In this autoethnography, I explore and question the strong link that has been suggested between heritage language and ethnic identity as an Indian American passive bilingual who has had a global experience growing up. This research paper examines my experiences related to language and identity through the lens of three themes identified; how my ethnic and linguistic identities have been questioned by others, how others perceive my NRI cousins and me differently, and how I, myself, have come to view my identity in order to add a new perspective and address a gap in the research studies on the link between heritage language and ethnic identity of Indian Americans as research is limited. Findings reveal that the relationship between language and identity is more complex than once thought as the attitudes of others might be a factor behind why those who are unable to speak the heritage language question their ethnic identity. Moreover, findings reveal that other ways of expressing ethnic identity are varied and just as legitimate as speaking one’s heritage language.