Retirees Refocus: India’s Seniors Embrace Second Careers

Retirement in India is undergoing a transformation, shifting from a period of inactivity to one of renewed purpose, with many seniors actively seeking opportunities for personal and professional reinvention.

Finding Purpose and Income Post-Retirement

Dissatisfied with the quiet life after retiring from his government job in New Delhi, **Chandan Chatterjee**, 74, sought ways to remain active and engaged after relocating near Kolkata. “I thought I’d volunteer,” he said, eventually seeking more fulfilling avenues for his time and expertise.

Across India, retirees are increasingly viewing this life stage as an opportunity to pursue part-time employment, advisory roles, and even entrepreneurial ventures. Platforms like RetirementJobs.in and WisdomCircle are witnessing a surge in retirees eager to remain professionally relevant. Even Airbnb has noted a rise in senior hosts achieving “superhost” status.

Driving Forces Behind the Trend

Increased life expectancy coupled with financial and emotional needs are key factors. RetirementJobs.in reports that 80% of retirees actively pursue work. Motivations range from affording healthcare to avoiding obsolescence.

Life expectancy in India has risen. The expectation of life at birth in India was estimated at 69.8 years for 2017-21, a slight decrease from 2016-20. However, life expectancy at age 60 stands at 18.1 years (SRS data), with 17.2 years for males and 19.1 years for females. Urban life expectancy jumped from 65.4 years in 1990-1994 to 72.9 years in 2017-21.

According to the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), over 1.68 million people in India retired in FY23, highlighting the growing pool of experienced individuals seeking post-retirement engagement (Financial Express).

Financial Realities and Reinvention

Many retirees face financial constraints. A Grant Thornton Bharat study revealed that many Indians are underprepared for retirement, particularly those in the private sector. A significant 56% plan to retire between 55 and 65, with 83% relying on EPF, gratuity, and NPS. While 55% anticipate needing over 100,000 rupees monthly, only 11% believe their investments will suffice.

To address financial gaps and find fulfillment, many are embracing digital platforms. **Nisha Madhulika**, 65, is a highly successful YouTuber, while **PR Sundar**, 61, has a large following as a financial advisor.

Airbnb and the Sharing Economy

**Tarun Malik**, 62, a superhost in New Delhi, rents out space in his villa, continuing his parents’ legacy while earning income. “Since most guests realise I am a senior citizen they respectfully address me as ‘Sir’. Other than that, they do not give me any concession and have similar service expectations from me as they would from a younger host,” he says.

**Ragini Singh**, 72, has been hosting travelers since 2007. “I’ve been in the travel trade since 1982, so I understood what jetlagged guests needed. Home-cooked meals, warm welcomes, a soft landing before their India tour began,” she recalls.

Leveraging Expertise in Second Careers

Retirees are also finding opportunities in traditional sectors. Retired engineers are consulting, ex-bankers are advising microfinance institutions, and educators are mentoring ed-tech platforms. WisdomCircle connects seasoned professionals with organizations needing their expertise.

“We’ve seen strong traction across industries where domain expertise and institutional knowledge are critical, such as infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, healthcare, social impact, BFSI (banking, financial services, insurance) and education,” says **Niharika Kabra** from WisdomCircle.

**Manish Khandelwal**, 56, found a position at Battery Foil-Hindalco Industries through WisdomCircle. **Ramachandran RS**, 63, now serves as CTO at The Association of People with Disability in Bengaluru. “It is a boon for people like me who are in search of a purpose post their retirement,” he says.

Flexibility and Motivation

Remote and hybrid work options are enabling retirees to contribute on their own terms. Engagement and feeling useful are key motivators, often outweighing high salaries.

**Ashish K Ghosal**, 62, received a consultancy contract extension immediately after his farewell from an IT firm. “It allowed me to contribute meaningfully without being on the sidelines. Everyone in my circle wants to work,” he says. “Not for the money. Just to be of use.”

Beyond Professional Reinvention

For some, like **Ramesh Chandra Bhatt**, 64, retirement is about community service and spiritual growth. He dedicates his time to helping others and raising awareness about social issues.

Addressing Risks and Ensuring Inclusivity

As more seniors engage online, the risk of scams increases. Retirement platforms are implementing measures to vet employers. Moreover, while historically more men sought post-retirement opportunities, there is a rising trend of women seeking these roles.

Looking Ahead

By 2036, over 230 million Indians will be over 60. As **Manoj Deebak**, founder and CEO of RetirementJobs.in notes: “In our portal, we have people from lower-ranking officials to retired IAS officers, with immense knowledge on things which most corporates want. The enthusiasm for the initiative gave us the push we needed. We’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from retirees who are now engaged and satisfied with their second innings.” This growing demographic is increasingly educated, mobile, and tech-savvy, yet also vulnerable. The trend towards active retirement reflects a desire for financial security, mental stimulation, and human connection.