Introduction

The journey of an Indian middle-class exile to the West is fraught with challenges. Not only must they navigate the complexities of a new culture, but they also often find themselves in a battle with those from their own community who may harbor low mentalities. Coupled with this is the often-overlooked challenge of being perceived as brown-skinned and facing lower treatment in certain contexts. This article delves into the strategies and mindset required to overcome these dual battlegrounds, emphasizing the importance of confidence, rationality, and meritocracy.

Exilic Challenges: A Tale of Two Battles

For Indians and Indian-origin individuals seeking opportunities in the Anglosphere—United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—double battles often loom on the horizon. On one side, there is the battle against those within their own community who struggle with negative mindsets and attitudes. On the other side, there is the struggle to navigate a world that, despite its liberal ethos, may not fully appreciate the achievements of brown-skinned individuals.

Battling Internal Prejudices and Low Mentality

Internal battles are often the most challenging. In the Indian diaspora, there are individuals who may question your success or belittle your achievements. This is why it's crucial to stay grounded and confident. When faced with criticism or doubts from within your community, it's important to stand firm in your convictions. As the saying goes, ‘Success is the stepping stone of humility, failure the excuse of pride.’

One must also be willing to adapt and correct when faced with facts. Remember, the most significant transformations come from being open to learning and evolving. For instance, when a callout was made against Kashmiri Pandits for not fighting back in Kashmir, a response came that changed the perspective. All it takes is an open mind and a willingness to reconsider.

Challenging External Perceptions

However, the battle doesn’t end there. Even in progressive societies, individuals are sometimes subjected to lower standards or discrimination based solely on the color of their skin. This is a complex issue, but with the rise of meritocracy and the emphasis on diversity and inclusion, the landscape is shifting.

Take, for example, Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the UK, and Vivek Ramaswamy, who scored second in the Republican primaries for the 2024 election. These successes showcase the power of talented individuals breaking through barriers. The brown-skinned are not just successful but also form vital parts of the communities they represent. In places like the United States, Indian Americans have made significant strides in politics, with figures like Chandra Arya serving in Canada as well.

Meritocracy and the Future of the West

Despite these successes, systemic issues still exist. One such issue is the shift towards diversity quotas, which can sometimes undermine the principle of meritocracy. Meritocracy, the system of valuing individuals based on their abilities and achievements, is a fundamental aspect of the Western ethos. Without it, the very fabric of these societies can falter.

Systems like reservations in India have historically perpetuated inequality by guaranteeing certain slots to those deemed less qualified, resulting in a dilution of the ethos of meritocracy. This highlights the critical need to uphold the principles of fairness and hard work that have historically defined the success of Western societies.

Conclusion: Embracing Resilience and Unity

The journey of an Indian exile is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. While internal and external challenges exist, the key to success lies in unity, confidence, and the unwavering belief in one’s path. By standing strong and advocating for meritocracy, we can ensure a more inclusive and fair future for all.

Whether battling low mentalities within your community or facing external perceptions, the path may be long and arduous. Yet, by staying true to your values, persevering, and contributing positively to society, you can navigate these challenges with grace and dignity.