“99% of Indians will not come to work the next day if…”: CEO’s criticism of India’s work culture shocks many

Shantanu Deshpande, founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, shared stark insights into Indian work culture in a recent post on LinkedIn. His unfiltered critique touched on the realities of the workforce, wealth inequality, and the ingrained “hard work” ethos that has driven economies for centuries.

“If financial security is guaranteed, 99% will not come to work the next day,” he said, challenging the basic drivers that fuel the country’s workforce. From temporary workers to government employees, Deshpande noted near-universal discontent, adding: “The story is the same. 19-20 ka farak.”

Deshpande did not hold back when discussing the wealth gap, highlighting how just 2,000 families control 18% of India’s wealth but contribute far less than 1.8% of the country’s taxes. “This is just crazy,” he exclaimed. He questioned the ethics of a system where the majority toil endlessly to provide for their families while a few benefit disproportionately.

Reflecting on the historical role of work, he said: “For more than 250 years, we have accepted the principle of working tirelessly from dawn to dusk, often for weeks at a time, with the promise of a salary. Nations are built on this, and we do it.” And yet That said, he candidly admitted that even stock builders like himself are guilty of perpetuating the “work hard and move up” mantra because “we don’t know any other way.”

The post sparked strong reactions. One commentator said jobs provide more than just financial stability, saying: “A job keeps the mind active. Without it, people might waste time scrolling through social media.” Another noted that states thrive on the work of farmers, teachers, health care workers and vendors who They will continue to work even if their power is guaranteed.

Others questioned the feasibility of providing financial security to billions, while some delved into philosophical views, likening life’s struggles to themes in the Ramayana and Mahabharata.