I grew up in an Army environment marked by discipline, integrity, work ethics and staunch beliefs. And the more time I spent with rules, the more I decided to never work in such a stifling atmosphere. I don’t have personal issues with an immaculate work culture, but just need a free spirited, vibrant, new-age office to work in. I could never see myself going ‘Yes, Sir’, ‘No, Madam’ and nodding to orders that came my way. It’s a free world, after all, isn’t it?

One of the many reasons I decided to come to Mumbai to pursue my passion was the amazing work culture tales I had heard from friends. My first day started out great; my new office did not have long rows of dull desks or arrogant men-in-suits. Large windows with white curtains billowing, community tables and cool personal laptops, quirky art flattering plain walls and cheerful faces, were what welcomed me and I couldn’t have been more ecstatic.