Abibi, thank you very much for the insight. It is very interesting so hear of other people's experiences.
I am actually not Indian. I am entirely European. But I did grow up with Hinduism and that was enough to make me the victim of ridicule by peers. Especially during primary school when I attended a Catholic institution. Some kids hated me specifically because of my religion. My experience has been very similar to what you described. Leading a double life. I knew a lot of my Hindu friends were devout at home and temple but then they would party and drink alcohol and other things that are frowned upon in my religion. I was always one of the few who didn't do those things.
That part of my life is also why I was curious about Muslims in America. It must be similar to grow up in a culture that is so different to your religious morals and not be influenced.
I have family in America, and friends who were born, and brought up there too. This is what I have noticed.
There probably is more percentage of muslims youths living double lives in america/ uk/Eu/ Aust than in an islamic country, But since the world really picks up quick on the trends of the countries who are the super powers (or ahead in economy and facilitated lifestyles) willingly or unwillingly, there is an increasing percentile of youth looking to drink and party even in Islamic countries ,( due to projection of ways to have fun by the media, movies etc) but offcorse all hush hush without the knowledge of their parents or people outside their circle for fear of getting caught.
Having said that, I have seen n met very well behaved and religiously aware muslims from the US who seem really good in their practice of religion.
I do think however, that living in the US and yet be a good Muslim is far more demanding and requires a constant effort on the parents part and the person himself. But, if a person does get influenced, which cannot be prevented at all instances and all the times, it may become hard for him to practice his beliefs even more so in such tempting, or non-islamic environment where it is just not possible for him to practise his beliefs with the same religious fervour that he could in a conducive environment for islam.
That is why, it is recommended in Islam for muslims to live and settle in countries where Islamic way of life and jurisprudence is the main rule ( to what extent is another debate ) because atleast people are aware of your religious background and nobody can belittle you for practicing your beliefs and a certain lifestyle. Although muslims can live anywhere, it just becomes easier living with people who are not hostile to your identity and do not take you for terrorists or worse. And you don't have to explain yourselves to people for what they never really wish to understand.
On the contrary, if you are a strong muslim, you really can create a well informed impression upon non-muslims and it gives good opportunity to bridge the mis-conceptions people have regarding Islam.
