don't you know rohit verma.

If you understand Hindi then you'll appreciate this little TV advertisement. And if you don't then ask someone to translate it for you. According to statistics 1 in 6 people in the world are Indian - so you should be able to find someone who knows a bit of Hindi.

If you are having trouble finding an Indian in your workplace (and you are outside of India) - just look for the youngest person with the most degree's! Now, I am very, very sure some people will be offended by that (especially those with many degrees!) In case you are one of them ... get back to your MBA textbooks!

I'm not one for self-promotion (actually I am) but I'll let you check this ad out for yourself. PS: there are certain scenes in this clip that happen to me everyday!!

duped in delhi.

I’ve spent a good part of the last six years here in India, and one thing I am still always reminded is: "be careful when you move about, people will always try and cheat you.” I usually shrug off such comments and go about my travels.

The other evening I was walking home from Khan Market (where I teach some English classes) at about 7.30pm. Now this is an upmarket part of Delhi so it is relatively safe, as the Police presence in these parts is quite strong.

I was dressed normally in jeans and a t-shirt, however, no matter how much I try to blend in with the crowd, even with my decent Hindi – I often come across as a tourist. I think it’s the back-pack and hair, which is somewhat different from the usual styles (for those of you don’t know who know me, I used to have dreams of running a chains of hair salons … so hair is very important to me!). Anyway, if it’s not the backpack or the hair, it’s the shoes that give me away – my Nike’s are a one of a kind – got them on eBay for $35!

Ok, back to the story … I was looking my touristy best when a motorcycle pulled up beside me with two guys on it. One of them got off and walked over to me. He was dressed in a cheap bright orange shirt with longish oily hair (could have used my salon services actually!). He looked like a goon, but I make it a point to give people the benefit of the doubt … but sometimes you need to go with your instincts.

He asked if I wanted to buy a mobile phone, and since I was really in the market for one I said, “yeah, maybe.” He pulled out a brand new Nokia N72 and handed it to me. I played around with it for a while then gave it back. He asked how much I would pay for it.

I told him I didn’t have my wallet and only had 1250 rupees (or $40) on me, which I pulled out of my back pocket and showed him. He said it wasn’t enough and wanted more, however he seemed quite desperate for cash. I told him I could offer him no more, and started walking away.

He went back to his motorcycle (which was still running), got the charger and came rushing up to me. He then handed me the phone and charger, said “take it” and grabbed the cash that was still in my hand. He then went off. It all happened so fast.

I was pleased with my great bargaining skills and new my phone!

I stated walking home, cashless but with a 15000 rupee phone. I tried turning it on … but it wouldn’t work. I looked the back of the phone and it had a BIG WHOLE in it filled with CLAY to increase its weight – he had switched the real phone with a dummy!

Actually, I was the dummy in this case! I started laughing and threw the phone into some bushes – it was also the first time I have ever littered! These guys did well ... I have to commend them for their solid efforts! It turned out to be a very expensive charger.

I couldn’t care less about the money, because at the end of the day it was my greed that got me into this situation in the first place. If something is too good to be true it usually is.

But some good has come out of it … it may have cost me $40, but I have a humourous story to share with others for many years to come … Priceless!

india's greatest challenge

What is the greatest problem facing India today?

Most of you are probably thinking of the following: Population, Healthcare, Education, Poverty, Pollution, Corruption & Infrastructure. Yes, these are all VERY legitimate concerns that need to be addressed.

However, there are two more IMPORTANT areas that are largely overlooked:

1.The Social Divide amongst the various Social ‘Classes’
2.Lack of Social Responsibility and Awareness amongst Everyday Citizens

After many years of research into the various challenges faced by India, I am utterly convinced that the only way India can move forward (and address the above-mentioned issues more efficiently) is by bridging its social divide.

The divide is between those who have opportunities (like everyone reading this) and those that do not. I am NOT talking about a financial divide here - rather the 'understanding divide.'

Most of us can intellectually and superficially comprehend the difficulties faced by ordinary Indians; however we cannot truly empathise and understand their struggle. Most of us simply do not have the interest or opportunity to ‘mix’ with those 'different' to us.

If we can establish some level of empathy, understanding and more importantly a dialogue, then we will be more committed to offering solutions to the various challenges faced by the majority of the population.

But how can this be achieved?

Many of you are probably thinking, "this will never work ... I can't see myself having a meal with a rag-picker, street-worker or drug-addict … we have nothing in common." However, in order for us to truly respond to the problems faced by ordinary Indians – we must develop a relationship with them.

However, this dialogue should not only exist through social workers and NGO’s - but it should exist with EVERYONE and anyone. That includes you and I.

Can YOU Help ..

Everyday I meet people who say to me, "I'd love to be involved in some kind of social work.” However, this is as far their desire goes, because people just don’t know where to start.

I believe real social work doesn’t necessarily involve quiting your job, or giving away all your money, or joining an NGO – it involves taking an ACTIVE interest in the lives of those around you.

It also involves having relationships with people from ALL walks of lives. One of the magical things about India is that such diversity exist all around us – we just have to take the time to appreciate the lives of others.

I believe that this ideology must be instilled in young people, since most of our prejudices are formed at an early age. However, this is also an opportunity for adults to set an example for their children.

The Group

I am in the process of forming a group that deals specifically in bridging this gap in Indian society. It will not be an easy challenge, and it will require a lot of time and commitment - but I have to try.

The goal of this group will be a simple one: to bring out the latent social consciences that exist in us all, and help in bridging the social divide in India.

If you are one of those people who likes sending me ‘pseudo-intellectual’ emails full of precedents outlining why this will never work – then please restrain yourself! Send me an email one you have achieved something of real merit.

However, if you think this is an important enough issue to lend your MIND to and start a new life as a social worker - then I would love to hear your ideas and thoughts!

Please email me at rsvindia @ gmail.com ... TODAY!

the BIG question.

I was at a wedding here in Delhi about six years ago being introduced to an elderly gentleman, after he loosened his grip from my hand he asked: “what are your qualifications.”

I was shocked, and somewhat offended by this question - what do qualifications mean anyway? I mumbled something, then went and told my cousin what had happened.

He said, “oh, don’t worry, people ask that all the time in India, they just want to know what you do.” I wasn’t worried, just slightly confused as to why he or anyone would ask this question only a one second after meeting me. Whatever, happened to “how was you day, or are you enjoying the wedding or do you know the bride or the groom!”

I didn’t know the ‘hidden agenda’ in asking this question back then – but I do now. And I am not impressed.

Socially, India is a very strange place to accustom yourself to. People here will ask you very frank (or should that be INTRUSIVE!) questions even after a few minutes of meeting you. They want to know your full life story, from what you (and your parents) do for a living, to how much you earn (YES, it does happen), to why you aren’t married (if you are over 28 years of age)! Nothing is held back, and for any newcomer to this place, it can be a tad overwhelming. Thankfully, I have spent much of the last 6 years in India and NOTHING surprises me anymore - nothing! And, I've realised it is usually family that ask the most questions! Hence the reason I live alone!

Most people in Australia would only ask someone what they did for living to make conversation, or out of some real interest – in India this is rarely the case.

Here, people generally ask what you do or what are your qualification are, or family does, for one reason only – to size you up and place you in predefined ‘class’ of people.

For example, professionals such as Doctor, CA’s, Engineers and IT people are generally one step away from being ordained as one of Jesus's disciples!

However, a working class person, a labourer, electrician, builder, cook or taxi driver is treated with the same contempt as a terrorist, in social standing that is!

Oddly, being wealthy does not automatically place you up the pecking order. Here, the accumulation of degrees which SADLY most see as a sign of intelligence, helps you move up this imaginary social ladder. And the wealthy fruit-shop owner (that may earn 10-times more than a CA), but lacks these paper credentials is not considered worthy of moving up this ladder.

I do wish to point out one thing that I DO NOT believe in any system of 'classes.' It is an entirely 'man-made' system. And that neither money nor degrees can buy a person REAL CLASS - only the quality of their character can.

Sometimes it's a very sad, unmeaningful story observing such pretentious existences here in India. Although the caste system does not formally exist, the class system certainly does. People are judged on a very superficial level, and the quality of ones character means nothing in comparison to ones 'supposed' educational credentials. Class distinction is far more noticeable here in India than in Australia, where people from all backgrounds associate with each other. In India an electrician, labourer or plumber would almost NEVER mix socially with a doctor or MBA - however, this is not the case in Australia where money or education rarely play a factor.

Honestly, I believe that those who are interested in asking these intrusive questions are grossly insecure, needing constant validation that their lives have some meaning. In most cases I am certain they don't!

Hey, I’m no psychologist with a fancy degree though, but I'd sure love to own a fruit shop!

POOR Excuses - What People Say BUT Really Mean

“Poor people are happy.”

If I am able to convince myself that poor people are happy, then I can also justify that they do not need my help. However, if I am to admit they are unhappy, then I may feel obligated to help them. This does not interest me at all.

“NGO’s and Charitable organisations are all corrupt.”

I am aware that NOT ALL NGO’s are corrupt. However, since I do not have the time to personally audit each one, I will refrain from financially and morally supporting their existence. Believing in this untruth make me feel less bad when such groups ask for my assistance.

“I don’t have time to help the poor. I am poor myself!”

I am so self-absorbed in my own existence that the thought of helping others in any capacity is beyond me. I have enough problems in my own life. I work so hard everyday. I have meetings and reports to finish. I am in line for a promotion to Assistant-Regional-Relationship-Manager in four years; I must work long hours. There will always be poor people, but promotions are rare.

“The problems in India are very deep-rooted. You cannot change the system.”

Since I have no respect for my country and its citizens, I am hereby stepping aside from all my social obligations. I will henceforth be an armchair expert on the social problems in India, and will never do anything positive to rectify them. I have a Masters Degree in Criticism.

"There is too much corruption in India."

I understand that India in full of corruption, however, I am not corrupt. I never take bribes – but I see nothing wrong in giving them. India will never change, nor will my attitude towards helping my corrupt, hopeless country.

“People in India are VERY wealthy these days."

My family, friends and I are doing very well these days. We have all the comforts we could ask for. As for the other hundred’s of millions of people in India, I cannot speak for them. I hope they have a chance to visit the new Mega-Hyper-Mall or a Call Centre. India is on the move!

“I would never give to an NGO, I prefer to give my money directly to poor”

I don’t know any poor people, and since NGO’s cannot be trusted, I am hereby absolved from giving. If I ever meet a poor person, then I will surely give to them – but I don’t associate with that class of people.

“I would give more, but I just don’t have the money”

I can afford to spend thousands of rupees on useless junk that adds no meaning or enjoyment to my (or anyone’s) life, but giving that amount to the poor is a waste. They would just spend it on cigarettes or alcohol. Poor people are very uneducated; they do not know how to manage money! The truth is if I can’t give a few dollars today, I will never give it when I have millions – I just don’t have the right attitude towards giving!

“I’m not ready to change the world yet”

Since I have convinced myself that no effort of mine will ever bring about any real change in the world, then it is best that I continue in my merry way. I hereby pardon myself from any thoughts or activities that may require me to listen to my social conscious!

i'm marrying a doctor.

The concept that life is meant to be enjoyed is something most Indians fail to register. Rather, I feel they largely endure life, and are conditioned into following predictable, often mundane paths.

For once, I am not speaking of those living below the poverty line; their plight is another challenge altogether. Instead, I am writing specifically about a more fortunate group of Indians, who have choices and opportunities – but sadly fail to avail of them.

Indians are largely risk averse, generally opting for safety and security. This is hardly surprising given extensive poverty seen in India. Unfortunately, this mentality is not only amongst the poor, but it has passed through all classes of Indian society.

This failure or hesitation to take risks has propelled many Indians into a life of mediocrity; making them incapable of reaching their true potential and making life more difficult to enjoy. I’ve identified the reason why most Indians endure life, choosing conventional paths …

PRESSURE.

Most Indians are under extreme pressure from their infancy, where 3-year-olds are made to sit formal interviews for admission into nursery schools. This pressure then follows them through another 15 years of schooling – where at every level students are made to ensure stressful competitive examinations and ranked amongst their peers.

However, what makes this experience even more insufferable is the unrealistic performance pressure imposed on children by overbearing parents. Many parents are less interested in the psychological welfare of their children, and more in their ability to maintain a high grade-point-average, so their kids stay ‘on top of the class.’

A sad testimony to this is the 1000’s of young people across India that commit suicide each year to ease themselves from this strain.

Does this sound like an enjoyable childhood?

Much of this pressure is societal because of the level of competition seen everywhere in India. However, most of it comes from the family unit – who involve themselves in every decision of their children’s lives, from education and choice of careers, to marriage, and having (and raising!) children.

The Greek Philosopher Epicurus stated that one of the main tenants of happiness was freedom – which in India is generally restricted for most. Certain expectations are ‘imposed’ upon young people in India; often hampering their ability to form a identities of their own. This follows them throughout their life.

I see examples of this is every day; adults that are fearful of making a career change, starting a business, undertaking some form of social work or even taking time off to travel – all because their families will be critical of them. This may be the case, however, many adults use their family pressures as an excuse not to take risks.

One of the most worrying outcomes of confining an individual’s freedom is their loss of creativity – which I believe the most unique gift we have.

I met some parents last week who have a daughter that just finished her schooling. She is a talented musician, singer with an interest in theatre.

When her mother was asked what she was interested in pursuing at university, she declared: ”if my daughter had it her way she’s be studying something media-related, maybe mass communication – however, we are doing our best to get her into a dentistry course – there is no future in those fields she is interested in!"

The thought of following a path that involves any inherent risk will almost always be discouraged. I often ask parents this: “What is the point of sending your kids to the best schools and universities in the world if you can’t trust them to make their own decisions as to their future?" Any Indian parent will tell you it is out of love they control their children's lives. I find a great sense of irony in that claim.

I certainly believe that parents play a crucial role in helping their children make decisions regarding their future. However, what I have found in India, is that this involves less discussion and more direction. Parent's have to appreciate that young people have minds, and dreams of their own. And what they want, may not be what their children want or enjoy.

The concept of autonomy is something most people reading this post in Australia can relate to. Parent's there are comfortable in leaving their children to make decisions as to what they wish to study, what professions they wish to follow, and whom they wish to marry. They are aware that they children may make mistakes, but see this as a part of their personal growth.

It is distressing to see that in this day and age Indian parents cannot see beyond engineering, medicine, MBA’s and other related fields. Even matrimonial advertisements here are almost always seeking brides and grooms with such qualifications … and marrying a doctor is still regarded as the ultimate accomplishment!

Parents, to compensate for their own inadequacies, live vicariously through their children in India: “My son is now an Ultra Super Senior Manager at Global-Hyper-Tech Corporation; he always got top marks at school and college, he has a beautiful wife, and a huge salary!” Whether or not he is enjoying his life is secondary, and will rarely rate a mention.

Why are so many people dissatisfied in the work they do (and this is not just in India)? Because they find themselves engaged in pursuits that do not reflect their potential and stifle their creativity. Any talents or dreams they may have possessed in the past, literally diminishes. Sadly in India, this degeneration begins during childhood, when children are openly discouraged from spending time in activities that are not considered academic.

I understand that due to the level of competition in India, jobs are scarce and professional qualifications are important, however some people are just not destined to follow the 'MBA-TYPE' path. If parents don’t encourage children to take risks and follow their interests, their children may be missing out on enjoying their LIFE.

Due to the level of competition, and high unemployment, 60-plus working hours a week is generally the norm in most industries. Imagine spending your professional life, engaged in something you derived no enjoyment from?

A passionate designer will have a more enjoyable working-life pursuing his or her craft, than being forced into becoming an electrical engineer. No amount of financial compensation can alter this.

There is no simple solution to this pressure epidemic, that not only follows people through their lives, but will also affects future generations.

As a teacher I have always encouraged young people to follow paths they are interested in, not simply marketable. An enjoyable professional-life will always have a positive effect on the other areas of one's life.

However, since parents are the ‘decision-makers’ in India, I will direct this same advice to them and request that they ask their children this question:

What do you want to do with YOUR life?

life sampler.

Since finishing high school some time ago I’ve ‘dabbled’ in a wide assortment of vocational undertakings. I have seen and experienced much during this period. When I reflect upon this time, I am certain the real reason I have not been able to stay focused in one area is that I am yet to embark on anything that I have found significantly challenging.

However, now the time has arisen for me to consolidate these life experiences and create something meaningful. Having such diverse experiences has not only enabled me to determine the kind of endeavors I would like to partake in the future, but also eliminate those activities I wish to shirk.

Today, I can’t envisage myself ever wearing a suit and tie, dealing with an overbearing superiors, or having to ‘apply’ to someone to take leave. And, the thought of spending my days suffocating in a small office developing strategies to increase soap sales in a designated region is hardly motivating.

I am yet to identifying the exact area in which I hope to involve myself, however, I can say with some certainty it will be related to the education system here in India. However, I hope to spend less time in the classroom and more on developing strategic initiatives. There will be no shortage of challenges with the work I am intending to undertake.

Whilst working towards this goal (and living in a place like India!) I am sure to have many crazy, entertaining and downright bizarre experiences … especially when it comes to meeting girls!

If you are interested in hearing these, then please visit this blog through my site rohitverma.net weekly!

Jobs and courses I have 'sampled' over the years …

1. Completed High School
2. Started a Law Degree
3. Sales Assistant at a Retail Store
4. Commerce Degree (Majoring in Marketing & HRM)
5. Masters Degree in Business Systems
6. Media Planner at an Advertising Firm
7. Commercial Real Estate Agent
8. Migration Agent's Course
9. Web Designer
10. Human Resources Consultant
11. Mortgage Sales Consultant
12. Commercial Laundry Washer
13. Waiter at an Indian Restaurant
14. Telecommunications Business Development Manager
15. Post-Graduate Degree in Education
16. Sale Assistant at a Commercial Furniture Store
17. English Tutor
18. High School Teacher
19. Today: A Certified Practicing Ideas Man (CPIM)

the purpose of education.

A few months ago, before arriving in India, I found myself masquerading as an ‘educator’ at a school in Melbourne. At various times (during my many Socrates-inspired epiphanies) I would bring my classes to a halt and ask my students to come sit around the table (I had the tables in all my classes made to resemble boardrooms). Then, as chairman I would address my board of directors – sometimes there would be 26 of them!

I have always believed, contrary to popular belief, that young people today are highly insightful and perceptive. And, for this reason I would always be asking my students questions, on a range of topics – to gain a greater insight into their lives and also to develop in my role as a teacher.

My personal favourite question has always been: "what is the purpose of schooling or education? Unfortunately to this question I usually received the same hackneyed responses: to learn, to be educated, to develop, to learn skills, to get my high-school qualification, I need it for a job and my favourite – because my parents make me! I found all these responses less than inspiring, however, I would have presented similar answers if I were in their position.

I used to list their responses on a whiteboard and discuss the merits and deficiencies of each. Then, I would proceed to give my own definition of education – I prefaced my response as someone who had the experience of being student and a teacher.

“The purpose of education,” I hesitated, “is to learn how solve problems?"

“Whaaat Sir, I don’t get?” was the usual reaction. Let me explain …

I believe everything contains a problem and potential learning solution. At school English, Maths and Science help us solve problems relating to communication, numbers and the living world. In fact all subjects help us solve some problem – yes even History, Art, Dance and Music!

Each problem, regardless of the subject requires a number of steps to be methodically followed, and if done correctly can solution, or end product can be reached.

If we move away from ‘subject’ based problems – you will notice that literally everything we do involves us solve problems – some easier than others. For example, what shoes will I wear today involves a process of deduction, getting to the train station at 9.00 involves time scheduling, organising a party involving careful planning and execution, dealing with difficult people also involves a strategy. And when it come to trying to understand girls (a personal favourite of mine) I have always needed flowcharts, diagrams and focus groups to work them out!

The only problems that cannot be solved are the ones that are ignored, not analysed correctly or are poorly implemented. I strongly believe most problems can be solved given the right approach.

Since coming to India, I have noticed the problems that exist here are challenging and require a great deal of thinking; they are complex and layered.

As a nation, India faces problems unimaginable in the western world – problems that you would not ordinarily read about. Much of my writing will focus on these problems, and I will offer to suggest a suitable responses to each. I am not here to save the world; rather I am here to understand the Indian puzzle better, and I am always looking for others willing to help.

you do what.

The following are professions that you hear about all the time, they sound semi-important – but most of us 'regular people' have no idea what they do on a day-to-day basis! If you don’t believe me then ask the person next to you what the following people actually do ...

1. Management Consultant
2. Electrical Engineer
3. Business Analyst
4. Chartered Accountant
5. Systems Analyst
6. Microbiologist
7. Economist
8. Actuary
9. Supply Chain Manager
10. Boilermaker
11. Software Engineer
12. Auditor
13. Procurement Manager
14. Logistics Consultant
15. Politician

toothpaste salesmen.

Where will the highest academic achievers find themselves at the end of their schooling? The supposed crème often find themselves at a prestigious educational institution; in India that may be an IIT or IIM, in the USA it could be a Harvard or Yale - or any other of the 100's of leading institution across the world.

At the conclusion of their college degrees they find themselves being lured by consulting firms, financial brokerages, IT companies, beverage and consumer goods manufacturers. They only hire the brightest and best.

Over the next few years they are worked long hours and their minds are taken full advantage of. They have little reason to complain, as they are adequately reimbursed for the experiments conducted on them!

No, I am not radical socialist, nor am I adverse to ‘the corporation,’ rather I wish to point out a startlingly oversight.

There are another group that need these minds to solve problems that are (dare I say it) more important than increasing toothpaste sales, selling life insurance and adding 'new tastes' to cola drinks. And it's not just the college-leavers I'm talking about - it's everyone with a great mind!

These minds are needed by Government organisations, schools, hospitals, aid and welfare groups and other social service institutions.

There is a brilliant show on TV named HOUSE, about a doctor who treats rare medical conditions. I often joke with my brother (who finished school with a score of 99.25%, and now spends his days making PowerPoint presentations toothpaste factory executives) by saying … “Look at this guy House, he’s solving real life changing problems, what are you management consultants doing!”

His response is always in typical consulting fashion … “I’m a corporate doctor, I make company executive feel better about themselves!"

Now, before I am accused of being a hypocrite – let me say I am not discounting the work corporates do, nor am I judging those who work with them. Rather I am giving credit to these minds - if they can help turn soda and cigarette companies into efficient multi-billion dollar industries - just imagine what they could do for health or education systems across the world.

Unfortunately since social organisations cannot compete with corporate in regards to funding talent, the decision has to be intrinsic. And I believe that if 10% of the best corporate minds, gave a little of their knowledge and expertise to solving social problems, the changes could be enormous.

I will talk further about this issue in future posts. However, if you are reading this and believe you have a brilliant analytical, thinking, decision making minds that isn't being fully utilised to it's fullest, then maybe you need to think about where it should and could be put to best use ...

subway eat less.

Customer service is something I have always taken for granted in the Australia, and having spent my early working days at a department store, I've learnt a thing or two about it. In Australia, when we don’t get the service expected we can be sure that a letter of complaint will address our grievances. Usually it is only old people (like my father!) that have the time to pen their objections to corporate complaint departments – but the point is someone will listen, and take action.

However, the concept of customer service is something that has yet to take off in India – and it is usually only those who have been abroad that can notice the disparity. If you have a complaint, then you can rest assured no-one will listen, and if someone does pay you the courtesy to listen – they will almost never care enough to act.

I’ve been here long enough not to have too high expectations. A few years ago I used to get slightly annoyed with service levels; however today, I am starting to find my experience nothing short of comical!

This is what I observed when I walked into the Subway (an International fast food chain) recently.

1. The store was empty of customers – but 5 staff were 'on duty’
* Too many staff for a store of that size

2. I waited 2-minutes to be acknowledged by a staff member
* He was too busy doing paperwork, which could have waited

3. My order was taken, then I was told to wait for another staff
* He could have made my sandwich himself

4. The new guy then proceeded to serve me
* He took his time getting started (more into the TV that was on)

5. I was offered me salt and pepper I said "NO thanks" clearly
* 30 second later he forgot and put salt and pepper in!

6. I assumed he would give me a new roll
* He proceeded to scrape off the salt / pepper into a tissue!

7. I told him it would be a better option to make a new roll
* He proceeded to do so reluctantly

8. I decided to settle the payment for my order during this time
* The 'paperwork guy' complained that he had no change

9. I told him that this was not my problem
* He managed to find the change

10. He handed me a huge wad of notes and change
* I checked my bill and I was charged twice and much

11. I asked for my money back and left the store
* I didn’t feel like eating there after all the commotion

12. I went to Domino’s next door!