Archive · 25 Jul 2025
India's Blue-Collar Perception: A Comparison with US Practices
This article talks about how people in India sometimes don't respect jobs that require special skills, like being a plumber or a barber.
The author shares stories about how these jobs are viewed differently in the US, where the workers are seen as professionals.
In India, these jobs are often looked down upon due to social expectations and the caste system.
The author contrasts the pride and respect shown to skilled workers in America with the lack of it in India, particularly focusing on the attitude towards blue-collar workers and their aspirations.
Industrialist Subroto Bagchi reflects on India's attitude toward blue-collar jobs.
Bagchi contrasts experiences in the US with those in India, highlighting differing views on skilled labor.
He describes interactions with a plumber and Molly Maid staff in the US, noting their professionalism and respect.
In India, he observes a barber, Upendra, and reflects on the societal undervaluing of his profession.
The article suggests that in India, blue-collar work is often seen as less desirable, influenced by caste and social status.
- Who
- Industrialist Subroto Bagchi.
- What
- An examination of India's attitude towards blue-collar jobs, contrasting it with experiences in the US.
- When
- The article covers experiences from 1990s to present times.
- Where
- Focuses on experiences in the US (Silicon Valley, New Jersey) and India (Bhubaneswar).
- Why
- To highlight the societal devaluation of skilled labor in India compared to the US, influenced by cultural and caste factors.
Societal Expectations in India
Professionalism and Respect
Job Perception
Societal Expectations in India
Blue-collar jobs are less desirable, often leading to a perception of low social status.
Professionalism and Respect
Skilled work should be viewed as a source of professional pride.
Inheriting Vocation
Societal Expectations in India
Children are not encouraged to pursue skilled labor jobs like barbering due to perceived social demotion.
Professionalism and Respect
Children should be encouraged to embrace a parent's vocation.
- Author
- Subroto Bagchi
- Setting (US)
- Silicon Valley, New Jersey
- Setting (India)
- Bhubaneswar
- Key Observation
- Difference in treatment and respect for blue-collar workers in the US vs. India
- Source
- The Day the Chariot Moved: How India Grows at the Grassroots, Subroto Bagchi, Penguin India