'Birds of a feather flock together' although true for most Indians on campus does not mean that they miss out on the international experience. Tamalika says: 'My social life has expanded in horizon due to the cosmopolitan nature of the campus; it helps me understand societies and cultures with a global outlook. The presence of other Indians makes me feel that I am not the lone soul far away from home.' Shankaranarayanan, comparing his social life to that in any of the urban cities back home, asserts: 'Staying in Logica has helped me meet people of different nationalities, interact with them and know their cultures. Presence of Indians does help to a great extent. Especially when you are new to any place, you tend to look forward to meet people of your kind, which is true for any community in the world.' Parasu explains: 'For me, socialising with Indians and foreigners feels alike because people coming from India belong to different states with different languages and values; just like Europe. Coffee and lunch sessions with colleagues are the opportunities for international interaction. Presence of Indians on campus helps in times of need.' Vasughi adds: 'Indians in particular have their own social gatherings though I do make efforts to mingle with others because I have my own group of international people whom I work with. Also, being a part of organisations like Women in Twente really helps.'
Staying in the campus-accommodation is preferred by most Indians. Vishwas defends: 'Depending on the work load, our working hours are quite flexible and thus, proximity to the workplace is an advantage.' Satyendra adds: 'My wife doesn't feel lonely anymore due to the company of other Indians and, I can now come home for lunch!' Says Madhavi, a housewife: 'There is no boredom if one stays inside the campus; browsing internet, playing tennis or badminton give the much-needed break from the routine.' Sheela and Kavitha cite the harsh winds of the winter months as the reason to move to the campus, 'It is really difficult to cycle during the cold months and, therefore, quite a relief to stay nearby.' Vasughi reasons: 'Anyone staying outside the campus would be restricted in one's social life as one would be isolated in an unknown area, with neighbours who may or may not speak English.'
All said and done, the social life of Indians at the UT has a global touch. They manage effective communication with members of the international community by making the most of the opportunities available to them. But they make sure to preserve their cultural heritage by coming together to celebrate birthdays and festivals, while inviting other nationalities on campus to share their celebrations. Last but not least, they all passionately play their favourite sport -- cricket, when weather permits. A community that plays together stays together.
Vijay Iyer
The indian community at the UT: different traditions and customs but bound by 'the unity of diversity' of India.
