The Great Diwali Holiday Debate: Should India's Workforce Get a Full Week Off?

Diwali, the festival of lights, joy, and togetherness, is undoubtedly one of India's most cherished celebrations. It's a time when families unite, homes glow with diyas, and spirits soar with festive cheer. Yet, for many in the bustling corporate world, the promise of a truly relaxed, extended celebration often remains a distant dream.

This very sentiment became the spark for a fiery debate recently ignited on LinkedIn by Gaurav Sabnis.

His bold proposition? A full week off for every employee in India during Diwali. Sabnis argued passionately for this extended break, not merely as a perk, but as a fundamental recognition of the festival's deep cultural and familial significance. He highlighted how a brief two-day break barely scratches the surface of what's needed to truly celebrate with loved ones, travel, and partake in the myriad traditions that define Diwali.

What made Sabnis's post particularly potent was its timing and implicit counter-narrative.

It landed amidst ongoing discussions, and often contentious ones, surrounding the concept of work-life balance in India, especially after Infosys co-founder Narayan Murthy's widely debated suggestion of a 70-hour work week for young Indians. The internet, quick to connect the dots, saw Sabnis's plea as a direct, refreshing antidote to the demanding "hustle culture" ethos promoted by some.

The post didn't just go viral; it resonated deeply with countless professionals.

Comments poured in, with many echoing Sabnis's sentiment. Users expressed longing for more quality time with family, lamenting the rush of short festive breaks. Phrases like "Narayan Murthy sir ko bhi pooch lete" (Should ask Narayan Murthy sir too) became common, playfully challenging the intense work ethic pushed by corporate leaders.

The general consensus leaned heavily towards prioritizing well-being and cultural traditions over relentless productivity during such significant times. People shared personal stories of missed family gatherings, travel woes, and the sheer exhaustion that comes from trying to squeeze an entire festival into a couple of days.

The conversation quickly expanded beyond just requesting leave.

It became a broader discourse on what constitutes a healthy work environment, particularly in a culturally rich nation like India. Is it sustainable to expect employees to compartmentalize their festive spirit and familial obligations for the sake of continuous work? Many argued that a well-rested, happy employee is ultimately more productive and loyal.

Sabnis's LinkedIn post, seemingly a simple request for a longer holiday, has become a powerful symbol in the ongoing tug-of-war between corporate demands and personal well-being.

It serves as a reminder to companies and leaders alike about the intrinsic value of cultural celebrations and the undeniable importance of allowing employees the time and space to truly partake in them. As India continues to grow as an economic powerhouse, the question remains: Can its corporate culture evolve to embrace a more balanced approach, one that honors both ambition and tradition, productivity and people? The demand for a full Diwali week off is more than just a holiday wish; it's a call for a more humane and culturally sensitive workplace.