The Great Indian Invasion (of New York City, That Is)
You might be wondering, just how many Indians are there in the Big Apple? Enough to make a heck of a delicious curry, that's for sure! But seriously, the Indian population in New York City is pretty darn big, easily claiming the title of largest Indian American community in any U.S. city.
Numbers Don't Lie (But They Can Be a Little Fuzzy)
Estimating the exact number is a bit like counting grains of saffron rice - there's a lot and they're not always easy to pin down. The 2014 American Community Survey clocked the number at around 227,994, but that was a decade ago. On the other hand, some reports say the number is closer to a whopping 700,000 in the entire metro area. That's a lot of chai being brewed!
Curry Hill: A Slice of India in NYC
If you're looking for a taste of India in the city, head over to Lexington Avenue in Manhattan between 25th and 30th Streets. This area, fondly nicknamed Curry Hill, is packed with Indian restaurants serving up everything from dosa to vindaloo. Be prepared for mouthwatering aromas and maybe even a Bollywood tune or two!
Fun Facts: Indian New Yorkers are:
- Highly Educated: A larger percentage hold college degrees compared to the city average.
- Entrepreneurial: They're a driving force behind many small businesses in the city.
- Family-Oriented: Many Indian families live in Queens, creating a vibrant and close-knit community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find the best Indian food in NYC?
Curry Hill is a great starting point, but you'll find fantastic Indian restaurants throughout the city. Look for places with menus in Hindi or rave reviews mentioning "authentic flavors."
How to celebrate Indian holidays in NYC?
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a major Indian holiday. Many Hindu temples and cultural centers hold celebrations throughout the city.
How to say "Hello" in Hindi?
Namaste! (pronounced nah-mah-stay) is a traditional Indian greeting.
How to wear a sari?
It's a beautiful garment but can be tricky to master. There are many online tutorials and even sari-draping services available!
How to get involved with the Indian American community in NYC?
There are many Indian American organizations in the city that host cultural events and offer social connections.
