The Wild Entitlement of Second-Gen Indian Americans: A Discussion

A thought-provoking post on Reddit titled “The Wild Entitlement of Second-Gen Indian Americans – Let’s Talk About It” has sparked extensive discussions across various social media platforms, challenging the views held within the Indian-American community.

In this now-popular post, the anonymous writer claims that many second-generation Indian Americans exhibit a “deep sense of entitlement.” The author argues that they enjoy the rewards of their first-generation immigrant parents’ sacrifices, while showing minimal appreciation or regard for their cultural heritage.

“Many of them were handed upper-middle-class suburban lives… all on the back of first-gen parents who worked insane hours, lived frugally, and tolerated racism silently,” the post states. It also critiques what the author terms as performative activism, highlighting how some second-gens only embrace their heritage when it is socially trendy, invoking their identity selectively.

Contrast Between Generations

The write-up sharply contrasts first-generation immigrants—depicted as resourceful people who built their lives from scratch—with their offspring, who are sometimes characterised as “keyboard activists,” “narcissistic,” and “allergic to accountability.” A particularly pointed observation notes that many second-gens “yell about decolonization while sipping $9 matcha lattes” and view “explaining Diwali to Becky in HR” as their greatest hurdle.

Recognising Diversity Within

While the author clarifies that not every second-generation Indian American conforms to this narrative—acknowledging that many are “humble, hard-working, and aware of their privilege”—the post particularly addresses the most vocal online personalities as contributing to a growing cultural disconnect.

This Reddit post has attracted thousands of upvotes and comments, with responses ranging from strong agreement to fierce criticism. Some users praised the post for “saying the quiet part out loud,” while others deemed it an unfair generalisation that overlooks the unique identity struggles faced by second-generation immigrants.

As discussions about cultural identity, privilege, and generational divides persist, it is evident that the Reddit post has resonated deeply, opening up essential yet challenging conversations within the Indian diaspora in America.

NRI Emotional Wellbeing: The Hidden Struggles of Working Abroad

A heartfelt Reddit post by a Kerala-based Non-Resident Indian (NRI) has gained significant attention, prompting feelings of understanding and reflection within the Indian community abroad. Currently enjoying a month off from his overseas job, the individual expressed the emotional challenges of working outside India — along with the rising anxiety surrounding his return to a demanding workplace.

The Weight of Anxiety Before Returning

The NRI shared that even with ten days remaining before his journey back, he was already feeling overwhelmed by anxiety.

The thought of going back to that stressful work routine abroad was causing him significant panic attacks unexpectedly. He articulated the psychological burden of living away from home.

A Toxic Work Environment

He painted a grim picture of his workplace — an unhealthy atmosphere characterised by passive-aggressive behaviour, insincere smiles, and relentless competition.

Mentally exhausting, he felt that stifling atmosphere approaching all too quickly. The striking difference between his peaceful time at home and his life abroad became apparent, highlighting a profound sense of loss.

The Desire for a Simpler Life

Everything felt incredibly valuable now. Deep down, he could not shake the persistent thought: ‘If he had enough resources, he wouldn’t have to leave. He would settle in India, living a tranquil life surrounded by family, away from insincerity and corporate strain.’

Challenging Misconceptions About NRI Life

He also questioned the widely held belief that NRI life is simply glamorous and filled with opportunity. Many do not recognise this side of the experience — the emotional highs and lows, the difficult farewells, and the deep yearning for a true sense of belonging.

Resonance Among Fellow NRIs

The post resonated deeply, with other NRIs and even individuals working within India recounting similar feelings of emotional turmoil.

A Shared Experience

One user reflected, “He used to experience the same emotions when returning from his hometown to his work city, even within India.” Another individual encouraged him to seek a healthier work environment.

It was suggested that he may be trapped in a toxic culture and that the ideal solution would be to start updating his profile and searching for a different job.

A Larger Conversation on Mental Health

What began as one man’s open confession has sparked a broader dialogue surrounding mental health, work-life balance, and the unseen emotional impacts of migration. This reinforces the urgent need for enhanced empathy and support systems for NRIs across the globe.

Adani’s Inspiring Call for India’s Future Leaders

In a powerful speech at IIM Lucknow, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani urged India’s future leaders to become the architects of a dynamic new nation. He encouraged them to prioritise courage, character, and contribution rather than comfort, cynicism, and conformity.

Addressing an enthusiastic crowd of students and faculty, Adani recounted his journey from being a 16-year-old diamond trader in Mumbai to leading one of India’s most diversified conglomerates. He noted, “His journey illustrates that the future does not always develop as smoothly as it seems in classrooms; it is chaotic, unpredictable, and harsh.” He advised the audience to be prepared to not only follow existing pathways but to also create their own.

He discussed the backstories of the Group’s significant projects:

Mundra Port

Once a marshland, Mundra Port has transformed into India’s largest commercial port. Adani mentioned, “Maps can only guide you to places where others have already arrived. To create something genuinely innovative, one requires a compass, and my conviction served that purpose.”

Carmichael Mine

Located in Australia, this mine was developed despite global protests and financial hurdles. Adani stated, “The Carmichael project is not merely a tribute to coal but rather a testament to our persistence.”

Khavda Renewable Energy Park

A desert area previously thought uninhabitable is set to become the world’s largest single-site renewable energy facility. He remarked, “Barren does not equate to dryness; barren is a place where no aspirations have taken root.”

Dharavi Redevelopment

Adani described this as “the most challenging project of all,” stating that it is “not just about convenience but a matter of conscience.”

“Dharavi is Asia’s largest slum,” he pointed out. “Whenever he flies to Mumbai, the slums below weigh heavily on his conscience, as a nation cannot genuinely prosper while so many of its citizens live without dignity. Many advised against the redevelopment of Dharavi, labelling it too political and risky, but that very reason motivated him to pursue it. The project is not merely about constructing yet another redevelopment initiative; it’s about restoring dignity to the million individuals who played a role in building Mumbai yet have never reaped its benefits.”

Looking towards the future, Adani indicated that India is at a critical juncture, fuelled by demographics, demand, digital infrastructure, and domestic investment. “You will not merely be witnesses to a five-trillion or ten-trillion-dollar economy; you will observe an India evolving into a $25-trillion powerhouse by 2050.”

He encouraged students to be innovators rather than passive participants. “Challenge the very essence of the canvas,” he advised.

“Let your path demonstrate that dreams nurtured on Indian soil can influence the globe. Go forth. Construct. Lead. Roar. India is beckoning you. India is not a dilemma waiting for resolution,” he concluded. “It embodies the solution the world is anticipating.”

Adani wrapped up with a passionate call to action: “Choose character over cynicism. Emphasise contribution rather than convenience. Opt for courage over comfort.”

A Bengaluru resident recently took to social media to express concerns regarding skyrocketing cab fares and the difficulty of securing rides in the city. In the post, the individual detailed their challenges in booking a cab on Wednesday, mentioning that no rides were available.

The resident reported that when they finally managed to secure a ride, the fare was an astonishing ₹415 for a mere 6-km journey.

The post included statements reflecting their frustration: “A cab has not been accepted for over an hour. The prices are inflating rapidly – ₹415 for 6 kms? Is this a joke? This situation is unheard of for me, as I usually plan my departure to avoid these issues, and I’m well within the expected timeframe.”

This post quickly gained traction, resonating with many netizens who empathised with the resident’s situation. Some users even pointed out that Wednesdays were often synonymous with working from home.

One commenter remarked, “I wonder where the supporters of ride-sharing who encouraged against personal transport have gone. Traffic has been painfully slow lately – it’s simply unbearable now.”

Another user shared, “The message from Wednesday is loud and clear – stay home, my friend.”

A third commenter added, “The roads are chaotic this morning. I left at 6:40 am, and it felt like peak hour. Some of this madness involves cows. They don’t move, no matter how much you honk. Regarding surge pricing, the apps monitor the frequency of new bookings from specific locations based on GPS coordinates. The more you try, the higher the price seems to climb. A trick I’ve learnt is to initiate a booking, let it time out, and then try again. This often reveals a lower fare since it shows the cheapest price if a driver cancels after accepting.”

A fourth user suggested, “For distances under 10 kms, I prefer taking my bike. There’s no need to wait for cabs or autos. Rather than endure nearly an hour of frustration, I can simply ride and arrive at my destination. I understand the risk of rain, but with the flexibility to choose my departure time, I can plan accordingly.”

Engineering Student Consideration for Job Offer

A user recently shared on social media regarding an engineering student contemplating the rejection of a ₹50,000 per month job offer from a reputable firm. The post highlighted that the neighbour’s son got an opportunity from Forbes Marshal, known for its prominence in his field, largely due to the costs associated with moving from Ahmedabad to Pune.

Additionally, the user mentioned efforts to persuade the neighbour’s son to accept this job instead of waiting for potentially better offers.

The user stated, “He’s thinking of declining because he has to move from Ahmedabad to Pune, and it’s not feasible to manage living expenses on that salary. I am trying to encourage him to consider this offer as it presents a significant learning opportunity, and he can gain valuable experience for a few years.”

However, the relocation expense was not the only factor influencing the young man’s decision to possibly decline the offer.

“He mentioned that others are receiving offers of ₹1 lakh or more in different fields, prompting him to consider biding his time for better prospects. His parents have invested over ₹15 lakhs in his engineering education, and now he is uncertain about his next steps.”

Interestingly, the neighbour’s son is nearing the end of his engineering studies, with campus placements currently underway. Forbes Marshal, a top company relevant to his study area, is offering around ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 monthly.

“He’s contemplating declining because the relocation from Ahmedabad to Pune is a significant factor.”

The post created a division among netizens, with some arguing that a young adult could easily manage living in Pune on a ₹50,000 monthly salary. Others feel the student is justified in seeking a higher salary due to the costs of relocation and the financial investment his parents have made in his education.

“If I were in his situation, I would accept it. ₹50,000 per month would help manage the first year in Pune. Affordable and good food options are widely available,” a commenter noted.

“The issue lies in how he is comparing himself to others. Instead of evaluating how this role might benefit him and bring him closer to his aspirations, he’s measuring his worth against someone else’s salary, which is a significant oversight,” wrote another user.

“Young people often chase ‘better’ offers due to the hefty ₹15 lakhs investment. While his parents may be fine with a ₹50,000 monthly salary, he personally struggles with that decision. Accepting the offer seems wise, but such thoughts are hard to ignore,” observed yet another netizen.

“A white-collar job is truly not worth pursuing unless it presents a plan to achieve a ₹5 lakh monthly salary within ten years,” remarked a fourth commenter.

Shocking Wealth of a Mid-Level Inspector Highlights Corruption in India

When discussing the alarming wealth distribution in India, consider this: a mid-level Motor Vehicle Inspector earns a salary of ₹50,000 a month while possessing 44 plots of land, ₹1 crore in cash, 250 grams of gold, and residing in a lavish 3,300 sq ft home. Rather than a billionaire industrialist, this individual’s financial status has sparked national outrage regarding the corruption permeating India’s supposedly “secure” government jobs.

Corruption in Government Jobs

Parth Sanghvi, a risk consultant, captured public sentiment in a viral LinkedIn post when he asked, “Is this why government jobs remain in demand in India?” He indicated that the salary merely compensates for attendance, while significant income derives from the system that citizens fund daily.

A Parallel Economy

Sanghvi’s commentary resonated strongly, articulating the suspicions held by many Indians: beneath seemingly modest salaries lies a vast parallel economy driven by power dynamics, bribery, and unchecked wealth accumulation. If a mid-level inspector can amass this fortune, one can only speculate the wealth held by those in higher bureaucratic positions.

Social Media Reaction

The revelation triggered a social media frenzy, with opinions varying widely. Some applauded the inspector as a prime example of generational wealth creation, while others highlighted the grim reality that by the time such officials are implicated in wrongdoing, they have already secured enough wealth to nullify any repercussions.

Many commentators expressed despair over a system they believe is irrevocably broken, where corruption has become the norm rather than a shock. One user bluntly stated, “India isn’t resource-starved, just bled dry by those sworn to serve it.”

Nuanced Perspectives

Amidst the outrage, a handful of voices offered a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that a flawed system enables misuse by some while overshadowing the integrity of many others. The general agreement? It is not merely one bad apple; rather, the entire orchard is implicated.

This is precisely the insight shared by Sanghvi. The situation does not pertain solely to this one inspector. It reflects a broader system that incentivises silent complicity, punishes those who act with honesty, and allows corruption to masquerade as efficiency.

The comment that might have resonated the most was deeply pessimistic: Babus ka zamana hai. For individuals who refuse to engage in such practices, the consequences can be dire.

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Understanding the Dynamics of Investor Relationships in the UAE

Dubai was on the mind of a founder who arrived with aspirations of securing $8 million—equipped with an impressive pitch deck, backing from VCs in Berlin, and a glittering CV showcasing talent from ex-Uber and ex-Spotify. However, the atmosphere quickly turned chilly. The coffee remained untouched, and the cheque never materialised. What led to this downfall? The missteps were numerous.

Obediah Ayton from Dhabi Hold Co shared insights on LinkedIn regarding how a European founder stumbled into a common trap among investors in the Gulf: speaking a venture language in a setting that values legacy.

The founder possessed traction and credibility, as well as a global perspective. Yet, he lacked an understanding of his audience.

From the outset of the meeting, it became evident, as Ayton noted, that “He was speaking venture. They were listening for value.”

Positioned across from him was a prominent UAE family office—discreet yet well-established in the region, grappling with a legacy retail chain facing challenges in online conversion. The founder’s technology could have addressed this issue. Instead, he commenced his presentation with cap tables, projected valuations, and global benchmarks.

At no point did he inquire about their business. Not once did he tailor his pitch to address their specific challenges.

As a result, they listened politely while enjoying their coffee. Ultimately, they chose not to proceed.

For them, it wasn’t a rejection of innovation; it was a dismissal of pride.

Ayton observed, “He highlighted his board’s credentials but failed to discuss the family’s business.” He predicted valuation increases rather than operational improvements.

In the UAE, Ayton elucidates, family offices do not merely invest in startups; they invest in values. Their focus is on long-term vision rather than quick exits. They prioritise legacy over financial metrics. If a founder cannot appreciate what has sustained their empire for six decades, the growth of Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) becomes irrelevant.

He identifies 11 influential players in the field—firms like Sharaf Group, Albwardy Investments, and MOBH Holding Group—which may not feature prominently in pitch presentations but have clear objectives: alignment, humility, and long-lasting impact.

Ayton states, “The most productive meetings with UAE family offices resemble family dinners rather than investor pitches.” They are free from timers and pressure. Instead, they embody a spirit of quiet observation and intention.

The founder left the meeting believing it was a missed opportunity for the investors. However, what he failed to grasp was the irreplaceable asset that no term sheet can offer: trust.

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Clocking in by 9:30 AM has prompted some employees to question whether workplaces are stuck with outdated, school-like regulations. A note shared in a team chat made it clear that any employee arriving after 9:30 AM without notifying their manager beforehand would be marked for a half-day, irrespective of the circumstances.

The message specified: “This is a reminder that the official reporting time for all employees is no later than 9:30 AM… Arrivals after 9:30 AM without prior intimation will be marked as a half-day as per company policy.”

A Reddit post expressed criticism of this approach, challenging the necessity of such rigid systems in the modern workplace.

“Honestly, are we in school or are we adults? Emergencies, traffic snarls, and everyday life occur. Why do so many firms in India still uphold this outdated mindset of ‘be on time or face consequences’? Shouldn’t the actual work accomplished hold more value?” the user remarked.

The post also highlighted the repercussions of failing to get leave approved or logging attendance, which could lead to unpaid leave, thereby further penalising employees for administrative issues.

Towards the end of the post, the user raised several questions to the community, probing whether others had encountered similar policies and whether it is time for employers, particularly in tech hubs like Pune, to consider more flexible arrangements.

“Does anyone else believe these policies undermine productivity and morale?” the post inquired.

Indian education has often prepared individuals for this kind of environment; it was quite prevalent in earlier times, yet as society evolves, so should these practices. Similar policies are also seen in government offices, although enforcement is rare,” the user added.

Another respondent offered a more critical perspective on the larger ramifications of such policies: “This system seems crafted to create compliant workers rather than innovators or thinkers. Really, with this mentality, how can India compete with countries like China—let alone the USA? We’re still grappling with basic mobile phone production, let alone sophisticated manufacturing. If this trend continues, India risks being confined to a service-oriented economy.”