Mumbai didis’ silent power: how guilt and dependence shape domestic work dynamics

In Mumbai, domestic workers, affectionately called didis, form an intricate and powerful matriarchal network that quietly underpins the city's households. These women are more than mere helpers; they are described as the "quiet backbone" of homes, often sacrificing their own well-being.

Each didi operates within a designated "sector," a sacred territory that governs where they work, when they strike, and whom to avoid. This territorial system creates a unique social order, with residents and workers aware of each other's habits and reputations — for example, "A-602 is stingy, B-703 has CCTV, C-305 calls you on holidays." This knowledge shapes the dynamics of domestic work.

"However, at its core, the househelp network in multiple Mumbai societies remains a matriarchal spectacle. They fight. They forgive. They unionise. But the highlight? Within this matriarchy, there are no ladders. Only thrones!"

The relationship between employers and didis is deeply influenced by emotions of guilt and dependence. Guilt wields power, and dependence creates complex bonds where the didis often understand the subtle levers of influence. "Guilt has power, and so does dependence. She likely knows what moves you and sometimes, you know you
9re being played."

This dynamic reveals a silent power structure where domestic workers maintain control and influence, balancing conflict and cooperation within their communities. Their role transcends traditional employment, embodying a social matriarchy that shapes Mumbai's domestic work landscape.

In Mumbai, domestic workers, known as didis, form a matriarchal network that silently sustains households while navigating complex dynamics of guilt and dependence. Their territorial sectors and social codes shape work relations, reflecting a unique power structure where forgiveness and unionizing coexist without hierarchical ladders.