Take the middle road

If you grew up middle class, some habits are hard to shake. Some you don't notice. Some you'll probably treasure forever

- SEEMA GOSWAMI

The definition of being middle class in India has changed in my lifetime. When I was growing up, it basically meant any family who could afford to send their children to English-medium schools, who could go on holiday twice a year (even if it was just to visit relatives), and who could save a little something over from the combined household salaries every month. Most people who called themselves middle class could not afford a car (though they did take taxis on special occasions) and air travel was a luxury that only the rich could afford.