11/05/2026
How many times have we heard, “ These are all jholewalas, they are not professional enough”
Let’s paint a picture of a social sector professional. What comes to mind? For many, it’s the image of the ‘jholewala’ – clad in a comfortable kurta, dupatta, sandals on their feet, a cloth bag slung over their shoulder.
And that picture isn’t wrong; it’s born from the very heart of our work. It’s the uniform of empathy, worn on dusty village roads and while sitting on a charpai, breaking bread and barriers. That attire is a conscious choice for comfort, for cultural connection, and for respect. It’s about being effective, not just making a statement.
But that’s where the stereotype often freezes, giving you an incomplete snapshot of a vast and dynamic world.
From the field to the financial district, from caring for all beings to constitutional debates, our roles are as varied as the challenges we are determined to solve. The jhola is a vital part of our story, but so is the laptop bag, the briefcase, and the backpack.
Our collective closet isn’t defined by a single style; it’s defined by our multifaceted mission. It’s time we see the whole story and start respecting the ‘jholewalas’
I look like a jholewala and I am also an engineer with an MBA. I can build tech and run organisations. What about you?
vallindia vall socialimpact
