‘I’m mentally exhausted’: 6-year-old engineer’s 6-day work record sparks debate over working life in India
For many young graduates, getting a job after college should be the beginning of financial freedom and career growth. But for the 25-year-old engineer from Hyderabad, it has instead been a case of constant work, less time and growing frustration. His definitive post on Reddit about working six days a week has struck a chord with thousands of professionals facing the same dilemma.The scientist, a 2023 graduate of IIIT Nuzvid, shared that despite being three years old, he continues to work six days a week with little time left for him or his family. His controversial post has now sparked a huge discussion online about work life, employee well-being, wages, labor laws and whether India’s construction and engineering sectors need urgent reforms.
‘Sunday is for recovery’: A habit that many can relate to
In his letters, the engineer explained what many experts knew well. He wrote that every day when he goes home from work, he has enough energy to finish the housework or spend time with his family. Sundays, instead of providing rest or enjoyment, are spent in the exhaustion of the last six days before another week of work begins.He also revealed that he currently earns Rs 23,000 per month after joining the company at Rs 20,000 in 2023, earning only Rs 1,000 per year. According to him, a large part of his salary goes to rent, support his family and travel expenses, leaving nothing for savings.What disappointed many readers was not the long working hours but the feeling that the workers were often idle. The expert said that despite looking for other jobs, several companies in the group continue to work six days, which makes it difficult to find a good way to find work without changing industries.
Reddit’s IIIT graduates highlight the challenges of working life for India’s young professionals
Internet users say the problem goes beyond one company
Reddit’s discussion grew faster than a single worker’s reaction. Many users who work in architecture, construction, sales and IT said that they can relate to the struggle of six working days and long hours.Some experts say that real estate jobs often require a grueling schedule, while others have pointed out that manufacturing and consulting jobs, especially in multinational companies that operate overseas, often offer five-day work weeks and healthy working conditions.Many commentators have said that this article reflects a strong concern about employment in other sectors. Discussions also focused on worker welfare, overtime policies, workplace safety and reduced enforcement of labor laws. A few users encouraged engineers to explore opportunities in consulting firms, multinational corporations or foreign markets where operational resources could be more sustainable.Others, however, have found that changing careers is easier said than done. Unpredictable schedules, limited openness and financial responsibilities often prevent employees from moving quickly, even if they are unhappy with their workplace.
A conversation that sounds better than an engineer
The informational discussion has also shown how discussions about work life are becoming more and more common among young workers in India. While many professionals recognize that sometimes heavy workloads are unavoidable, they also believe that long work weeks, limited personal time and stagnant pay can take a toll on performance and morale.The post did not resonate with architects and other industry workers who say they often struggle to maintain a healthy balance between professional work and personal life. As more people share their experiences on social media, workplace expectations and employee well-being are becoming part of the larger national conversation.Whether this growing public debate will ultimately lead to policy change or workplace culture change remains to be seen. Meanwhile, what engineers write from the heart is a reminder that behind every project, office buildings or development centers are professionals who expect not only the growth of work, but also the time and energy to enjoy life beyond work.Disclaimer: This article is based on social media discussions and reflects the opinions, experiences and opinions shared by internet users. TOI Education have not independently verified the information stated in the original post or comment. Readers are advised to view the media content as anecdotal and not as conclusive evidence of workplace activity in any organization or industry.
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