How I embrace Irish culture while honouring my roots

At the age of 4, I moved from India to Ireland. Moving homes is never easy, whether it’s from county to county or country to country. Although an exciting time, it is challenging, especially when transitioning between different cultures. For newcomers, adapting to differences while grappling with the nostalgia for one’s cultural roots can be a profound experience.

Seeing all my friends constantly out sometimes triggers feelings of disconnection and FOMO as I encounter the differences between my native customs and Irish cultural norms. I’m 20 now but I find it difficult at times to make others understand how the nightlife is something that I cannot adapt to.

Understanding Irish cultural norms

Whether it’s the pub culture, the language barrier or just the variations of accents, Ireland’s traditions may seem unfamiliar or even at odds with other upbringings. In Ireland, we emphasise community and social connection which can often be made through going to pubs. This can both enrich and challenge newcomers. However, for people used to more reserved social interactions, adapting to the friendliness of Irish culture may require stepping outside their comfort zone.

For some instead of viewing cultural differences as barriers, they can see them as opportunities for growth and learning. For others, especially those with stricter cultural or religious backgrounds, this is not a line they are willing to cross and can often be quite uncomfortable. For those brought up in Ireland, it can be difficult to understand these cultural differences. After believing one way your entire life it can be hard to look at things from another perspective.

I moved to Ireland from India 16 years ago, and although it is practically my entire life, we still kept with our own culture when within the house and followed its rules outside. As a child, I did not see much of a difference, but when I went to college, I noticed how different the lifestyles really were. For someone just moving here I couldn’t imagine how they would feel.

Honouring your native culture

While embracing Irish culture is important, honouring your own cultural heritage is equally important. Celebrate traditions, share stories, and stay connected with family and friends from home. Finding moments to incorporate elements of your native culture into daily life can provide a sense of continuity and comfort.

In my home, we don’t miss a single year of celebrating Diwali, Holi or Navaratri. But we also never forget to celebrate Christmas, Easter, or St. Patrick’s Day. We are lucky we have such a large Indian community in Ireland that makes it easier for us to connect to our heritage. If you look you may find one of your own too. We don’t hide, trust me.

If you have moved to Ireland and are struggling to make connections, we have a variety of supports to help ease the transition. Reaching out to expatriate communities, local cultural groups, or online forums where individuals share similar experiences, can help make Ireland feel like home. Connecting with others who understand the challenges of adjusting to a new culture can bring real comfort.

As I look back on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me, the moments of joy, the challenges overcome, and the connections forged along the way. In the end, home is not just a place, it’s a feeling of belonging.

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