Ottawa: A video shared by an Indian expatriate living in Canada has set off a lively discussion online, reigniting conversations around what defines a better quality of life for the middle class.
The clip, posted on Instagram by a user named Vishal, offers a glimpse into his everyday life in Canada while drawing comparisons with urban living in India. Through short visuals and narration, he contrasts his calm surroundings abroad with the pressures he associates with life in Indian metropolitan cities.
In the video, Vishal points to quieter roads, the absence of constant traffic noise and the ability to hear birds as part of his daily routine. He also highlights cleaner air and open spaces, suggesting that such experiences have become rare luxuries in many large Indian cities. The post was captioned with the statement that middle-class living in Canada is “10 times better” than in India.
The video quickly went viral, attracting a wide range of reactions from viewers. Many users resonated with Vishal’s observations, agreeing that better infrastructure, cleaner environments and organised urban planning in countries like Canada can significantly improve day-to-day life.
However, others challenged the comparison, saying it overlooked the difficulties that come with living overseas. Several commenters noted the high cost of housing, long winters and the emotional toll of living far from family and long-standing social networks.
Some viewers struck a middle ground, acknowledging the advantages Vishal highlighted while stressing that quality of life cannot be measured by infrastructure alone. They argued that cultural familiarity, family support and a sense of belonging—often stronger in India—are equally important factors.
The discussion has underscored how personal priorities shape perceptions of comfort and success. While some value clean air, quiet streets and public services, others place greater emphasis on family ties, social warmth and opportunities at home.
As the debate continues across social media platforms, Vishal’s video has become a reflection of a broader question faced by many Indians at home and abroad: what truly makes life better, and who gets to define it?
