Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, September 30, 2024
In a rapidly globalising world, Indian families are increasingly migrating abroad in search of better opportunities. Along with them, many bring their grandparents, bridging a generational gap in a foreign land. This tradition of multigenerational living not only preserves cultural roots but also offers unique benefits for both young and old alike, while contributing to the functioning of the society, in a quiet yet impactful way.
Cultural continuity and support
Grandparents play a pivotal role in maintaining cultural identity for families living abroad. By sharing traditional stories, religious practices, and language, they help grandchildren stay connected to their heritage. This is especially important for families living in multicultural societies like New Zealand, Australia, the UK, or the United States, where maintaining cultural identity can be a challenge.
Dr Karl Pillemer, a Professor of Human Development at Cornell University and Author of ‘30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans’ emphasises the value of intergenerational relationships: “Grandparents and grandchildren often have a unique connection that is free from the day-to-day responsibilities of parenting, allowing for deep emotional bonds and a special understanding that benefits both generations. This connection fosters empathy, emotional support, and personal growth for both the young and the elderly.”
For families, having grandparents in the household offers a form of emotional support that is invaluable, especially in times of hardship or adaptation to a new country. They act as nurturers and protectors, offering wisdom and comfort that spans generations.
Boosting work productivity
One of the most significant advantages of having grandparents in a migrated family is the positive impact on the working members’ productivity. With grandparents assisting in daily household chores and caregiving responsibilities, parents can focus more on their careers without the constant pressure of managing both work and family life. This enhanced support leads to higher work efficiency, reduced stress levels, and better work-life balance.
Rahul Sharma, a software engineer in Hamilton, shares, “Before my parents moved in with us, I was constantly juggling between my job and my kids’ schedules. Now, I can dedicate more time to my work without feeling guilty, knowing that my children are in trusted hands. My productivity at work has increased significantly, and I even have time for my own hobbies.”
In today’s fast-paced world, where working parents often face long hours and demanding schedules, the presence of grandparents provides a safety net, allowing parents to excel in their professional lives without sacrificing family time.
Improving academic excellence in children
Grandparents not only offer emotional support and cultural wisdom but also positively influence the academic performance of children. They often serve as additional mentors, guiding children with their homework, reinforcing discipline, and fostering a sense of responsibility. The extra attention from grandparents can result in better focus on studies and overall academic improvement.
Priya Nair, a Mother from Auckland, reflects on the academic impact. “With my parents helping around the house, I noticed my children’s grades improving. They sit down with their grandfather after school, discussing everything from history to math, which has given them a deeper understanding of subjects. This kind of personalised attention is invaluable.”
A 2022 study from the Indian Journal of Family Studies found that children raised in multigenerational households often excel in academic environments due to the emotional security and cognitive stimulation provided by their elders. Grandparents provide life lessons, storytelling, and guidance that spark intellectual curiosity, contributing to children’s overall development.
Voices from the Indian Community
The Indian community at large recognises and celebrates the invaluable role of grandparents in family life. Sunita Sharma, a Member of the Hamilton Indian Association, comments, “In Indian culture, family is central, and grandparents are often the glue that holds everything together. Their presence provides balance and wisdom that younger generations can greatly benefit from.”
Similarly, Arjun Mehta from Christchurch adds, “In Western societies, people often move toward independence early, but in our community, family means everything. Having grandparents around enriches our children’s lives in ways that a school or day-care never could.”
As more Indian families migrate abroad, the integration of grandparents into these households continues to grow, enriching the lives of not only the family but also contributing to the broader multicultural fabric of their adopted countries. Grandparents are not just caregivers or cultural custodians—they are integral to enhancing family productivity and fostering academic excellence.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
