IIT Kanpur Alumnus Compares Bengaluru Career With Mountain Living

An IIT Kanpur alumnus has sparked discussion on social media after comparing life in Bengaluru with that in a small mountain town, arguing that a person's surroundings can significantly influence their perception of success and happiness. In a post shared on LinkedIn, Arjav Modi reflected on his decision to leave his full-time job and spend the past four months in a hill town. He said the observations were based on his personal experience and were not intended to encourage everyone to abandon city life.

In his post, Modi contrasted the lives of two hypothetical 27-year-old professionals. One, he wrote, lives in Bengaluru, earns around ₹40 lakh annually, commutes using ride-hailing services and relies on quick-commerce platforms for daily needs. He noted that such a lifestyle is widely regarded as a symbol of professional success, particularly in India's technology and startup ecosystem.

However, Modi argued that living in a highly competitive environment can also lead to constant comparison with peers. According to him, being surrounded by exceptionally young entrepreneurs and high achievers may create the feeling that one's best years are already behind them. He suggested that such comparisons can contribute to loneliness, dissatisfaction and the belief that others are progressing faster in life.

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Drawing from his experience in a mountain town, Modi said the slower pace of life and different social environment offered him a fresh perspective on success and personal fulfilment. He emphasised that changing one's surroundings can alter the way people evaluate themselves and their achievements. Rather than constantly measuring success through salary or career milestones, he suggested that the environment in which people live also plays a crucial role in shaping their mindset and overall well-being.

At the same time, Modi clarified that he was not advocating for everyone to leave metropolitan cities and relocate to the mountains. Instead, he said his message was intended to encourage people to reflect on how their surroundings influence their emotions, ambitions and definition of success. He stressed that different environments suit different individuals, and there is no universal formula for leading a meaningful life.

The LinkedIn post has resonated with many users, prompting discussions about work-life balance, mental health and the pressures associated with high-paying corporate careers. As conversations around burnout and quality of life continue to gain prominence, Modi's reflections have added to the broader debate on whether professional success should be measured solely by income or also by personal contentment and overall well-being.

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