Mumbai: A social media post by a Mumbai-based startup founder comparing his Rs 10 cup of roadside tea with his employees’ preference for expensive coffee has triggered a wide-ranging online debate on corporate culture, salary disparities and spending habits in India’s professional ecosystem.
Post that ignited discussion
The discussion began after Kaushal Shah, founder and chief executive officer of Evorbeauty, shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) showing a contrast between his modest choice of chai and what he described as his employees’ fondness for premium coffee from brands such as Starbucks. In his post, Shah wrote, “Here as a founder I drink 10rs wali chai. and here’s what my employees drink,” accompanied by an image meant to underline the difference.
The post quickly gained traction, drawing thousands of views and comments. While some users saw it as light-hearted humour, others interpreted it as a commentary on financial priorities and power dynamics within corporate setups.
Mixed reactions from social media users
The reactions to Shah’s post were sharply divided. A section of users felt that the comparison, even if made in jest, risked reinforcing outdated notions about hierarchy and financial morality in workplaces. They argued that employees’ spending choices should not be scrutinised, particularly when those choices are funded from their own salaries.
Several users pointed out that salaried employees often have a clearer understanding of their monthly income and expenses, allowing them to budget for discretionary spending such as premium coffee. In contrast, founders and entrepreneurs may face irregular income streams and different financial pressures.
“Spending capacity of salaried people is always better. They know exactly how much they make, so they know exactly how much they can spend,” one user commented, echoing a sentiment shared by many others.
Debate on founders versus employees
Another strand of the debate focused on the financial realities of founders. Some users argued that startup founders often reinvest their earnings into the business, draw minimal salaries, and adopt frugal personal habits, at least in the early years. From this perspective, Shah’s choice of a Rs 10 chai was seen as a reflection of entrepreneurial restraint rather than a judgement on employees.
However, critics countered this narrative by highlighting that founders and top executives often have access to company resources and benefits that regular employees do not. One user remarked that founders frequently expense personal costs to the company, making public displays of frugality “performative”.
“Founders are highly likely to expense every penny they can spend to their company. While they may or may not draw a salary. So what’s up with the performative fakery?” another comment read.
Broader conversation on salary disparities
The post also opened up a broader conversation about salary structures and perceived inequalities in corporate India. Some users questioned whether such comparisons subtly normalise pay gaps by implying that employees are less deserving or more indulgent than their employers.
Others took a more balanced view, suggesting that individual preferences and circumstances vary widely and that neither choice — roadside tea or premium coffee — should be morally judged.
“Young man, I get this is just jest and incidental humour, but what a great time to learn this so early… As a founder, your money is not more meaningful than your employees’,” one user wrote, urging a more empathetic perspective.
Changing workplace attitudes
The discussion reflects evolving attitudes in India’s urban workplaces, particularly among younger professionals. For many, spending on coffee or lifestyle products is seen not as extravagance but as a small comfort in demanding work routines. With rising disposable incomes in certain sectors, such choices are increasingly viewed as personal lifestyle decisions rather than indicators of financial irresponsibility.
At the same time, the debate highlights the sensitivity around how leaders communicate publicly about employees. In an era where corporate culture, inclusivity and respect are under constant scrutiny, even casual social media posts by founders can invite intense analysis.
Voices advocating balance
Amid the polarised reactions, some users adopted a conciliatory tone, suggesting that the post need not be overanalysed. They argued that both founders and employees are entitled to their own preferences and that mutual respect matters more than comparisons.
“Good to know both the founder and the employees are happy with their own choices,” one user commented, capturing a sentiment that resonated with those seeking to defuse the debate.
Conclusion
What began as a seemingly light-hearted comparison between a Rs 10 cup of chai and a premium coffee has turned into a broader reflection on money, power and perception in the corporate world. The episode underscores how social media amplifies everyday remarks into larger conversations about workplace equality and respect. As corporate leaders increasingly use public platforms to share their thoughts, the response to Shah’s post serves as a reminder that context, tone and sensitivity play a crucial role in shaping public discourse.