A recent study by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace highlights a growing trend among Indian-Americans: a stronger embrace of their Indian heritage alongside their American identity. The 2024 Indian-American Attitude Survey, conducted by polling firm YouGov, surveyed 1,206 Indian-American adults, including US citizens and non-citizens. The findings indicate a significant shift since 2020.
According to the report, 86% of US-born Indian-Americans now say that being Indian is an important part of their upbringing, a notable rise from 70% in 2020. Interestingly, the number of respondents identifying themselves as “Indian American” has decreased, while more are now choosing to describe themselves as “Asian Indian.” The study suggests that the idea of balancing both Indian and American identities has strengthened in recent years.
Cultural connection continues to play a central role in the lives of Indian-Americans. Despite generational gaps, the study found that most participants actively engage with Indian culture. Around 80% of respondents said they had eaten Indian food in the past month, and 65% watched Indian films or television shows during that same period. Additionally, 38% participated in Indian dance, music, or art activities within the last six months. Only 7% reported no engagement with Indian cultural practices.
The survey also explored attitudes toward caste. About 32% of respondents stated they do not identify with any caste, while 46% identified as General or Upper caste. A large majority of Indian-Americans support formal policies to ban caste-based discrimination, signaling a progressive shift in attitudes toward social hierarchies within the diaspora.
Discrimination remains a concern for many Indian-Americans. Half of those surveyed reported experiencing some form of bias in the past year, with skin color being the most cited reason for mistreatment. Respondents also expressed heightened awareness of discrimination against Muslims, viewing it as particularly widespread.
Overall, the study shows a community increasingly proud of its cultural roots, while also seeking inclusion and fairness in the broader American social fabric.
