IIT Hyderabad Graduate's Viral Comparison of Japanese and Indian Work Cultures
An Indian professional based in Japan has ignited widespread online conversation after her video comparing workplace expectations in the two nations went viral on Instagram. The woman, a graduate of IIT Hyderabad, currently works as a project manager at Rakuten, a position she secured through campus placements.
A Stark Contrast in Work-Life Boundaries
In her candid remarks, she draws a clear line between her experience in Japan and what she observes among her peers in India. She highlights the pressure many Indian professionals face to remain available outside standard working hours.
"I have seen my friends there, and they attend calls at odd times," she states. Contrasting this, she describes the autonomy she enjoys in her Japanese workplace. "Here I can just switch off my laptop and I don't need to respond after my work hours," she explains, identifying this boundary as a significant advantage of working in Japan.
Managing Living Costs in Tokyo
The discussion also touches upon the practicalities of life in Tokyo. She offers insights into managing monthly expenses, suggesting that sharing accommodation can make the city more affordable.
"If you are on your own, and you are okay sharing with your friends, then around like Rs 1.5 lakh is enough for a month," she estimates, which translates to approximately 264,655 yen.
Mixed Reactions from the Online Community
Her observations have triggered a wave of divided opinions on social media. Many users resonated with her praise for Japan's respect for personal time after work.
However, others challenged her perspectives. Some questioned the feasibility of her budget estimate for Tokyo. One commenter argued, "150,000 is not enough for a single person, it barely covers day-to-day expenses and leaves no room for future savings."
Others expressed skepticism about her portrayal of Japanese office culture, hinting at deeper complexities. A user noted, "She is new to this culture soon she will know the real difference. Japan well known for their work culture and office bullying."
The viral clip continues to fuel a broader debate about global work practices, employee well-being, and the cultural nuances that define professional life in different parts of the world.
