‘Can you be on the call?’: Viral post sparks anger over Indian managers treating grief as just another workday

An anonymous Reddit post detailing a manager’s request for an employee to work during bereavement leave has sparked considerable discussion about managerial practices in Indian workplaces. The user recounted their experience at a marketing agency, where they had worked for two years. Despite facing regular changes in roles, added responsibilities due to layoffs, and budget constraints, the employee remained committed to their work and team.

The issue arose after the user informed their manager of their grandfather’s passing via a message stating, “Morning sir, my nana passed away last night, won’t be able to come to the office today.” The manager initially expressed sympathy, saying “So sorry to hear that. Take the day off.” However, the tone shifted quickly, with the manager requesting the employee to join an induction call for new clients and to remain active on WhatsApp for further assistance.

This response led the employee to reflect on the lack of empathy in managerial roles, questioning the human aspect of work. The post garnered hundreds of comments, with many users sharing similar experiences or offering advice on addressing such behavior. Some commenters expressed broader dissatisfaction with work culture in India, citing a need for healthier workplace boundaries.

In contrast, an Indian engineering manager shared that when a team member lost their father, they encouraged a two-week leave and discouraged checking work communications during that time, emphasizing the importance of supporting employees during personal crises.