third Common Myths Indian Parents Have About Studying Abroad- “My child will forget Indian culture and values.”

 

Main Issues Behind the Myth: “My child will forget Indian culture and values.”

1. Fear of Western Lifestyle Influence

Parents worry that exposure to a modern, independent lifestyle abroad may change the student’s habits, clothing, mindset, or social behaviour.

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2. Misconception That Cultural Exposure Means Cultural Loss

Parents think that learning new cultures automatically means forgetting one’s own — which is not true. Students often blend global perspectives with Indian values.

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3. Overthinking About Peer Pressure

Parents assume their children will adopt everything their foreign peers do, including lifestyle choices that don’t align with Indian culture.

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4. Influence of Stereotypes Shown in Movies & TV

Films often show students becoming “too Western” abroad, creating unnecessary fears and unrealistic expectations.

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5. Lack of Awareness About Indian Communities Abroad

Parents don’t know that almost every major country has:

• Indian student associations

• Cultural groups

• Temple/Gurudwara/Mandir communities

• Indian festivals (Diwali, Navratri, Holi) celebrated at a large scale

• Indian grocery stores and restaurants

This keeps students deeply connected to their culture.

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6. Emotional Fear of Losing Connection With Their Child

Parents worry that the distance might create emotional disconnect or reduce communication — leading to loss of shared values and traditions.

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7. Generational Gap in Thinking

Parents raised in traditional environments sometimes misunderstand how global exposure actually strengthens cultural identity instead of weakening it.

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8. Lack of Trust in the Student’s Value System

Parents fear their child might get influenced easily, without acknowledging that most Indian students carry strong cultural foundations built over years.

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9. Belief That Independence Means Rebellion

Some parents associate living independently with forgetting family values, not realizing that students abroad become more responsible, mature, and grounded.

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10. No Awareness That Cultural Education Continues Online

Today’s students stay connected through:

• WhatsApp family groups

• Video calls

• Festivals celebrated via Zoom

• Indian content on YouTube, OTT, and social media

They remain updated with Indian traditions, news, and culture.

# Studying Abroad- “My child will forget Indian culture and values.