Lights up the Diwali gifting season this year, however, all that will sparkle is an increase in India Inc. gifting budgets during the auspicious time. Including thoughtful presents such as traditional dry fruit-chocolate and festive bonuses, Diwali season gifting has evolved further. As per the Economic Times, companies have begun offering ecologically friendly products, and wellness products, and have even allowed employees to browse curated gifts through online portals.
These options of customized gifts are supposed to result in more meaningful gifts that relate better to the varied interests of the employee workforce. Recently, a video released by an alleged Reliance employee went viral wherein she flashed her gift from Diwali – a box of dry fruits.
Poor Diwali gifts from Jio company or maintaining the tradition?
The video, titled “Diwali gifts from Jio company,” went viral, and thousands of viewers took to social media to react to the video. Social media sites saw people make jokes about the traditional dry fruit gift and reflect on company gifting policies. “Where’s the Haldiram soan papdi? ” quipped one of the commenters, while another user noticed, “Fun fact: Every year, only the colour of the box changes; the gift remains the same.”
While dry fruits remain the most popular Diwali gift, the trend of more customized and sustainable gifting is part of a broader shift. Tata and Reliance are being questioned not only over the kind of gifts they give but also the consistency and fairness in gifting. Some employees even feel that the gifts should better reflect the stature of the company.
This year, an interesting online debate has ignited around “What did you get for Diwali?” and everyone is champing at the bit to share their comparisons. It is often more than just gift-giving for many for Diwali; this is where companies are expected to contribute towards goodwill-building and appreciation of employees through meaningful methods.