The culture of keeping servants and house help differs a lot from country to country. In the western side of the world, it is considered uncommon. Whereas on the South Asian side, it is completely the opposite. In every second house, one can find a house-help or a servant working, and many find it as a job done only by the people in the lower class only. I chatted with Subhash, an 18-year-old boy, who works as a house helper in a house in Chandigarh.
When did you start this work and why?
I was seven when my mother realised she had a house of five kids to feed. Since then, I took on the responsibility to help my parents even if it is the job of a servant. I have three sisters and they all have to get married soon.
The Indian government has made the fees for schools very low and some are free. Why did you not study instead?
I did not want to study. When there is the pressure of being the eldest male child in your house, we are expected to help provide for the family. That is what I have felt were my responsibilities and study was never a priority.
Where is your home and is it tough to travel so far to work?
I’m from a village in Bihar called Darbhanga. I didn’t want to stay there and work. I wanted to come towards the North and to a wealthier city as that would have more money for it as well.
You could’ve worked in a shop or something. Why would you choose to serve a family instead?
My aunt has been working for this family for generations, so it felt safe to work under the people my family knows. In a shop, there is no job stability.
How has your life been in this job? What is your role and how do you spend your day?
I have been very happy and satisfied serving this family. I have friends who have worked elsewhere, and they are often insulted and treated badly. This family has always welcomed me as one of their own. Initially, I was a little sad coming so far from my family, but they welcomed me with open arms. My duties vary from having to clean the house to cook for them. I usually spend my day completing my house duties but at the same time they have two adorable cats, so I love playing with them as well.
How often do you go back home?
Two or three times a year. I don’t go too often as it’s very far and takes a lot of time and money to reach. Mostly during the festivals, I try going but if I am not able to go the people of this house buy me new clothes and we celebrate the festivals together.
How much do you earn in a month? Do you feel satisfied with it?
Rs. 15000 a month which I send back to my family as I don’t have any expenses here. I live with this family, and I have a room of my own. They also provided me with a bicycle to do my chores. I feel very content with the amount I am given at the moment, but I try to be better with my work so that the salary also keeps increasing with time.
Is there something the house or the family you live with has taught you?
They are a very close-knit loving family and they have become my family now. If there is one thing I have learnt from them, it’s that kindness is very important in life.
Do you plan on moving onto another job?
Not really. As I said before I feel very content here and I feel very attached to all of them and especially the cats. I don’t think I will be able to match up to this comfort again.