Struggling with Weird Workplace Culture as a Fresher
So, I recently started my first job, and while I knew workplace dynamics could be challenging, I wasn’t prepared for how weird some people can be. For context, I love listening to English pop and hip hop - and apparently, that's a big deal? My coworkers, who have 3–4 years of experience, keep making these comments like, "Auratein sunti rehti hain pure din angrezi gaane" (Only women listen to English songs all day). Excuse me, what does music preference have to do with gender?
It doesn't stop there. If I order something "fancy" for lunch (like pasta or sushi), they act like I've committed a crime against Indian culture. The usual remark is something along the lines of, "Westernized ho gaya hai yeh" (You’ve become westernized). And whenever I try to explain my perspective or push back, they just shut me off with, "Abhi tumne duniya nahi dekhi hai" (You haven’t seen the world yet).
What bothers me the most is how they expect me to follow their outdated notions just because I’m a fresher. When I question their odd behavior or opinions (which are often not even aligned with the constitution or basic human decency), the response is always, "How dare you question a senior?" Like, is being in tech for a few years supposed to make you immune to accountability?
Oh, and the irony? They barely do any work! They’re just coasting because they've been in the industry longer. Meanwhile, I’m busting my ass trying to learn and grow, but instead of guidance, I get unsolicited lectures on how to act, what to eat, and what to listen to.
I get that people are different, and I respect that, but why can’t they extend the same courtesy to me? Why is it such a big deal if I don’t fit into their box?
Am I wrong to feel this way, or is this just a toxic workplace culture?
Edit 1: I am Male, I don't care about what they say I am only against their controlling nature.