Relocating from India to the US often involves adjusting to differences that go beyond jobs, education and lifestyle. Transportation is one such change that can come as a surprise to newcomers. For Drishti Baldeva, the biggest realisation was how difficult routine life can become when someone does not have access to a personal vehicle. In a video shared on social media, Baldeva explained that her understanding of car ownership changed after experiencing life in the US. In India, she said, people can generally choose between several forms of transport depending on the city and distance. In many American communities, however, those alternatives may not be as convenient. She highlighted how residential neighbourhoods and essential services can be located far away from one another.

A simple trip to a supermarket, workplace or other facility may therefore require a vehicle, particularly for people living in suburban areas. For people without a car, ride hailing services can provide an alternative, but frequent use may put pressure on their monthly budget. Baldeva noted that transportation costs can add up when several trips are required during the week. At the same time, owning a car is not inexpensive either. Drivers have to consider expenses such as insurance, fuel, servicing, repairs, parking and registration. This means newcomers have to balance the convenience of having a vehicle against the financial commitment involved. Baldeva's comments are particularly relevant for international students and recently arrived professionals. Someone who has moved from an Indian city with extensive public transport may initially expect to manage without a vehicle, only to discover that the experience can be very different depending on where they live.

She described the lack of mobility in particularly strong terms, saying that being without a car can feel like “house arrest.” The phrase caught the attention of social media users and prompted discussions about America's dependence on private transportation. However, the experience is not identical across the US. Major metropolitan areas such as New York, Chicago and Washington, DC have extensive public transportation systems, allowing many residents to live without owning a car. The situation can be considerably different in suburbs and smaller cities where destinations are spread out. Baldeva's experience has therefore resonated with people who have faced similar adjustments after moving abroad. Her comments have also encouraged an online debate over whether a car in America should be viewed primarily as a luxury or, in certain locations, as a practical necessity. Ultimately, the need for a car depends heavily on where someone lives, works and studies. But for people settling in areas with limited public transport, Baldeva's experience highlights an important reality: mobility can play a much bigger role in everyday life in the US than many newcomers initially expect.