A Mumbai resident named Manuraaj Garg has shared an unusual tale of financial success through his cook, who earns a monthly income of Rs. 1.05 lakh by catering to multiple households and film crews during night shoots. In a LinkedIn post, Garg compared the cook's financial situation with that of his MBA-educated friends, highlighting the former's income diversification, manageable expenses, and relative financial security.
The cook earns money through various assignments, charging Rs. 18,000 for preparing meals twice a day at Garg's home, Rs. 16,500 at another flat in the same building, and Rs. 38,000 from a nearby family for cooking and kitchen-related work. Additionally, he works on Friday nights at a film set, earning Rs. 7,500 per night by preparing food for crews during night shoots. His wife also contributes to their combined income of approximately Rs. 1.5 lakh, as she earns Rs. 45,000 monthly.
Garg contrasted the cook's financial reality with that of his MBA-educated friends, who may earn higher salaries but have significant deductions due to taxes, EMIs, and childcare expenses. The cook's earnings are not reflected in conventional employment records, as he operates outside the formal system. However, his work comes with a degree of flexibility, income diversification, and job security, as he has four employers and works within a two-kilometer radius.
The cook is planning his first international holiday to Thailand, marking his first flight and passport. Garg shared travel tips with him, recommending popular attractions, street food, and renting a scooter. Their conversation moved beyond the employer-employee relationship as they exchanged travel stories and plans.
In conclusion, Garg offered a different perspective on financial well-being, stating that the cook is not poor or rich but falls into a category that our spreadsheets don't account for: a man whose financial math still works. The cook's story highlights the importance of multiple income sources, manageable expenses, and personal choices in shaping a financially secure life.