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Journalism of Courage
A video featuring Indian businessman and former Shark Tank judge Ashneer Grover has gained significant attention on social media. In the video, Grover can be seen criticising the atmosphere at Ernst & Young (EY), describing it as “lifeless”. He recounts visiting one of EY’s offices, saying he felt so uncomfortable with the subdued environment there that he excused himself by faking a health issue.
“It was extremely quiet. They were all so lifeless as if just their final rites were left,” Grover remarked during an event.
The video has sparked conversations about work culture, especially following the tragic death of 26-year-old EY employee Anna Sebastian Perayil. Anna, a chartered accountant from Kerala, was based in EY’s Pune office. Her mother had raised concerns in an email to EY India chairman Rajiv Memani, alleging that stress played a critical role in her daughter’s demise.
Grover said that workplaces labeled as having a “toxic culture,” are often where conflicts and disagreements occur, and are actually the most productive environments. According to him, while there are many so-called “non-toxic” workplaces, it’s in these more contentious spaces that the real work happens.
Watch the viral video:
Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises, shared the video of Grover on X, expressing his disbelief with the caption: “It’s baffling to see anyone advocate for a toxic environment.” The video has gained significant attention on social media, racking up 2.2 lakh views and receiving 1,400 likes so far. Numerous users have also expressed their disapproval in the comments, criticising the remarks made by Grover.
One user wrote, “It depends on individuals to create work culture around them. Set yourself work targets, follow it to the T; don’t overload yourself! Learn to say no.” Another person wrote, “One should immediately resign from a toxic job. No need to suffer and loose your peace of mind and health. Health is most important.”
