“`html

Life in 1970 vs 2025: A Comparative Reflection

A viral LinkedIn post examining the differences between life in 1970 and 2025 has ignited a nationwide conversation regarding whether the middle-class experience in India is now more manageable or challenging. Former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra, aged 80+, has engaged in this discussion, suggesting that modern advantages and dual incomes indicate that “the 2025s are undoubtedly better” than the simple, linear lifestyle she experienced five decades ago.

Modern Life vs The 1970s

In response to the viral LinkedIn post lamenting the difficulties of 2025, Chandra provided a personal perspective, contrasting past and present. Chandra stated that “the 1970s were linear but very limiting.” She explained that the middle class faced the challenge of either living in joint families or dealing with the stress of making ends meet. “Expenses were constantly monitored… Going abroad on just one salary was unthinkable,” she noted.

Benefits of Today’s World

Chandra remarked that contemporary living presents more freedom and convenience due to digital advancements, increased incomes, and dual-earning households. “In 2025, the middle class typically owns or rents well-located property. Dining out, paying for children’s educational fees, and extracurricular activities is within the reach for many,” she added.

Highlighting technology’s impact on daily life, Chandra pointed out that “online shopping and digital payments have transformed the monotonous task of managing bills… Travelling for vacations, staying in quality hotels, and flying instead of taking trains has become normal for a large segment of the population.”

Empowerment in Urban Living

Chandra also emphasised safer urban environments, houses secured with CCTV, access to fitness resources, and the ability to change jobs as a sign of a more empowered generation. “When skill enhancement or re-skilling is required, individuals adapt and increase their market value with each job transition,” she stated.

She concluded with a thoughtful reminder for younger audiences: “Consider your arguments carefully. Grandmothers and grandfathers possess insights, experiences, and intelligence!”

As an 80+ individual, Chandra aims to contribute to the 70s versus 2025 discussion surrounding work-life dynamics. She observed, “The 1970s were linear but very limiting. The middle class faced the dilemma of joint family living or the pressure of making ends meet. One was constantly managing expenses…”
— Shailaja Chandra (@over2shailaja) June 24, 2025

Chandra’s remarks followed entrepreneur Himanshu Kalra’s LinkedIn post that contrasted life in 1970 with the current competitive and often chaotic landscape. He expressed that “In 1970… life was secure,” but by 2025, “one begins with debt, risks becoming outdated in two years, continuously upskills… and both earners work merely to support a single child.”

His post resonated with various audiences, generating reactions that ranged from agreement on inflation and mental stress to more optimistic viewpoints regarding opportunities for growth. However, it was Chandra’s experienced and candid insights that grounded the dialogue, reminding participants that progress and challenges are seldom one-dimensional.

“`