Desi Return

Desi Return
  • 4.5 (2)
  • Personal Journals
  • Every two weeks

Welcome to the Desi Return! Our mission is to provide support and guidance for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who are considering or planning to return to India. On this show, we share inspiring journeys of families who are planning or already returned to India as well as informative content about frequently asked questions related to finance, culture, job opportunities, etc.,. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about your move to India and to ensure a smooth transition back to your home country. Subscribe to our show to stay updated on the latest content.

  1. 5 days ago

    Episode 162: After 23 Years in US, She Left a Successful Life in US. Was Moving Back to India Worth it?

    If you're even thinking about moving back to India, start planning early.We've created a FREE Desi Return Planner that gives you a personalized roadmap based on your family's situation.✔ Personalized action plan✔ School & relocation checklist✔ Curated videos and trusted partners✔ Track everything in one place🎁 Get your FREE Desi Return Planner here:👉 https://desireturn.com/plannerAfter 23 years in the US, a successful career, financial independence, and a life many people would dream of, Sunita made a completely different choice — she moved back to India in her 50s to begin her second innings.In this episode of Desi Return, Sunita shares the real story behind her decision to leave the US, why money was no longer the only priority, and what she has learned after moving to India.From building a career in the US after moving from India in her 30s, to becoming a financial professional and running her own practice, her journey is very different from the typical NRI return story.In this episode:Why she moved from India to the US in her 30sThe challenges of restarting a career in AmericaBuilding a 23-year career in US financial servicesWhat made her reconsider life in AmericaWhy COVID changed her perspective on retirement and timeWhy she chose India for her second inningsWhy she chose Pondicherry instead of staying with familyLife as a single woman returning to IndiaFinding your tribe and building a social circle after returningFinancial planning before moving back to IndiaWhat she did with her US house and investments401(k), IRA and Roth considerations when moving to IndiaWhy you should NOT blindly liquidate your US retirement accounts during RNORCross-border taxation and why professional advice mattersUS vs India capital gains rulesUS state taxes after moving abroadRenting vs selling your US homeHow much money do you really need to retire in India?The biggest expenses to consider in IndiaWhat she misses about the USWhat surprised her about life in IndiaInequality, civic sense and acceptance of mediocrity in IndiaThe positive changes she has seen in IndiaHer advice to NRIs thinking about moving backOne of her biggest lessons is simple:Don't try to optimize everything.Personal finance, taxation, family, children, immigration status, lifestyle and long-term plans are all interconnected. What works for one NRI may not work for another.If you're an NRI considering moving back to India, especially in your 40s or 50s, this conversation offers a very honest look at what a return can actually look like — beyond just money and taxes.▶️ **Desi Return Diaries: What NRI Families Need to Know Before Moving Back**https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSwv-Q4A3w0q-seOSDUE1OtchPO9kAA9a### Chapters00:00 Introduction01:11 Moving to the U.S. & Starting Over04:52 Why She Started Thinking About Leaving08:38 Money Is Not Everything12:32 Why India?15:35 Returning Alone, Community & Pondicherry19:18 Financial Planning Before Moving Back22:04 401(k), RNOR, Roth IRA & Tax Lessons30:34 How Much Money Is Enough?33:25 Life After Moving Back to India35:15 What She Misses About the U.S.37:12 Her Advice for Future Returnees41:59 India Then vs India Now45:26 Final Thoughts

  2. 6 Aug

    Episode 161: The Hardest Decision I've Ever Had to Make Abroad | NRI | 20 Years

    If you're even thinking about moving back to India, start planning early.We've created a FREE Desi Return Planner that gives you a personalized roadmap based on your family's situation.✔ Personalized action plan✔ School & relocation checklist✔ Curated videos and trusted partners✔ Track everything in one place🎁 Get your FREE Desi Return Planner here:👉 https://desireturn.com/plannerWhat happens when the life you've built abroad collides with the people you love the most?For many NRIs, the hardest part of living abroad isn't the job, the visa, or the taxes—it's being thousands of miles away from aging parents.In this deeply emotional episode of the Desi Return Podcast, Gautam shares his incredible 20-year journey in the United States, from pursuing his dream career to building a family and community in California. But everything changed when his mother was diagnosed with cancer.Unable to secure a visa appointment in time, Gautam faced every NRI's worst nightmare—being unable to reach India to be with his mother during her final days.This isn't just a story about immigration. It's a story about family, sacrifice, regret, career, children, identity, and what "home" truly means.If you're an NRI living abroad, planning to return to India, or simply navigating the difficult balance between career and family, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.#NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots Chapters0:00 Introduction1:32 A Two-Year Plan Became a Life in America8:27 The Woman Who Shaped His Life17:15 The Cancer Diagnosis19:47 The Race to Reach India22:22 No Visa Appointments23:19 His Wife Flew Home Instead24:09 His Mother’s Final Request25:30 Their Final Conversation27:29 The Call That Changed Everything28:23 The Regret He Carries30:37 His Wife’s Sacrifice35:25 Why They’re Returning to India38:50 What Home Means to Their Daughters43:02 His Wife Is Still Stuck in India46:33 No Emergency Path in the Visa System47:24 The India He Sees Today49:34 Advice for Anyone Moving Abroad50:22 What He Would Do Differently53:06 Closing Thoughts

  3. 30 Jul

    Episode 160: After 16 Years in US, Hew Walked Away From the American Dream for This One Reason| Back to India | NRI

    Planning your return to India? Don’t guess — plan it right 👉 https://access.desireturn.com/planner-yt🇺🇸 Bhanu spent 16 years building a successful life in the United States. Then he made a life-changing decision—to leave it all behind and move back to India. But not for the reasons you might expect.In this episode of Desi Return, Bhanu shares the incredible story of why he walked away from the American dream, chose entrepreneurship in India, and made one of the biggest decisions of his life to support his son's dream of becoming a Formula 1 racing driver.From turning down the Green Card path to navigating the emotional loss of his mother during COVID, building startups in India, and planning the next chapter in Europe for Formula racing, this conversation is filled with honest insights about family, purpose, entrepreneurship, and returning to India.Whether you're an NRI considering moving back to India, an entrepreneur, or simply someone wondering what truly matters in life, this episode offers a refreshing perspective beyond money and career.In this episode we discuss:✅ Why he left the U.S. after 16 years✅ The real reason behind moving back to India✅ Supporting his son's Formula 1 dream✅ Why entrepreneurship became the only option✅ Life in Bangalore vs Visakhapatnam✅ Challenges of starting a business in India✅ Green Card decision and future plans in Europe✅ Advice for NRIs planning to return to India✅ Mistakes people make while relocating back to IndiaIf you're planning your move back to India or simply exploring the idea, subscribe to Desi Return for real stories, practical guidance, and honest conversations with people who've made the journey. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:12 Background & 16 Years in the US05:35 What Triggered the Return?08:50 Losing His Mother During COVID14:09 His Son’s Formula Racing Dream17:22 Family Decision & Choosing Bangalore25:25 Why India for Entrepreneurship?30:40 Return Preparation & Green Card34:09 Leaving America & Financial Planning39:15 Reality of Life in Bangalore42:29 Moving to Visakhapatnam & Kids’ Adjustment44:33 Two Years Back in India47:12 Business & Banking Challenges49:45 Regrets, Advice & Opportunities51:53 Biggest Mistakes Returning NRIs Make54:24 Final Thoughts

  4. 23 Jul

    Episode 159: Moved Back to India After 30 Years in US; What I Actually FOUND After Living for 11 Years in India

    Need Indian tax filing help as an NRI or returnee? https://desireturn.com/services/india-tax-filing?utm_source=youtube​ Planning your return to India? Don’t guess — plan it right 👉 https://access.desireturn.com/planner-yt👉 Need help with shipments, taxes, RNOR, investments & more:https://services.desireturn.comAfter spending 30 years in the United States, Ramh Prasad made a life-changing decision—he moved back to India to build a company that is now one of India's leading driver platforms, DriveU.  @DriveuIn  In this conversation, Ramh shares what it was really like to leave behind a successful career in Silicon Valley, convince his American wife to move to India and build a meaningful life while balancing family, business, and purpose.If you're an NRI living in the US and wondering whether moving back to India is the right decision, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest experiences.In this episode, we discuss:Why Ram left the US after 30 yearsWhat convinced him to move back to IndiaHow his American wife adapted to life in IndiaRaising children between the US and IndiaBuilding DriveU and India's startup ecosystemLiving between two countries for over a decadeChallenges of relocating after decades abroadFinancial planning and managing assets in both countriesOpportunities for NRIs returning to IndiaAdvice for professionals considering a move backFinding purpose after a successful career abroadWhether you're planning to return to India, exploring career opportunities, or simply curious about life after decades in the US, this conversation offers valuable perspective from someone who has lived both worlds. #NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots Chapters0:00 Introduction1:05 Background 4:14 Why leave silicon valley?9:17 Any apprehension to move to India?12:05 Why most people never return14:30 Building DriveU17:55 Spouse transition23:10 Living in both countries27:04 Reality of life in India31:40 Kids after move35:17 Financial planning39:32 Advice & opportunities46:52 Why People are moving back to India51:03 Future Plans

  5. 16 Jul

    Episode 158: We Chose India Instead of Waiting for Our Green Card | 13 Years in India

    Need Indian tax filing help as an NRI or returnee? https://desireturn.com/services/india-tax-filing?utm_source=youtube​ Planning your return to India? Don’t guess — plan it right 👉 https://access.desireturn.com/planner-yt👉 Need help with shipments, taxes, RNOR, investments & more:https://services.desireturn.com🇺🇸➡️🇮🇳 They Left America After 12 Years. Was It the Right Decision?After spending 12 successful years in the United States, Sumit and Naina made a decision that most NRIs only talk about—they moved back to India.Now, 13 years later, they look back with complete honesty.Was it worth leaving before getting a Green Card?How did their children adjust?Did they regret the move?What really happens after returning to India?In this episode of Desi Return, we go far beyond the usual "pros and cons" discussion. This is a deeply personal conversation about identity, family, parenting, career, finances, and building a fulfilling life after returning home.Whether you're seriously planning your move or simply wondering if life in India could be right for your family, this episode is packed with practical lessons and emotional insights.In this episode, we discuss:✅ Why they chose India before getting a Green Card✅ Planning their return over four years✅ The biggest fears before moving back✅ Career sacrifices and starting over✅ Financial planning before returning✅ 401(k), investments, and retirement planning✅ Raising kids in India after growing up in the US✅ CBSE vs Cambridge curriculum✅ Why their son chose Europe instead of the US✅ The challenges their daughter faced after moving✅ What they would do differently today✅ Advice for NRIs considering returning to IndiaIf you've ever asked yourself..."Should I move back to India?"...this conversation will give you one of the most honest perspectives you'll find. #NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots Chapters0:00 Introduction1:00 Background & Why move back4:56 How Life would be in US8:21 Timing the move19:30 Biggest Fear23:54 Career Sacrifices30:31 Six month unknown?34:50 Financial planning39:46 Tradeoffs42:51 Kids Transition45:36 Curriculum and college admissions51:35 Why Transition from CBSE to IGCSE55:27 JEE Entrances Readiness for Cambridge students59:18 Reflecting life After 13 Years1:07:52 Advice

  6. 9 Jul

    Episode 157: Is Europe Really Worth It? 6 Years in Amsterdam Changed My Mind | Return to India

    Need Indian tax filing help as an NRI or returnee? https://desireturn.com/services/india...​ Planning your return to India? Don’t guess — plan it right 👉 https://access.desireturn.com/planner-yt👉 Need help with shipments, taxes, RNOR, investments & more:https://services.desireturn.comHave you ever wondered if life abroad is really as perfect as it looks?In this episode of Desi Return, we sit down with Garima, who spent 6 years living and working in Amsterdam, Netherlands, building a successful career in data science with global companies. Despite enjoying Europe's world-class infrastructure, work-life balance, and career growth, she made the life-changing decision to move back to India.In this candid conversation, Garima opens up about the realities of living abroad that many people don't talk about—loneliness, mental health, family, belonging, career growth, finances, and why she ultimately chose India over Europe.Whether you're planning to move abroad, currently living overseas, or thinking about returning to India, this episode will help you make a more informed decision.In this episode:Why Garima moved to AmsterdamFirst impressions and culture shock in the NetherlandsThe hidden challenges of living in EuropeLoneliness and mental health while living abroadCareer growth vs. quality of lifeCost of living, savings, taxes, and financesHousing challenges in AmsterdamWhy she decided to return to IndiaPlanning the move back to IndiaReverse culture shock after returningAdvice for NRIs considering moving backIs Europe really the dream life everyone imagines? #NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots Chapters0:00 Introduction1:50 Background3:14 Life in Amsterdam 7:10 Things Nobody Tells You About Europe13:52 The Hidden Cost of Living Abroad23:14 Loneliness26:15 Planning the Move Back30:55 Life After Returning to India35:15 Advice for NRIs38:05 Women's Safety & Final Thoughts✅ About Desi Return.Our mission is to provide support and guidance for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who are considering or planning to return to India. We share informative and engaging content about frequently asked questions related to finance, culture, job opportunities, real estate etc.,. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about your move to India and to ensure a smooth transition back to your home country. For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: info@desireturn.com🔔Planning to come back home (India) again. Subscribe to our personal journeys and expert insights: / @desireturnThanks for watching!You guys are awesome :)

  7. 2 Jul

    Episode 156: Why I Live 6 Months in India and 6 Months in the US After Leaving a Big 5 Career

    Need Indian tax filing help as an NRI or returnee? https://desireturn.com/services/india-tax-filing?utm_source=youtubeJoin our private whatsapp grouphttps://desireturn.com/services/inner-circle👉 Need help with shipments, taxes, RNOR, investments & more:https://services.desireturn.comCan you really build a life in both India 🇮🇳 and the United States 🇺🇸?In this episode of Desi Return, I sit down with Arjun, who moved to New York at 17, built a successful career in Big 5 consulting, was on the partnership track, and then made the bold decision to move back to India.But the story doesn't end there.He later started his own company and, together with his wife, created an unconventional lifestyle—living approximately 6 months in India and 6 months in the US every year.In this conversation, we discuss:✅ Why he walked away from a successful US career✅ The fear of never experiencing India as an adult✅ Applying to 50 jobs in India and getting zero responses✅ How networking changed everything✅ The reality of salary cuts when moving back to India✅ Starting a company after returning to India✅ Building a dual life between India and the US✅ The challenges of taxes, relationships, family, and entrepreneurship across two countries✅ Advice for NRIs considering moving back to IndiaIf you're an NRI thinking about returning to India, struggling with the India vs US decision, or wondering whether it's possible to have the best of both worlds, this episode is for you. #NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots You can reach out to Arjun at https://mypivot.work/about-usChapters0:00 Introduction1:08 Background2:48 Why move back to India6:55 Career transition10:54 Decision process13:15 Planning the move18:43 Salary adjustment 24:30 Marriage, post covid life28:15 Startup31:00 Living in US and India & Cons37:47 Taxation39:33 Advice

  8. 25 Jun

    Episode 155: After 10 Years in US, We Moved Back to India and Never Went Back to Tech | NRI

    Need Indian tax filing help as an NRI or returnee? https://desireturn.com/services/india-tax-filing?utm_source=youtube​ Planning your return to India? Don’t guess — plan it right 👉 https://access.desireturn.com/planner-yt👉 Need help with shipments, taxes, RNOR, investments & more:https://services.desireturn.comFrom Silicon Valley to Nashik: Why We Left the US After 10 Years | H1B to Entrepreneur JourneyWhat happens when a couple spends nearly a decade building successful careers in Silicon Valley, only to decide it's time to come back to India?In this episode of Desi Return, I speak with Chetan and Deepika about their journey from India to the US, life in Silicon Valley, the challenges of being far from family, and the events that ultimately led them to move back to India.They share:✅ Why they originally moved to the US✅ The reality of life and careers in Silicon Valley✅ How becoming parents changed their priorities✅ The impact of COVID and being far from family✅ How they evaluated their finances before returning✅ Why they chose Nashik instead of Bangalore, Hyderabad, or Pune✅ Why they decided not to return to tech jobs✅ Their journey into entrepreneurship and building a business in India✅ Reverse culture shock after moving back✅ What life is like for their daughter in India today✅ Advice for NRIs considering a return to IndiaWhether you're actively planning your move or simply wondering if returning to India is right for your family, this conversation offers practical insights and honest reflections from people who have recently made the transition. #NRI #MoveBackToIndia #DesiReturn #LifeInIndia #NRItoIndia #ReturnToIndia #IndianAbroad #NRIlife #IndiaVsUSA #MovingToIndia #OCI #ReverseMigration #NRIParents #LifeAfterMovingBack #HealthcareInIndia #nrilife #backtoindia #nrishaala #backtoroots Chapters0:00 Introduction1:58 Background8:23 Why move back to India11:03 Financial Planning13:14 Overall Planning17:00 Why Nashik?19:00 Quitting Tech? 24:50 Life in India28:56 Advice

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About

Welcome to the Desi Return! Our mission is to provide support and guidance for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who are considering or planning to return to India. On this show, we share inspiring journeys of families who are planning or already returned to India as well as informative content about frequently asked questions related to finance, culture, job opportunities, etc.,. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about your move to India and to ensure a smooth transition back to your home country. Subscribe to our show to stay updated on the latest content.

Information

  • Creator
    Desi Return
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    166
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Desi Return
  • Show Website
    Desi Return

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