A social-media post by French designer Julia Chaigneau has struck a chord in India, sparking a wave of fond reflections on community and belonging in Indian neighbourhoods. After relocating to Gujarat in 2024, Chaigneau shared how, unlike in Europe where neighbours might exchange just a casual greeting, in India she found something more profound. On her first day in Ahmedabad, a neighbour knocked on her door offering help and food.
"Since then, we've celebrated festivals together, exchanged food, planned safaris, all these small things make everyday life feel fuller," Chaigneau wrote.
Reflecting on this shift, she added: "Living in India completely changed my perspective on neighbours. They're not just people next door; they're the ones closest to you."
The post highlights how neighbours in India often form unexpected support systems, noticing when something is wrong, opening their door in emergencies, and creating a sense of family beyond blood ties.
Julia Chaigneau's post on Indian neighbourhood warmth has garnered nearly 1 lakh views, sparking an outpouring of relatable reactions.
One user shared, "Having lived in India forever, I never realised the value of this until a month in London-I couldn't wait to return. India has its flaws, but some things should never change."
Another recalled how attentive their neighbours are: "If I'm not seen for days, they ask my mom if I'm okay. She updates them, and I step out more just so they don't worry."
A third user summed it up with an old Indian saying: "When a need arises, neighbours arrive first-relatives come later." Many echoed this sentiment, calling such bonds one of the country's most beautiful, underrated strengths.
