Growing up in India about 20 years ago, we often repaired or renewed almost everything because our buying power was low and things were expensive. We used a lot of hacks, known as *jugaads*, to make things work. Even clothes were reused, with tailors doing *rafu* (patchwork) to extend their life. This was especially common in middle-class homes like mine.
My dad, who worked in a garment export house, used to tell me stories about how people in the West preferred disposable items and often opted for newer stuff, whether it was cars, gadgets, or clothes. At the time, I didn't understand this mentality. But now, with increased buying power and lower costs (thanks to China), we too tend to just chuck things away and get replacements.
I deeply admire people who don't give up midway and think it's easier to buy new. This type of persistence and resourcefulness is truly commendable.
My dad, who worked in a garment export house, used to tell me stories about how people in the West preferred disposable items and often opted for newer stuff, whether it was cars, gadgets, or clothes. At the time, I didn't understand this mentality. But now, with increased buying power and lower costs (thanks to China), we too tend to just chuck things away and get replacements.
I deeply admire people who don't give up midway and think it's easier to buy new. This type of persistence and resourcefulness is truly commendable.