Hyderabad has been a popular destination for foreigners as the city is known for its rich culture and history. Expats, who have been living in the city from a long time, tell us why Hyderabad is one of the best cities to live in.
Joe Koster, Member, The Hyderabad Western Music Foundation
Originally from Switzerland, Joe came to Hyderabad in 2003, for social work such as child education and help for the poor. In 2007, he stepped into the music industry to promote Western classical and jazz music in the city. Questioned about initial culture shock, he comments, “Parva Ledu (it wasn’t so bad). India is so diverse that even if you move from one city to another, you will experience cultural shock. So, for me it was double the shock! The timing, the way people think, and the many languages, were a few of the things I found difficult to understand. But, now I feel very much at home.”
“I love the fact that there are so many different cultures and religions in one city. I love how colourful the city is. The saris, the clothes that people wear, are so fascinating,” says Joe, who currently conducts events and concerts, providing platform to local, young musicians.
However, he wishes that a few things in the city change: “There are as many people in Hyderabad as there are in Switzerland! I wish the population is controlled. Traffic, drainage system, and cleanliness are few things that should be maintained well. I don’t blame the politicians. We, as citizens must change.”
“Hyderabad is not sleeping. There has been a drastic development in the city, even in the music industry. But, I think there is a long way to go.”
Frauke Quader, Secretary, Society To Save Rocks
Originally from Germany, she came to Hyderabad in 1975. “I was working in India when I met my husband, an Indian. After we got married, he said he wanted to move to Hyderabad because it is one of the best cities to live in. The climate, people, landscapes and the history is just amazing,” she admits.
Frauke continues, “To move to a developing country was quite a big change. But my husband made it easier for me. I had to face many challenges in the beginning because my in-laws passed away. I had to build a family in a completely new place. But I’m more than happy to have moved here because I’m able to work towards what I always wanted to — archaeology,” adding, “I only wish the city was cleaner. We must all work towards it.”
