"Two Worlds, One Identity: A Journey from India to Australia"

Introduction

I was born in India in the year 1984, a time when the country was undergoing significant changes. It was the year of the assassination of Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi. The Sikh community blamed Indira Gandhi for orchestrating "Operation Blue Star." It was a military attack on the auspicious Golden Temple in Amritsar. The attack killed many pilgrims. I don't want to go into the legitimacy of the attack as I didn't live the trauma both sections went through at that time.

After spending three decades in India, I moved to Australia in 2014. After moving to Australia, I tested rock bottom many times but have no regrets. It had been a journey of self-discovery. This essay delves into my experiences. I will explore the theme of national identity and belonging. Let's see how it feels to go through the lens of my birth country, India, and my adopted home, Australia.

India: A Birthplace of Identity

Growing up in India was an immersive experience in itself. India provided a unique backdrop during my formative years. I had a blessed childhood. My parents ensured easy access to healthy food and quality education.

My school life resembled a rollercoaster ride - full of curiosity and determination. Acamedics wasn't my strongest suit. Let's say I had a knack for keeping academics on their toes! My parents had limited financial resources but were way ahead of their time. They ignored my intellectual limitations and instead focussed on building my emotional intelligence. Instead of picking on my shortcomings, my parents helped me build resilience.

Apart from my struggles at school, my childhood was fun. I used to love our festivals. My favorites were Holi & Diwali. The celebrations for both of these festivals last for a week. It will be full of social get-togethers and eating.

My parents never stopped me from celebrating festivals of other religions. I had friends from all faiths. We will celebrate festivals to have fun, irrespective of the associated religion.

Transition to Australia

While looking for better career opportunities to stay alive in the rat race, I moved to Australia in 2014. My father wasn't happy with my decision as I was moving away from him, but he supported me in every way he could.

It helped because my relatives were in Australia. My Aunt and her kids opened their hearts and welcomed me without inhibitions. They supported me as I tried to find my feet in the new country. Their friends became a part of my inner circle, and I am blessed to know every one of them.

Australia: A New Chapter

Australia welcomed me with open arms. Its natural beauty, multiculturalism, and laid-back lifestyle left me in awe. Growing up in India helped me to settle in Australia. I knew what it means to stay among people from diverse backgrounds, and Australia is a land of migrants. Stunning landscapes, indigenous heritage, and commitment to diversity and inclusion make Australia unique.

Bushwalking became my favorite outdoor activity. I joined bushwalking groups and explored scenic and breathtaking bushwalks. My favorite one is the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. There are many trails as part of the Great North Walk. The Great North Walk links Sydney to Newcastle via a 250km bushwalk. I covered many trails as part of the Great North Walk and loved them all.

I found myself adjusting to a new set of cultural norms and etiquette. The Australian way of life encouraged individualism and self-expression. These traits are different from the collective culture in India. My identity was evolving at a fast pace for good. Australia was changing me for the better.

Comparing Identities

I moved to Australia after working as a software engineer for six years. The biggest challenge was to use my work experience and restart my career from scratch. The story is no different from any other migrant. It was time when I was about to realize the many benefits of coming to Australia.

Even though I was starting at the bottom of the ladder, my opinion mattered. My work balance and mental health was my employer's priority. I saw a different brand of leadership in Australia. In Australia, a manager's job is to lead rather than delegate. I have been fortunate to work with exceptional managers in my professional career. Australia didn't disappoint me. My managers were honest and assertive. They applauded me for my good work and guided me with constructive feedback.

One of the striking differences between the two nations is the concept of time. In India, time often flows, with a more relaxed approach to punctuality. In contrast, Australia's adherence to punctuality and schedules was a notable change. At first, It was disorienting, but it helped me appreciate time's value.

The concept of personal space was another cultural contrast. India's crowded streets always force us to be near each other. In Australia, people like to have their personal space. Respecting personal space is a fundamental aspect of social etiquette. I needed to make a shift in my perspective. It was a phase when I had to go through these teething issues, but with time, everything settled down.

Despite these differences, profound similarities bridge the gap between my dual identities. Both India and Australia celebrate diversity. In India, languages, cultures, and religions co-exist in harmony. In Australia, it is the policies that promote inclusivity and multiculturalism.

Many Backgrounds, Same Mindset – Welcome everyone

One of the most beautiful aspects of both India and Australia is the vast diversity of cultures. With its 1.3 billion people, India is a melting pot of languages, each with its nuances and beauty. The situation is no different in Australia.

The official language in Australia is English, but the country is home to many languages. Accepting this linguistic diversity is proof of the welcoming nature the Australian society.

There will be instances of racial abuse here and there. Law enforcement agencies do their best to limit such cases, though. I have been a victim of a few minor incidents, but seeing how people came forward to defend me was heartwarming. Being an Indian, I don't tend to complain about these incidents. They are commonplace in India. There are laws to protect the victims in India as well. These laws may not be as efficient as in Australia, but they exist.

National Aspirations and Achievements

India and Australia have distinct aspirations and achievements that define their identities. India celebrates democracy, secularism, and social justice. They have a long history of fighting for independence. The road to freedom was not smooth either. There was a lot of bloodshed, and the wounds affected all sections of the society. The British Empire looted India's vast financial resources for 200 years. The country's journey to freedom is a testament to its resilience and determination.

Natural beauty and environmental consciousness mark Australia's identity. The country takes pride in its stunning landscapes. My Aunt says -

"If you drive 30 mins in any direction, Australia has views that bring time to a standstill".

I cannot find a better quote to describe Australia's landscape.

Moreover, Australia has made significant strides in indigenous reconciliation. They acknowledge the land's traditional owners and work towards reconciliation.

Sports: A Shared Passion

One common aspect among Indians and Australians is their unwavering love for cricket. In India, cricket is not a sport; it's a religion. The thread binds people from diverse backgrounds, languages, and regions.

Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, and Virat Kohli are GODs to Indians. The zeal for cricket reaches its pinnacle when India faces arch-rivals like Pakistan. In 2022, India faced Pakistan at Melbourne Cricket Ground in a T20 World Cup. The nation came to a standstill when India defeated Pakistan in a last-ball thriller.

Australia's relationship with cricket is as passionate as India's. The flavor is distinct, though. Cricket Down Under is not only a sport; it's a part of the nation's heritage. Sun-soaked grounds amid the stunning landscapes that define the country host these matches. Australians cherish the iconic Boxing Day Test match (MCG) and the McGrath Pink Test (SCG).

Australia's sporting culture extends far beyond cricket. Australian Rules Football (AFL) is a unique and cherished sport. It has its own set of passionate followers. Played on oval fields, it combines elements of rugby and soccer.

Rugby union and rugby league are two distinct forms of rugby played in Australia. Each has its own rules, governing bodies, and traditions. There are national and state-level competitions. The National Rugby League (NRL) holds a special place in the hearts of many Australians.

Australian sportspeople have excelled in swimming, producing several Olympic champions. Tennis also enjoys a prominent place. The Australian Open is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments.

Spirituality

India is fortunate to be home to some outstanding spiritual leaders. We have a rich history of spiritual leaders and philosophers. They have contributed to the world of spirituality and philosophy. Gautam Buddha, Swami Vivekananda, and Adi Shankaracharya are some of the many. The teachings of Gautam Buddha & Buddhism had a strong influence on my life. Vipassana is a Buddhist form of meditation. I did a 10-day Vipassana course in 2020 to kickstart my journey with meditation.

In India, people relate spirituality and religion. There are thousands of temples, mosques, churches, and gurdwaras. Each represents a unique spiritual path. In contrast, Australia's spirituality is more diverse due to its multicultural society. It has less dominance of any single religion.

Australia's Indigenous cultures have their own spiritual beliefs. The fundamental aspect of indigenous spirituality is its connection to the land. India does not have a unified Indigenous spiritual tradition like Australia's.

Australia's constitution enshrines the principle of secularism, separating religion from government affairs. India is secular in its constitution. The similarity ends there, though. Religious practices in public life influence the political & social climate.

India is home to many colorful and elaborate religious festivals. People express spirituality through rituals, music, and dance. Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, etc. are the famous ones. Australians celebrate a wide range of cultural festivals. They do not have the same level of religious beliefs as in India.

While the expression of spirituality differs, the fundamental human quest remains the same. It's the search for inner peace, purpose, and. Both countries serve as reminders that borders do not confine spirituality. It's a universal journey that seeks to transcend the limitations of the material. The aim is to embrace the boundless realm of the spirit. Our spiritual experiences define humanity that unites us across continents and cultures.

Travel & Tourism

India is a vast subcontinent with diverse climates and terrains. India is a land of varied experiences within its borders. Australia, while also significant, is an entire continent. Travelers in Australia might need to cover longer distances between destinations.

India's transportation network is extensive, with a well-connected railway system. Travel in India is affordable. Australia does not have a well-connected transport system. The Australian transport system is not advanced. They don't use the latest technology and travel is expensive. The primary reason behind it is low population density and vast landscape. Australia relies on air travel for long-distance journeys. Traveling and holidaying in Australia could be expensive.

In India, travel often involves navigating bustling cities & vibrant markets. In contrast, Australia's wide-open spaces and relaxed lifestyle encourage a slower travel pace. Travel in Australia emphasizes outdoor adventures and natural beauty.

There are significant differences in the food culture. Both countries offer diverse culinary experiences. Indian street food and local delicacies leave a permanent imprint. Flavor & spices are the protagonists of the Indian food industry. Australia's cuisine often features fresh seafood and modern fusion dishes.

Travel in India and Australia is a testament to the beauty of diversity. The vibrant streets of Mumbai offer a unique experience of the chaos. The serene beaches of Queensland offer an exceptional introduction to peace and tranquillity. Both countries provide opportunities to connect with new cultures. It motivates us to appreciate natural wonders. Tourist creates memories that last a lifetime. As travelers embark on their journeys, the differences enrich their experiences. The similarities bridge the gaps.

Conclusion

In this journey, I've realized that national identity is not static. National identity is a dynamic and evolving concept. Both India and Australia have left an indelible mark on my identity. They have shaped me into someone who can appreciate diversity's beauty. I cherish the values of community and individualism.

This exploration of national identity has taught me many lessons. Our desire to find the true meaning of life goes beyond borders and boundaries. At the core, we are all part of the collective human experience. It's all about embracing the diverse facets of our identity. With the help of this essay, I wanted to pay gratitude to two countries who taught me so much. India trained me well so that Australia could spoil me.

Thank You

Tarun