Viral Post by Creator Yulia Sparks Conversation on Indian Work Culture

Content creator Yulia, who has been living in India for over 12 years, recently shared a post on Instagram titled “Things considered normal in Indian offices but abnormal abroad.” Her list of observations instantly caught people’s attention online, highlighting the cultural and professional contrasts between India and other countries. Yulia recalled that when she began her career in India, her colleagues showed deep personal concern by asking if she had eaten breakfast or wanted tea or coffee. She called it a “super sweet and welcoming restart” to her professional journey, noting how warm and caring Indian workplaces can be.

What She Found ‘Abnormal’

However, Yulia also mentioned certain habits that surprised her. She observed that employees don’t leave the office until top management leaves, and late-night work calls are often considered the norm. According to her, Indian professionals are hardworking, but the environment is highly competitive, creating intense pressure.

She added that people often compete with teammates from other departments, and that workplace politics in India exist at a “different level.” Yulia also noticed how many employees travel over two hours daily for work and tend to avoid saying a direct ‘no’ in conversations.

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“Living for Work” vs “Working for Life”

Yulia shared that many young and ambitious Indians work not just for themselves but for their entire families, which adds emotional and financial pressure. She summed it up as “living for work vs working for a good life,” a thought that resonated deeply with many online.

How the Internet Reacted

As Yulia’s post went viral, social media users largely agreed with her observations, saying her insights reflected the reality of the modern Indian corporate world.

“Mostly correct observations,” one user wrote, while another added, “As an Indian, I don’t like the work culture. Managers are too involved in personal matters. No privacy. Even entitled holidays cannot be used.”

Others pointed out that while overworking is a serious issue, festival celebrations in Indian offices offer much-needed relief. “When you overwork, these few days help you balance that frustration,” one person commented.

Yulia’s Journey in India

Yulia first came to India in 2012 for a five-month internship before returning to Russia. A few years later, she came back to buy an elephant for a circus, a visit that unexpectedly turned into a long-term stay. Over time, she built a family and launched her own business in India, calling the country her second home.

Yulia’s honest comparison has sparked a broader discussion about India’s work-life balance and evolving corporate culture. Her post serves as a poignant reminder of how deeply cultural values influence professional life and how even small acts of warmth can still make a lasting impact in high-pressure environments.

Social media has become the loudest microphone of our times, a space where one post can spark debates, challenge norms, or even ignite revolutions. It empowers the ordinary voice, transforming opinions into movements and personal experiences into global conversations.

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