At EY Gurugram, Diwali is not just a festival—it is a vibrant reflection of the organization’s commitment to unity, cultural diversity, and employee well-being. This year’s Diwali celebration lit up not only the office premises but also the hearts of every EY professional, serving as a testament to the company’s thriving corporate culture and its enduring commitment to community and collaboration.
Lighting the Spirit of Togetherness
The week-long celebration at EY Gurugram was a carefully planned fusion of cultural vibrance and corporate camaraderie. The office transformed into a dazzling haven of lights and colors, with each floor beautifully adorned in thematic décor inspired by traditional Indian motifs. Rangoli competitions, diya-painting corners, and floral installations infused the environment with festive cheer. Employees across departments actively participated in decorating their workspaces, turning routine cubicles into glowing showcases of creativity and unity.
The event began with a symbolic diya-lighting ceremony led by senior leadership, who spoke warmly about the importance of celebrating cultural festivals as a team. “Diwali reminds us that light overcomes darkness and that unity can overcome any challenge,” said one EY leader during the inauguration. This gesture set the tone for a celebration rooted in values of inclusion and collective positivity.
Engaging Employees Across the Board
One of the cornerstones of EY’s Diwali celebration was inclusive employee engagement. From team-based activities to solo performances, the celebration catered to diverse talents and interests. The talent showcase, “EY’s Got Spirit,” featured music, dance, and poetry performances by employees. Virtual colleagues were not left out—hybrid participation was encouraged through livestreamed events and online contests such as “Best Dressed,” “Home Décor,” and “Virtual Rangoli.”
Employee participation was overwhelming, with departments collaborating to design themed ethnic wear days, culminating in a grand “Traditional Dress Walk” where teams showcased their regional attire. This activity not only honored India’s multicultural identity but also gave employees a platform to proudly share their heritage.
Fostering a Culture of Gratitude and Giving
True to the spirit of Diwali, the celebration at EY Gurugram extended beyond the office walls. Community service initiatives played a central role in the festivities. EY employees enthusiastically took part in a donation drive organized in collaboration with local NGOs. Essential supplies, educational kits, and festive gift hampers were distributed to underprivileged families and children in nearby communities.
A special “Joy of Giving” day was dedicated to volunteering efforts, where employees had the opportunity to contribute their time to CSR projects supported by EY Foundation. Several professionals shared emotional stories of their interactions with the beneficiaries, describing it as a humbling and rewarding experience. These moments reinforced the company’s commitment to responsible citizenship and social impact, highlighting how the spirit of Diwali can shine far beyond the workplace.
Celebrating Safely: A Thoughtful Response to the Pandemic
Even as India began recovering from the long shadows of the pandemic, EY Gurugram remained vigilant and responsible in ensuring health and safety during the celebrations. The entire event was designed with hybrid participation in mind, accommodating remote teams and those preferring virtual engagement.
On-site attendees were welcomed under strict safety protocols including temperature checks, mask mandates, and spaced seating arrangements for all group activities. Sanitization stations were placed across the office, and event timings were staggered to avoid crowding. This thoughtful approach ensured that the essence of the celebration remained intact while prioritizing employee well-being.
A dedicated virtual platform hosted festive games, cultural showcases, and wellness sessions, allowing remote employees to feel equally connected to the celebrations. Yoga and mindfulness workshops with a Diwali twist were introduced as part of the week’s itinerary, offering employees a refreshing pause amidst the festive buzz.
Diwali as a Reflection of EY Values
The Diwali celebration at EY Gurugram was more than an event—it was a vibrant expression of the organization’s core values: integrity, respect, inclusivity, and teamwork. By embracing traditional festivities within a modern corporate framework, EY reinforced its belief that employee morale and cultural identity go hand in hand.
The celebration also fostered interdepartmental connections, with professionals from different business units coming together to collaborate on event planning and performances. This cross-functional collaboration enhanced relationships across the organization and served as a reminder that diversity in backgrounds, skills, and perspectives is what makes the EY culture truly dynamic.
One employee summed it up best: “This Diwali, I felt not just celebrated, but seen and appreciated. EY didn’t just organize an event—they created memories.”
Looking Ahead
As EY Gurugram wraps up another successful Diwali celebration, the spirit of unity and joy continues to reverberate through the organization. The festival served as a beautiful reminder that corporate life can be both purpose-driven and joyful, especially when supported by a culture that values tradition, inclusivity, and shared success.
The event left a lasting impression not only for its visual brilliance but for the deeper connections it nurtured among employees. As hybrid workplaces become the new norm, such celebrations gain even more significance—offering employees the human connection, recognition, and joy that make professional environments more fulfilling.
In a world still navigating change, EY Gurugram’s Diwali celebration shone as a beacon of hope, tradition, and team spirit. Through its thoughtful planning, inclusive activities, and meaningful community engagement, the organization exemplified how the corporate world can celebrate festivals with both heart and purpose.
