Ankit, founder of Germanpedia, joined us to talk about his journey from India to Germany, the challenges he faced, and how he created a comprehensive platform to help other expats navigate German life—from health insurance to housing to cultural quirks.

Sigrid
For every question we have about life these days, we go to Wikipedia. It’s become the go-to source for everything. But life in Germany can feel like it needs a Wikipedia of its own—and that’s where Germanpedia comes in. Joining us is Ankit, the founder of this amazing project. Hello!

Ankit
Hi Sigrid, how are you?

Sigrid
We’re thrilled to have you here because I’m sure you have answers to our burning questions—or at least a better understanding—since you’re our very own Germanpedia!

Ankit
Yes, definitely. I’m happy to answer your questions and share more about Germanpedia.

Ankit reflects on how a lesser-known academic opportunity brought him to Germany and changed the course of his life.

Sigrid
Let’s begin with your story. How did you come to Germany, and where are you originally from?

Ankit
Sure! I’m from India, and I came to Germany as a student. I discovered that Germany offers tuition-free master’s programs for international students. That really caught my attention because, about ten years ago, most people in India were thinking about studying in the US or Canada. But here was Germany offering world-class education at no cost—that was exciting.

That’s how I came here 11 years ago. I’ve been here ever since, and now I’ve started my own company. So yes, it’s been quite the journey!

Sigrid
Congratulations! Tell us more about the company.

Ankit explains how Germanpedia was born out of a desire to go deeper than surface-level advice and truly serve the expat community.

Ankit
Germanpedia is designed to offer expats in Germany the same level of access to knowledge, tools, and services that locals have.

While other platforms offer general information, I often felt they just scratched the surface. With Germanpedia, we go deeper. We explore each topic in detail, build tools around it, and partner with experts—whether it’s for filing taxes, buying a home, or understanding insurance.

Sigrid
So if I visit Germanpedia with a question—let’s say, about insurance—how does it work? Is it free? How do I access these tools?

Ankit
Most of our services are completely free. We provide detailed written guides and even books on complex topics, such as health insurance and real estate.

For example, our health insurance tool helps users determine whether public or private insurance suits them best. Users answer a few questions, and the tool gives personalized suggestions with explanations.

We also have tools for things like generating rental contract letters. All of that is free.
We do collaborate with professionals—like insurance brokers or tax advisors. Some offer free consultations; others may charge, depending on the service. But the core content of Germanpedia remains free.

Ankit shares what topics fascinate him most and how hindsight shaped his understanding of the system.

Sigrid
Do you have a favorite topic?

Ankit
Honestly, I find every topic interesting. The more I read and research, the more I realize how much I didn’t know—things that would have made a big difference had I known them ten years ago.

If I had to pick one, I’d say health insurance. For example, I would’ve opted for private health insurance if I had known more at the time. Public healthcare in Germany is excellent, but knowing the finer details could have helped me make more informed choices.

I also wish I had understood my rights better as an employee. Germany offers strong protections, and I wasn’t aware of them at first.

Sigrid asks if life in Germany has started to influence Ankit’s identity. His answer reveals how culture quietly reshapes habits over time.

Sigrid
After 11 years in Germany, do you feel like you’re becoming “a bit German”?

Ankit
Absolutely! One big shift is in how I plan. When I make plans with friends, I want exact times—no more vague “between 11 and 12.” And now, I plan holidays two months in advance, which is something I never did before.

Sigrid
That’s so relatable. Integration sometimes sneaks up on us! Does that mean you plan to stay in Germany long-term?

Ankit
It’s complicated. I love life in Germany—the discipline, the structure, the work-life balance. But I do miss my family and cultural traditions in India. For now, though, I’m fully focused on growing Germanpedia here.

Sigrid
Every time I go back to Mexico, I’m torn between staying there and returning to Germany. Do you ever feel that?

Ankit
Oh, absolutely. When I go back to India, I miss the warmth, the food, the social life. But after a while, I start missing Germany—the bread, the walks, the quiet. It’s funny how these small things become part of you.

Sigrid
Exactly! And now you’re even analyzing bread quality like a true German!

Ankit
(Laughs) Yes! I recently moved from Stuttgart to Berlin, and I’m still looking for a bakery that matches Stuttgart’s standards. That’s when you know you’re becoming German.

They shift to one of the most beloved topics in Berlin: finding good Indian food.

Sigrid
Okay, now the big question: where can we get authentic Indian food in Berlin?

Ankit
That’s a tough one! Truly authentic Indian food is hard to find in Germany. But two decent spots I’d recommend are Chutnify near Potsdamer Platz and Saravanaa Bhavan, also nearby. They may not be 100% authentic, but the food tastes good.

Ankit shares a lighthearted but profound insight about sick leave culture in Germany—and how deeply different that can be from his home country.

Sigrid
Before the break, you mentioned the rights expats often don’t know they have. Can you tell us more?

Ankit
Definitely. Many expats work as employees in Germany, and they’re often unaware of their rights. For example, your employer can’t just fire you without cause. You’re protected by strong labor laws.

Women on maternity leave are also protected, and if you’re laid off, you’re entitled to severance pay in some cases. There are also organizations that offer free advice to help you understand and claim your rights.

Sigrid
And saying “no” to your boss! That’s so counterintuitive for many of us.

Ankit
Exactly. In India, saying no could cost you your job or promotion. But in Germany, it’s about asserting your boundaries—and you’re protected.

Sigrid
What other culture shocks did you experience?

Ankit
Sick leave was a big one. In India, you get a limited number of sick days. Here in Germany, sick leave is essentially unlimited—you’re encouraged to rest until you’re fully recovered.
And yes, the doctor might just prescribe tea and rest! I haven’t taken medicine in years. You get used to listening to your body.

Sigrid
So true. Even walking has become part of our lifestyle—Germans walk everywhere and fast!

Ankit
That’s another cultural shift for me. In India, no one says, “Let’s go for a walk.” Now I take visitors and my parents on walks in the forest. At first, they’re confused, but I’ve grown to love it.

Sigrid
For anyone new to Germany—or just looking for answers—would you recommend Germanpedia? And where can people follow you?

Ankit
Absolutely! Visit our website for guides, tools, and resources. We’re also on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook. We’re starting to post more regularly and will be adding more content for expats soon.

Sigrid
Thank you so much, Ankit. We’d love to have you back again!

Ankit
Thank you! I’d be happy to return.