Festive Fun Or Wallet Burn? Company Asks Employees To Pay For Diwali Bash
An Indian company is facing backlash after allegedly asking its employees to contribute financially to the annual Diwali celebration, sparking a debate about workplace culture and the boundaries between professional expectations and personal expense.
According to a recent Reddit post, the company reportedly requested ₹1,200 from each employee, with team leads expected to contribute ₹2,000. A screenshot of a WhatsApp message circulating within the company detailed the contribution request, further stating that attendance at the Diwali party was "100% mandatory" for managers and their teams. The authenticity of the message has not been independently verified. Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, typically involving family gatherings, festive meals, and the lighting of lamps (diyas) to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. In 2025, Diwali celebrations are expected to commence on October 20.
The request has triggered widespread criticism across social media platforms. Many users questioned the ethics and fairness of companies asking employees to pay for celebrations, especially with mandatory attendance. Some pointed out the potential legal implications and whether such mandatory contributions align with labor laws. One Reddit user wrote, "Imagine asking money from your employees to give a boring party and the venue is bad too". Another user questioned, "Why is it mandatory to attend? Shouldn't that be a choice? What will happen if someone skips it and doesn't pay anything?".
The incident highlights a broader discussion on the evolving dynamics of Indian office culture. Some commentators suggest that blurring the lines between professional and personal life, such as using WhatsApp for official communication, is a sign of disregard for professionalism. Others argue that mandatory celebrations and contributions disregard employees' choices and financial situations.
While some believe that asking for contributions is unusual, others claim this is not uncommon in Indian workplaces. Some companies are cutting back on festival spending. This incident raises the question of where companies should draw the line between festive celebrations and respecting employees' choices.
Diwali celebrations in corporate settings often aim to create an inclusive environment, with activities such as rangoli competitions, distributing traditional sweets, and setting up photo booths. Companies may also offer flexible scheduling to accommodate employees observing Diwali. However, it's important for companies to ensure that celebrations are culturally sensitive and respectful of all employees. Some organizations are now focusing on virtual celebrations and sharing experiences to include remote workers.
As the debate continues, this incident serves as a reminder for companies to strike a balance between fostering a festive atmosphere and respecting the financial well-being and personal choices of their employees.
