From Begging to Informing: How India and Singapore's Work Cultures Differ Dramatically

In recent days, a viral video by an Indian tech professional working in Singapore has reignited discussions about the stark differences between work cultures in India and Singapore. The video highlights deep contrasts around employee autonomy, leave policies, and work-life balance, reflecting broader cultural shifts in workplace expectations across countries.

The individual, Aman Vaishnav, shared how in India he often felt compelled to "beg" for leave, resorting to fabricating emergencies just to secure time off—especially Fridays—forcing employees to justify their absence extensively. In sharp contrast, his experience in Singapore has been transformative, where he emphasizes that workers simply "inform" their managers when taking leave without needing elaborate explanations. This cultural shift has allowed him to firmly separate work and personal life, stating, "After 6 pm, my phone belongs to me, not my boss—no calls, no guilt, just life."

The message underscores a fundamental mindset difference: Indian workplaces frequently expect overwork and detailed justification for personal time, reflecting what many call "toxic" or exploitative work cultures, whereas Singapore promotes a "growth culture" where boundaries and employee well-being are respected.

This commentary struck a chord online, with many Indian professionals relating to the pressure of rigid work norms and expressing envy or hope that such liberating work culture models might take root in India. One user commented, "Hope GenZ change this in India," highlighting generational desires for healthier work environments.

Experts and commentators note that such cultural expectations deeply impact employee mental health and productivity. Singapore's approach aligns with global trends advocating for clear boundaries between office hours and personal time, essential in an increasingly connected world.

While India's ambitious and competitive work environment has driven rapid economic growth, balancing productivity with humane policies remains a challenge. The viral content encourages reflection on how evolving mindsets and remote work trends may pressure Indian industries to reexamine punitive leave policies and embrace trust-based management.

In conclusion, the comparison between India and Singapore's work cultures exemplifies a broader global conversation on worker rights and organizational behavior, pointing to Singapore as a model of healthier work-life integration that India may aspire to achieve.