As I gazed at my husband who was almost comically balancing himself on a tree trying to fix the decorative string lights, it made me pause to think about all the festivities and how these traditions have not only shaped us but have been a part of learning even in the professional context.
Diwali, a festival of decoration, lights, puja, mithai and gifts, brings with itself fond memories of childhood, of helping mom prepare savouries and Rangoli. Here’s what I have observed through the years how communities are created by these traditions and how celebrations foster everlasting bonds :
Cleanliness is Next to Godliness
Table of Contents
In the days leading to Diwali, preparations of cleaning and decorating the house (or office) begins. It is that time of the year when the entire family helps in cleaning and the ritual is not just limited to the women in the household (You will agree that in most Indian homes, it is usually the women in the house who are responsible of the upkeep of the house). Cleaning of the house is not just about the mess but more so to do with the fact that everyone in the house takes up the ownership of cleaning the house; and this act alone can bring discipline to one’s family.
It’s All About Loving Your Family (sorry but not sorry)
One the day of Diwali, the family gets together to decorate the house with lights, oil lamp, candles and a carpet of colours and flowers – the Rangoli. Some people take up the responsibility drawing the outline of the Rangoli, while some neatly fill in the colours and petals, while some, like my husband, choose to climb the trees and the rooftop to decorate the lights and lamps. Diwali is a festival of savouries and sweets, and some members in the family devote their time in that area. Right before the celebration kick start, there is a non-negotiable unity in the Laxmi puja where members of the family bow their heads to the Goddess Almighty and pray that the family stay blessed. The day culminates with friends and neighbours exchanging good wishes, gifts, sweets and basking is some soulful music.
Sweet (And) Nothings
There is a sense of spontaneous organization, automatic ownership and effortless harmony. It is a day where people break into impromptu chatter, a day when people have cleaning the mess of their house and their minds to welcome positivity. It is a day when people don’t shun their responsibilities but take up things that they enjoy or are good at. It is a day when people do good things for others and appreciate the world around. It is day that reminds me that even though we are living in an age when human connections are getting more and more distant, such festivities can foster community bonding and that these bonds are what bring strength to the heart. It is the heart filled with joy and warmth that can create magic!
Diwali is the time of year when workplaces across India and the world come alive with festivity and light. Beyond the traditional sweets and decorations, it’s a time for teams to connect, collaborate, and celebrate. This Diwali, take your office celebrations to the next level with meaningful activities that combine fun, engagement, and even social […]
Diwali, the festival of lights, brings a sense of joy, togetherness, and positivity, making it the perfect occasion to bring your team closer and foster a stronger sense of unity. Celebrating Diwali in the office is not only a way to enjoy the festivities but also an opportunity to strengthen workplace relationships and boost employee […]
As Diwali approaches, it’s time to infuse your office with the festive spirit by organizing exciting and engaging activities. If you’re looking for Diwali competition ideas for the office, Minute-to-Win-It challenges are a perfect way to bring your team together for some lighthearted fun and competition. These quick, easy-to-setup games not only add to the […]
Diwali is a time for light, positivity, and giving back to the community. This year, why not incorporate employee engagement activities that not only foster team spirit but also have a lasting social impact? Here are three unique Diwali event ideas that will not only bring your team together but also contribute meaningfully to society.
Games for Diwali in Office: Fun and Engaging Team Activities Celebrate this Diwali with a twist by incorporating team-building activities that are not only fun but also impactful. Here’s a collection of exciting games for Diwali in the office to make your celebrations more engaging, helping employees collaborate, communicate, and have fun together.
Diwali is a time of joy, and what better way to bring that festive spirit to your office than with engaging team-building games? Whether you’re looking to enhance collaboration, build camaraderie, or simply inject some fun into the workplace, these Diwali party games for office are perfect for your celebrations.
Diwali is a time for celebration, but in the corporate world, it’s also an opportunity to build team spirit and engagement through creative and exciting activities. This year, why not infuse your office with the energy of unique team-building games that go beyond just fun? Here’s how some innovative activities can bring out the best […]
15 Employee Activities that can aid workplace learning, this Diwali (Note: FocusU can help curate these activities for small groups, aimed not just at fun – but on workplace learning too.)
