Moving to a new country brings a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, anticipation, and the inevitable challenge of adjusting to a new culture. For many Indian professionals and students coming to the US, familiarity with Indian communities can be a great source of comfort.
These communities offer a sense of belonging, a shared cultural understanding, and opportunities to connect with others on a similar journey. Whether you're looking for cultural events, food, religious services, or people to share stories with, Indian communities are thriving in most major cities across the US.
In this blog, we’ll explore various resources and tips for connecting with Indian communities, both online and offline.
1. Start with Your Local City Guide
Almost every major city in the US has an Indian community, and many have organizations or websites dedicated to helping new arrivals get settled. Websites like Sulekha offer comprehensive guides to Indian resources in various cities, including grocery stores, temples, cultural events, and community centres.
Some cities are more well-known for their Indian populations than others. For example:
- New Jersey (Edison and Iselin) is often referred to as “Little India” due to its large Indian population and thriving businesses catering to the community.
- San Francisco Bay Area has a significant Indian population, particularly in tech hubs like Cupertino and Fremont.
- Houston is home to one of the largest Indian communities in Texas, with numerous temples, restaurants, and cultural events.
2. Use Social Media to Find Groups
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Reddit offer plenty of groups and pages where Indian professionals and students in the US come together to share experiences and offer advice. These groups are great for newcomers looking to make connections or find information on local events.
Some popular Facebook groups and pages include:
- Indians in the USA
- Indians in New York
- Indians in California
- Desi Foodies USA
- Indians in the Bay Area
Reddit also has dedicated subreddits like r/ABCDesis and r/IndiansInUSA where users share personal experiences, job-hunting tips, and advice for navigating life in the US as an Indian.
Joining these online communities allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, find out about upcoming events, and ask questions about settling down.
3. Attend Local Indian Festivals and Events
Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, Navratri, and Durga Puja are celebrated in most major cities across the US, often drawing large crowds. These festivals are a great way to immerse yourself in Indian culture while also meeting others who share similar interests and backgrounds.
Many organizations host Indian cultural events throughout the year, such as:
- India Day Parades (often held in cities with a large Indian population, like New York and Chicago)
- Holi Festivals (usually organized by local Indian community groups)
- Garba Nights during Navratri (popular in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta)
Local temples, cultural centres, and Indian organizations often post information about upcoming events, making it easy to participate and connect with others.
4. Find Indian Temples and Religious Centers
For many Indian families, faith plays a significant role in their lives. Temples, gurdwaras, mosques, and churches serve as places of worship and community gathering for Indians in the US. You can often find events, classes, and celebrations that help you stay connected with your faith and community.
Popular Indian religious centres in the US include:
- Sri Venkateswara Temple in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – one of the oldest and largest Hindu temples in the US.
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta, Georgia – a breathtaking temple that hosts various cultural and spiritual activities.
- Gurdwara Sahib in Fremont, California – one of the largest Sikh gurdwaras in the US.
Most Indian religious centres offer community services, language classes, and social events that foster a sense of togetherness among their members. Attending these events is a great way to meet new people and stay connected to your roots.
5. Look for Indian Restaurants and Grocery Stores
Nothing brings people together like food! Indian restaurants and grocery stores not only provide a taste of home but also often serve as informal meeting places for the local community.
Many restaurants host special events like cricket match screenings or Diwali dinners, which are great opportunities to meet others in a relaxed setting.
Some popular chains like Patel Brothers, Apna Bazar, and Namaste Plaza are great places to shop for Indian groceries, meet other shoppers, and learn about upcoming community events. Local Indian restaurants frequently collaborate with these grocery stores to host festive meals and events during holidays.
6. Join Indian Cultural Organizations and Clubs
Many cities and universities in the US have Indian cultural organizations that organize events, workshops, and networking sessions. These organizations offer a platform to celebrate Indian culture, participate in festivals, and connect with the Indian diaspora.
For example:
- Indian Cultural Association (ICA) at various universities organizes social and cultural events for Indian students.
- The Network of Indian Professionals (NetIP) is a national organization that focuses on networking, career development, and cultural awareness among Indian professionals in the US.
- India Community Center (ICC) in the San Francisco Bay Area provides services ranging from fitness classes to language programs and community events.
7. Volunteer with Indian Organizations
Volunteering can be a rewarding way to give back to the community while also meeting new people. Many Indian organizations in the US focus on community service, education, and cultural preservation.
By volunteering your time, you can build strong connections with others who share your values and interests. Some notable organizations to consider:
- SEWA International focuses on disaster relief, education, and health initiatives both in India and the US.
- Pratham USA works to improve education for underprivileged children in India, and they have several chapters in the US.
- American India Foundation (AIF) is another organization that aims to improve the lives of underprivileged communities in India and the US.
Wrapping Up
Finding Indian communities in the US can help you feel more at home, no matter where you are. By using social media, attending cultural events, exploring local businesses, and engaging with Indian organizations, you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by people who understand your journey.
These communities provide valuable support, friendships, and opportunities to stay connected with your Indian heritage while embracing life in the US.
Which city in the US has the most Indians?
The city with the largest Indian population in the US is New York City. The broader New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area has the highest concentration of Indians, with a vibrant community spread across boroughs and neighbouring areas like Jersey City and Edison in New Jersey.
How many Indians live in California?
California is home to approximately 800,000 to 900,000 Indians, making it one of the states with the largest Indian populations in the US. The majority of the Indian community is concentrated in cities like San Francisco Bay Area (including Silicon Valley), Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sacramento.
Which state is best for Indians in the USA?
The top five states in the USA that are ideal for Indian students include California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Utah.
What is the best city to live in the US for an Indian family?
One of the best cities in the US for Indian families is Edison, New Jersey. It has a large and vibrant Indian community, offering a wide range of Indian grocery stores, restaurants, cultural events, and places of worship.
How big is the Indian American community in the USA?
The Indian American community in the USA is one of the largest immigrant groups, with a population of over 4.8 million people, according to recent estimates. This makes Indian Americans the second-largest Asian ethnic group in the country.
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