For decades, the United States has been an aspirational destination for many young Indians. We have seen a massive wave of migration since the late 1990s, with countless individuals and families settling in the U.S., pursuing what is popularly known as the “American Dream.” Many have become U.S. citizens, raising their families and thriving. However, the time has come to rethink the American Dream. It may not be the same opportunity it once was, and young Indians should carefully evaluate their options.

I spent five formative years in the United States, from 2004 to 2009, pursuing my Master’s at the University of Washington and working at Amazon in Seattle. Back then, it felt like the only place to be—a land of freedom, enterprise, and limitless potential. In India, we faced economic slowdowns, coalition governments, and a prevailing lack of direction. Many of us who were well-qualified in India, even graduates from top institutions like IIT, saw the U.S. as the ultimate destination. The narrative of India as a land of snake charmers and outsourcing hubs dominated perceptions.

But the world has changed, and so has India. Today, India is a rising global power—a vibrant democracy with a young and aspiring population eager to create and seize opportunities. There is no denying that we are a chaotic democracy, but beneath this noise is a dynamic force for change. Economic growth has fueled newfound confidence, and more importantly, the opportunity to be part of building something meaningful. India’s growth is driven by the energy of its people, their will to solve pressing challenges, and their desire to be part of the change every single day. This is where the real excitement lies.

In contrast, America today faces significant challenges—political polarization (on campuses), growing geopolitical tensions, and increasing immigration challenges. The cost of higher education in the U.S. has also skyrocketed, often leaving students with enormous debt burdens. For many aspiring students, the high cost of tuition, coupled with the uncertainty of finding jobs due to shrinking opportunities, has made pursuing higher education in America a less attractive proposition. The country that was built on immigrant talent now finds itself turning inward, becoming more divided and less welcoming. Even after decades of contribution, many Indian-Americans still struggle to feel fully accepted; they may change their passports, but they cannot change their identity. Immigration pathways have become increasingly restrictive, making it difficult for talented individuals to gain permanent residency or citizenship. This constant battle with visa renewals and the fear of potential deportation has added significant stress for many immigrants. Color discrimination, an undercurrent in American society, often resurfaces during tough times, revealing the insecurities faced by immigrant communities. The recent immigration policies, and the non-serious treatment of talented Indian professionals are stark reminders of this shifting environment. The American Dream, especially for immigrants seeking security, stability, and fulfillment, now feels uncertain and distant. The once-clear pathway to achieving success in the U.S. is now fraught with rising costs, diminished opportunities, and a lack of assurance regarding one’s long-term future.

This brings us to the critical question: Is it still worth pursuing the American Dream? I would argue that it is time for us to reconsider. Instead of chasing an increasingly elusive dream abroad, why not invest in building our own Indian Dream? Home may be noisy, messy, and imperfect, but it is still home. In India, you are not an alien. You do not live under the constant uncertainty of visa renewals or the fear of deportation. You are not beholden to a system where your future can be upended by the stroke of a pen.

Indian educational institutions are improving steadily, and our economy is more vibrant than ever. You can use your skills, talents, and hard-earned knowledge here, creating opportunities not only for yourself but for others around you. You can be part of India’s growth story and make a meaningful difference—a sense of contribution and belonging that cannot be easily replicated elsewhere. The trends are clear: while America may continue to face long-term challenges, India is on an upward trajectory. In the coming decades, as India cements its place on the global stage, you may look back with pride at having invested in your homeland’s journey.

The path to success and happiness is not just about personal gain—it is about being a part of something greater. By choosing India, you choose to be a stakeholder in the future of one of the world’s largest democracies, and to contribute to its rise. Let us reshape our aspirations, and instead of focusing solely on personal dreams in distant lands, let us work towards an Indian Dream that resonates with growth, prosperity, and shared success.

I invite everyone to rethink the concept of the American Dream and to recognize the exciting opportunities that lie within our own borders. Let us build an India where talent wants to stay, where opportunities abound, and where our best and brightest can thrive without having to look beyond our shores.