Indian Expat Highlights Quiet Streets, Clean Air in Canada, Contrasts It With Indian Cities

An Indian expatriate named Vishal has ignited widespread discussion on social media with an Instagram video that contrasts middle-class daily life in Canada with the realities of urban India. In the clip, Vishal highlights several aspects of his routine in Canada, including the absence of constant honking, the ability to hear birds chirping, and breathing fresh, clean air—elements he says are rare luxuries in many bustling Indian metropolitan cities. He emphasizes peaceful surroundings, orderly traffic, and a quieter lifestyle as key advantages, captioning the video: "Life of a middle-class family is 10x better in Canada 🇨🇦 than that in India." The straightforward presentation of his personal experience has resonated with many viewers while prompting strong counterarguments.

Supporters of Vishal's perspective largely agree with his observations, pointing to tangible improvements in quality of life abroad. One commenter noted having personally experienced a "wide difference in living standards" and affirmed that, despite Canada's own challenges, the overall quality of life ranks significantly higher than in India. Others echoed the benefits of reduced noise pollution, better infrastructure, a cleaner environment, and a sense of calm that allows for greater work-life balance. These responses reflect the views of numerous Indians who have migrated for better opportunities, public services, and environmental conditions, often citing these factors as decisive in their decision to settle overseas.

Critics, however, argue that the comparison oversimplifies a complex issue and overlooks significant drawbacks of life in Canada. Many highlighted the extremely high cost of living, harsh and prolonged winters, high taxes, and the emotional strain of being far from extended family and cultural roots. Comments such as "Canada may have better roads, but India has opportunities and warmth you cannot measure" and "Peace and clean air are important, but living close to family also matters a lot" captured the sentiment of those who value India's familial support system, vibrant social life, and growing economic prospects. Some pointed out that middle-class struggles in India are offset by affordability, community ties, and the dynamic energy of Indian cities.

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The viral video underscores a recurring debate among the Indian diaspora and those back home: whether material comforts and systemic advantages in countries like Canada outweigh the cultural, emotional, and relational richness of life in India. While Vishal's honest portrayal has been praised for its candor, the polarized reactions illustrate that perceptions of "better" living vary widely depending on individual priorities—be it peace and cleanliness, family proximity, financial stability, or professional growth. The discussion continues to unfold across social platforms, reflecting broader conversations about migration, quality of life, and the trade-offs involved in choosing where to build a future.

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