Indian Startup’s 12-Hour Internship Offer Sparks Debate Over Work Culture

A San Francisco-based Indian founder has ignited a fierce online debate. He posted a job listing for an intern in Bengaluru. The role offers a ₹1 lakh monthly stipend but requires a 12-hour daily work schedule.

The internship demands work from 11 am to 11 pm, six days a week. This has drawn sharp criticism on social media platforms. Many are calling it a normalization of unhealthy work practices.

Internship Details and Backlash

The founder shared the opportunity on LinkedIn. He stated the company is backed by top-tier venture capital. It already serves Fortune 500 clients.

The role promises a food allowance and a gym subscription. Interns would also work directly with the founders. The search is for top performers with a “can-do” attitude.

Applicants must be “hungry” to prove themselves. The immediate start date and on-site requirement were also specified. According to Reuters, such intense schedules are increasingly scrutinized globally.

Social Media Reaction and Broader Implications

The online reaction was swift and overwhelmingly negative. Critics argue the schedule promotes burnout. They question when an intern would actually use the gym benefit.

One user pointed to a global shift toward four-day workweeks. They stated long hours do not necessarily build better products. Healthy teams are more important for success.

Another comment on X suggested job seekers should “dodge” the offer. The post went viral, sparking a wider conversation. This debate reflects growing tension in Indian startup culture.

The discussion often contrasts international trends with local practices. Employee well-being is becoming a central concern for professionals. This case highlights a significant cultural clash.

The controversy around this Indian startup intern role underscores a pivotal moment. Work culture and fair compensation are now under the microscope. This 12-hour workday debate is far from over.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the exact working hours for the internship?

The internship requires a 12-hour workday from 11 am to 11 pm. This schedule is for six days each week. It is an on-site role in Bengaluru.

What is the monthly stipend being offered?

The intern will receive a stipend of ₹1 lakh per month. Additional perks include meal and gym subscriptions. The total compensation package has been a key point of discussion.

How did people on social media react?

Most reactions on LinkedIn and X were highly critical. Users condemned the normalisation of extreme work hours. Many expressed concern about burnout culture.

What is the background of the company posting this?

The company is a San Francisco-based AI startup. It is tier-1 VC-backed and works with Fortune 500 customers. The founders are based in the US.

Why is this internship posting significant?

It has sparked a major debate on work-life balance in Indian startups. It contrasts with global trends toward shorter workweeks. The conversation highlights evolving employee expectations.