Earn big, return home? NRIs reveal if Rs 45 crore is enough to leave US and move to India

Life abroad or home? NRIs face tough choice. (Image: _riturathee/ Instagram)

For many Indians living abroad, the idea of returning home often comes with a simple but difficult question: how much money is enough? A recent social media video filmed outside Patel Brothers in the United States has brought that debate into focus.

In an Instagram video posted by Ritu Rathee, Indian shoppers were asked whether they would move back to India if they earned 4-5 million dollars, around Rs 45 crore. Their replies show that while wealth can influence plans, the final choice depends on more than money alone.

Akash answered without hesitation. “4–5 million, yes,” he said when asked if he would move back after reaching that figure. Divya agreed. “Yeah, sure. Why not?” she responded. Dhwani also said “Yeah”, while Aman added, “I would like to go.”

For these respondents, the amount appeared to represent financial security and freedom. A sum of Rs 45 crore in India could provide long-term stability, investment opportunities and a comfortable standard of living without the need for regular employment. For some, reaching that level of wealth makes the idea of returning practical and achievable.

For others, however, the decision was not based only on money. “Right now, no. My life is all set here,” said Gokul, pointing to the stability he has built in the US. His response reflects the experience of many long-term migrants who have established careers, homes and routines abroad. Over time, professional growth and social connections create a sense of permanence that is not easily reversed.

Sushma offered a different perspective. “Even if I don’t have that much money, I would still go back to India,” she said. For some, returning home is about family, culture and familiarity rather than financial targets.

Others were firm about staying in the United States. A woman explained, “I’ve been here like 20 plus years. So, my friends and family are here. I connect here, I belong here.” Another respondent said, “No” and added, “We’ve been here for 50 years. Kids are here, grandkids are here, they’re settled, so we’ll stay here.”

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Kaushal struck a practical note. “I’ll earn dollars from here and spend it in India,” he said. His comment reflects a strategy followed by many NRIs who maintain financial ties with India while continuing to work overseas. Earning in a stronger currency and investing or spending in rupees can offer an economic advantage.

The video ends with a question to viewers: if you had 4–5 million dollars, would you return to your country? The answers in the clip suggest that there is no single response.

Many netizens reacted to the video; one added, “Everyone wants to go back.” One user agreed with, he wrote, “Liked the last guy's reply. I am thinking the same, earning in £/$ and spending in INR.”

One expressed, “Money can buy everything but not the time and happiness spent with family.” At the same time, netizens also pointed out that the difference in standard of living could also be the reason for those who chose not to come back.