This is a weird culture here in India. People buy expensive stuff but leave the covers on, hoping that things will last longer. I am Indian but I hate people who do this. They are so narrow minded. They do it for car seats as well. Some people are even crazier. They will buy big TV screens but won't even take off that sticker that covers a small part of the screen. It will say things like technical specs but the sticker will remain even after a year! lol - I never leave that stuff on though. In fact, I have got into fights with friends and relatives because I rip off the plastic and they get mad!
I've known people in the USA that do this. I think it means more that they want to keep the quality intact. What I find strange are the guys that like keeping the tags on their hats and shoes. "Yeah dude, we all know you paid $35 for your hat, congratulations!"
