifestyle.
What if my spouse is not on board with returning to India?
Spouse alignment is critical—both partners must genuinely want the move, or resentment builds. Many successful returns happen when one spouse moves first for a trial period of 3-6 months while the other stays back. This allows the hesitant spouse to visit and experience life in India firsthand without the pressure of a permanent commitment. However, long-term success requires eventual alignment—forcing a move without buy-in often leads to resentment and failure within 12-18 months.
Should I return to India for aging parents?
Returning for aging parents is one of the strongest motivations that helps families succeed long-term. However, it's important to have realistic expectations about caregiving responsibilities, set clear boundaries with extended family, and ensure your spouse and children are also on board. Many families find this reason deeply fulfilling, but it requires proper planning around healthcare access, living arrangements, and balancing family dynamics.
Has India really changed that much in the last 10 years?
Don't think what India was 10 years back to what it is right now. Come, spend some time, understand it, see around, so that you have more up-to-date information that could help with your decision process. India has seen dramatic improvements in infrastructure, digital transformation (UPI, online government services), world-class schools and hospitals in metro cities, startup ecosystem growth, and quality of life enhancements.
What are the biggest challenges when returning to India from abroad?
The biggest challenges include: (1) Family misalignment—when spouse or children aren't fully on board, (2) Poor financial planning—underestimating costs and not understanding taxation rules like RNOR status, (3) Unrealistic expectations—expecting India to be like the West or like the India you left, (4) Wrong timing—moving during critical life stages without proper planning, (5) Lack of support network—not having friends or community connections.
✍️ Editorial Summary
One year, 52 episodes, and hundreds of families helped—Desi Return has grown from a personal mission into a movement. What started as Aakash's attempt to fill an information gap after his own 20-year journey in the US has become the most comprehensive platform for NRIs contemplating their return to India. The diversity of stories—from 88-year-old retirees to young startup founders, from successful transitions to honest struggles—reflects the complexity and deeply personal nature of this decision. The community of 500+ members, the weekly newsletter, and the detailed relocation checklist are all tools built from real experiences and real needs. As Desi Return enters its second year, the mission remains unchanged: provide balanced, factual, emotionally honest information so families can make the best decision for their unique circumstances. Whether you choose to stay abroad or return to India, the goal is the same—confidence in your choice, knowing you've considered all the facts and heard all the stories. Here's to many more years of sharing, learning, and supporting one another on this journey.
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