New Delhi: A 24-year-old graduate from the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Delhi has triggered a wider conversation on workplace stress after revealing why he walked away from a high-paying corporate banking job. Despite earning nearly Rs 17 lakh annually, Chirag Madaan said the growing pressure and lack of work-life balance led him to quit.
High-paying job, rising stress
Madaan shared his experience in a viral video, explaining that his decision was not sudden but the result of ongoing stress. What initially started as a typical 9-to-5 role gradually extended into longer working hours, often stretching from 9 am to 7 pm.
He also pointed out that the workweek increased from five days to six, leaving little time for rest or personal commitments.
Limited breaks, strict rules
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In the video, Madaan described how even basic breaks became difficult to manage. Lunch breaks were restricted to just 10 to 15 minutes due to constant workload demands.
Taking leave was also challenging. Employees reportedly had to provide detailed explanations even for sick leave, making it harder to step away when unwell.
Pressure to meet targets
A major source of stress, according to Madaan, was the aggressive sales targets. Employees were expected to close deals worth up to Rs 10 crore and failure to meet these goals led to increased pressure and repeated performance reviews.
Over time, the continuous demands began to affect his overall well-being, prompting him to reconsider his career path.
Viral video sparks debate
His story quickly gained traction online, resonating with many young professionals working in similar high-pressure environments. Users described his experience as “relatable” and “a reality check”, highlighting the prevalence of such work cultures.
While some praised his decision to prioritise mental health over salary, others shared similar experiences, calling for companies to adopt more balanced and humane work practices.