A Japanese man’s honest and humorous journey of finding a flat in Gurugram has struck a chord with Indian audiences, sparking a wave of empathy and helpful advice online.
A Japanese expat currently living in India has unintentionally become an internet sensation after posting a video documenting his quest to find a suitable apartment in Gurugram, Haryana. Sharing the experience through his Instagram account @random_japanese_in_india, the video showcases his flat-hunting struggles in a city known for its real estate complexities, traffic, and culture shock for newcomers.
The expat, who arrived in India for work, begins his day with hope, looking at several semi-furnished and fully furnished flats across the city. As he tours the apartments, he candidly admits, “I’m staying in a hotel now… but I need a home.” However, his expressions and commentary soon reflect his growing indecision and exhaustion.
Midway Dosa and Lassi Break Wins Hearts
In a delightful twist, the expat takes a mid-hunt break to enjoy a dosa and a glass of lassi. This small moment of joy has endeared him to Indian audiences. “The dosa was so crispy, and the lassi was really good,” he said, smiling. The simplicity and sincerity of the moment has drawn praise for his openness to Indian food and culture.
Despite the break, the video ends with him saying, “In the end, I couldn’t decide. I want to cry,” highlighting the real and often frustrating challenges of apartment hunting in urban India.
Internet Reactions: From Advice to Applause
The video has garnered over 50,000 views, along with thousands of likes and comments. Social media users resonated with his struggle and flooded the comment section with suggestions. Many advised him to choose a location close to his office to avoid Gurugram’s infamous traffic. Some recommended areas like Golf Course Road and MG Road for their amenities and expat-friendly communities.
“Bro, check if there’s water 24×7 first,” wrote one user, while another commented, “Welcome to the real estate maze of India!”
What Makes This Video So Relatable?
- Cultural Curiosity: His willingness to embrace Indian culture and cuisine adds a warm touch to the story.
- Raw Honesty: The lack of filters and his openness about his struggles make it deeply relatable.
- Online Empathy: Indian netizens came together to guide and support him—a true reflection of digital humanity.
The Bigger Picture
This viral moment sheds light on the real challenges expats face when adjusting to life in Indian cities—be it real estate, lifestyle, or decision fatigue. But more importantly, it reflects how food, humor, and community can bridge cultural gaps.