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Youth today needs freedom from the set notions of society and often considered rebels. Be it choosing subjects post Std X, or making career decisions, the youngsters seem to be advised by parents almost all the time.
The popular notion is that they don’t like such intrusions. But is it true? Not if you were to ask Gen Y today who are not only trusting their parents’ decisions but also assisting them in business ventures. Metrolife spoke to youngsters who are now taking up their family businesses either as a pastime or to learn a new skill or even to carry on the family legacy.
What starts as a part-time affair with youngsters frequenting their parents’ business during vacations carries within it the potential to turn into a full-fledged profession.
Take for example, Manish Taneja, a BCom Hons student of Delhi University who is currently free as his college is closed for vacations.
“Sitting and chatting the whole day with friends doesn't suit me,” says Manish who has set his mind to help his parents in their business during vacations. “Till the vacations are on, I am going to assist my parents in their rain-water harvesting business. Since there is a lot of work load at the moment, it is better I help them rather than go out to search for an internship.”
Even if interests and streams are poles apart, youngsters are willing to let go of egos to sign up for the family business in free time. Atin Aggarwal, a first year Hotel Management student, often winds up his studies to land up at his father’s utensil shop. “Instead of wiling away time, I feel it is better to lend a helping hand to my father. I often finish work and head to his shop. Not only is it good time pass but also provides me confidence to deal with customers.”
Then there are those who have decided to opt for the family enterprise full-time. Chaitanya Pathak, a Std XI student regularly goes to his father’s chemist shop along with his elder brother, Ashu Pathak. “I find homework boring.
Attending customers at the shop is more practical and interesting.” Following in the footsteps of Ashu, Chaitanya loves the time he spends in shop. “Managing my father’s business is what interests me and that is the reason I have opted for science stream so that I can take over the shop after my graduation.” He feels that the choice is any day better than becoming a doctor as it requires huge donations which can be avoided and yet I can have a good career.
It is this planing for future which has made Surya Prakash Rathore, a II year BBA student, join his father’s transport business. “I used to see my father work when I was a child and decided that I will join him when I grow up. My choice of subject that is BBA is a conscious decision as it will make me eligible to handle his business in time to come,” says Surya.
He is often spotted more at his father’s office than in classes for obvious reasons. The fringe benefits are too good to be ignored. Most of them get paid for their time and efforts - so pocket money is earned rather than accepted as a dole. Has the wheel come full circle?