The dread of Diwali gifts

Every year, as Diwali approaches, homes buzz with the unmistakable rush of preparations. But during the customary Diwali cleaning marathons, a familiar scene unfolds: gifts from the previous Diwali resurface, often untouched. Trays of dry fruits long expired decorative items still in their boxes, candles and diyas left unused, and fancy packaging gathering dust in forgotten corners. Diwali’s footprint, it seems, lasts far longer than the festival itself.

One of the biggest challenges with Diwali gifts is space, especially in cities like Mumbai, where every inch of home is carefully curated to fit belongings. Receiving bulky hampers, oversized decor, and multiple boxes of sweets or dry fruits can feel like a burden rather than a joy. These items are often stashed in the most inaccessible areas, only to be rediscovered a year later, unused and forgotten.

Today, people are selective about what they choose to keep or display in their homes, making generic Diwali gifts less practical and less welcome. There’s also a growing consciousness around health, and when faced with boxes of rich mithais and chocolate-covered almonds, most recipients can only sigh in despair. After all, there is a limit to the amount of peri-peri makhanas or jaggery cookies that one can consume. In many cases, these gifts are simply passed on to others, perpetuating a cycle of unwanted and unappreciated gifting. What could be a gesture of joy and appreciation becomes instead a burdensome exchange.

Diwali gifting has become a competitive sport—an unspoken race to outdo last year’s offerings. What was once a meaningful tradition now feels like just another item to check off the festive to-do list.

One of the troubling aspects of Diwali gifting is the sheer packaging waste it generates. Many gifts arrive wrapped in layers of glossy, non-recyclable paper, adorned with ribbons, bows, and elaborate boxes—most of which are discarded the moment the gift is opened. While some individuals and brands have begun to embrace eco-friendly packaging, they remain the exception. Corporations that speak of reducing their carbon footprint in balance sheets often end up contributing to landfills through extravagant and unnecessary gift packaging.

If we take a step back and reflect on the waste and anxiety that have come to define Diwali gifting, the question arises: are there better alternatives? While personal gifting is often shaped by social expectations and personal relationships, can brands and corporations lead the way in doing better?

Imagine if Brand X or Company Y sent a Diwali greeting not with a bulky gift hamper, but with a message that they had planted a tree on your behalf, made a donation to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or provided medicines to those in need. What if they hosted a Diwali party for street children instead of sending out extravagant hampers? Such gestures would leave a lasting impression, showcasing thoughtfulness and an understanding of what Diwali and festivals are truly about. These acts would reflect the character and values of the organization, making the gifting ritual something genuinely meaningful and heartwarming.

In a world where inequalities are widening, there is a significant opportunity to rethink corporate gifting and make a difference. New-age brands and startups that are already redefining industries in so many ways could take the lead in changing how Diwali gifting is perceived and executed. 

Diwali is a time of light, joy, and generosity. The way we celebrate certain rituals should reflect these values more deeply. As I continue to sort all the well-meaning gifts this year, I wish you a very Happy Diwali!