Gurinder Kehr’s Post

✨ Diwali is around the corner—are you ready for the celebrations? ✨ As one of India’s most treasured festivals, Diwali is a time to reconnect with family, relive traditions, and enjoy the joy of togetherness. But in the rush of work, do we really get the time we need to go home, celebrate, and recharge? 🤔 In many startups, we’ve been quick to embrace Western work culture, focusing on flexibility and innovation—but somehow, we miss out on something fundamental: extended leave for our own important festivals. Just as Christmas and New Year’s are honored in the West, shouldn’t Diwali deserve the same respect here? This year, at TrulyMadly, We decided to do things differently. We’re giving our entire team a full week off to go home, be with their loved ones, and enjoy Diwali without a ticking clock. 🪔 💬 What do you think? Would more Indian companies benefit from embracing festival breaks? Could this actually boost productivity, instead of limiting it? If you value a workplace that respects cultural moments and truly puts family first, come join us! Send me a DM to explore opportunities, or simply share your thoughts below. Let’s get a conversation started—how are you celebrating Diwali this year? 🌟 #Diwali #WorkCulture #FamilyTime #TrulyMadly #FestiveBreaks #WorkLifeBalance

Ever noticed how the world is seeking what we've always celebrated? Diwali. It's not just about lights and sweets. It's about homes opening their doors, streets coming alive with shared joy and the comfort of knowing you belong. Think about it - every time we shop for new clothes together, every moment we share sweets, every instant we light fireworks and run far and away with squeals of delight - we're not just celebrating. We’re practicing something the west is at risk of losing: the art of human connection. Our festivals create effortlessly what modern therapy places on such high pedestal - connection, community, and a sense of continuity. Every few weeks, India gives us a reason to: ✓Pause our daily rush ✓Reconnect with family ✓Feel part of something bigger ✓Practice gratitude ✓Create memories that bind us together. In a world where belonging is slowly becoming a luxury, festivals like Diwali reminds us of a fundamental truth: mental well-being was never meant to be a solitary pursuit. It can be only amplified through the joy we share, the traditions we keep, and the communities we nurture. And to live in a country where this connection isn’t a scheduled appointment or limited to an app but a way of life? Now that's something worth celebrating, isn't it? Happy Diwali🪔 #india #culture #life #community #gratitude

Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas to all who celebrate! 🪔✨ As these festivals of light, freedom, and new beginnings brighten homes and hearts around the world, it's a perfect time to reflect on their powerful symbolism and how it applies to our professional lives. These celebrations teach us: 1. Light overcomes darkness: Just as we light diyas to dispel darkness, our innovative ideas can illuminate challenges in the workplace. 2. Freedom and justice: Bandi Chhor Diwas commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 princes, reminding us to stand up for what's right and champion fairness in our professional environments. 3. New beginnings: Diwali marks the start of a new year for many. In business, every day is an opportunity for a fresh start and new goals. 4. Prosperity through perseverance: The story of Rama's return after 14 years of exile reminds us that persistence leads to triumph. 5. Unity in diversity: These festivals are celebrated across various cultures, reminding us of the strength in embracing diversity in our teams. 6. Gratitude and giving: The tradition of exchanging gifts reflects the importance of appreciating our colleagues and giving back to our communities. Share your insights or how you're applying these principles in your life. Let's spread the light of knowledge, freedom, and success! Wishing you festivals filled with brightness, prosperity, and new opportunities. #Diwali #BandiChhorDiwas #ProfessionalGrowth #Inspiration #FestivalOfLights

*****A TEAMWORK STORY***** As I sit here, my mind takes me back to a time where I was a part of a diverse team, working together towards a common goal. It was the festive season of Diwali, the festival of lights, and our team was abuzz with excitement and enthusiasm. We all came from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs, but that didn't stop us from celebrating this joyous occasion together. As the office was adorned with colorful decorations and the aroma of traditional sweets filled the air, we gathered around to light the diyas (lamps) and exchange warm wishes. It was a sight to behold, seeing everyone come together in harmony, forgetting all our differences and celebrating the festival of lights with such fervor. But what struck me the most was how this festive spirit translated into our work. As we embarked on a new project, the team dynamic was unlike anything I had experienced before. The sense of togetherness and camaraderie was infectious, and it reflected in our work. We brainstormed ideas, collaborated, and supported each other every step of the way. Just like how Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil, our team's unity and teamwork led us to achieve great success. We were able to tackle challenges and overcome obstacles. Have a great Diwali and forthcoming festivities till New Year 2025. #teamwork #dreamwork #teambuilding #skilltraining #teamstory #storytelling

𝐀 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐡 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐢 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚 💫 Did you know that many nations observe extended holidays for their major festivals: 1. 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 10–14 days off 2. 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚: 7–15 days off 3. 𝐄𝐢𝐝-𝐚𝐥-𝐅𝐢𝐭𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: 10–15 days off 4. 𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐤𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝: 7–10 days off However, in India, when it comes to 𝐃𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐢 : 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐣𝐨𝐲, 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, we typically have only a single day off. For many, traveling to celebrate Diwali with family becomes a challenge. The struggle to get extended leave, high travel expenses, and limited transportation options often mean that celebrating with loved ones isn’t possible. A Thoughtful Proposal What if Diwali became an annual extended break, allowing Indians the chance to: 1. 𝐑𝐞𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 2. 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 3. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭, 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 As organizations, let’s think about fostering a culture that honors and values our traditions. Just a few extra days off during Diwali could enhance employee well-being and promote a healthy work-life balance. Let’s make Diwali a time to connect, reflect, and celebrate our heritage. 🌸 #DiwaliCelebration #FestiveBreak #WorkLifeHarmony #IndianTraditions #CorporateCulture

This week, we are doing a short series about celebrating beyond the familiar. We’ll be highlighting celebrations from around the world to inspire and connect our global teams! 🎉 Let’s kick things off with a celebration that lights up the lives of over 1 billion people each year: Diwali! 💬 Did you know? In 2019, the diya (a traditional oil lamp) became an emoji, symbolizing the essence of Diwali. This five-day festival of lights is celebrated by people across India, Nepal, Malaysia, Thailand, and other countries worldwide. It’s a time to honor the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, making it a universal reminder of positivity and renewal. ✨ Fun Facts about Diwali: 🔹⁠ ⁠Houses, temples, and public spaces are adorned with candles, diyas, and colorful rangoli art. 🔹⁠ ⁠Families celebrate by exchanging sweets, dressing in vibrant attire, and spending time together. 🔹⁠ ⁠⁠It’s not just a Hindu festival! Diwali is observed by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, each adding their own traditions. At Anywhere League, we believe that when teams celebrate each other’s cultures, they grow stronger, more inclusive, and innovative. We help teams build meaningful connections, bridging cultural distances and making every virtual workspace feel like a true community. #AnywhereLeague #Diwali #TeamBuilding #VirtualTeams #DiverseTeams #EmployeeEngagement #EmployeeHappiness #TeamBonding #RemoteWork

Today, as we celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights - a festival we all know for its radiant lamps and shimmering lights - I invite you to reflect on the light within each of us and the boundless promise of new beginnings we all carry with us. Diwali has, for centuries, symbolized the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and kindness over malice. But it’s not just about lighting lamps; it’s also about illuminating our lives with a commitment to bring warmth, joy, and purpose to every corner of our shared world. This Diwali, let’s consider what it means to bring light and joy - not as an abstract ideal, but as a conscious practice that touches every person and space we encounter. In a world that’s increasingly complex and sometimes isolating, a collective promise to light the way forward feels more vital than ever. Each of us holds sources of light - whether rooted in our values, our resilience, our humility, our curiosity, or our compassion. When we choose to channel this light, extending kindness where it’s least expected, nurturing relationships that might otherwise drift, we transform not only our lives but also brighten the world around us. Diwali’s essence lies in a simple yet powerful idea: one lamp can ignite many, and each small flame defies the darkness. 🙂 A very happy and joyous Diwali to each and everyone of you 🕯️ 🪔 🎇 #Diwali, #FestivalOfLights, #NewBeginnings, #Resilience, #Connection, #PersonalGrowth, #Community #ManuSharma #ManuOttawa

🪔 Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating today! 🪔 This half-term has been all about Diwali for us—getting the house ready, cooking delicious food, and sharing stories to pass on my culture to the kids. It’s a special time but also reminds me of the nostalgia that festivals bring, especially when you are far away from your family and country. It is the stories, traditions, and shared values that keep culture alive and vibrant, generation after generation. This got me thinking: In the same way that cultural connections inspire us to go above and beyond, the best company cultures do too. True organisational culture isn’t just about values on a poster or high-level initiatives from the top; it’s about a deeply embedded culture that drives people to bring their best, connect with purpose, and pass on those values to others. So, does your organisation inspire employees to go the extra mile? Or is it simply a checkbox exercise disconnected from day-to-day reality? I leave you to reflect on it while I go and enjoy some sweets! 😊 #diwali #culture #values #motivation #engagement #productivity #coaching #organisationculture

This Diwali, Light a Lamp in Someone Else’s Life As the festival of Diwali approaches, homes everywhere are brightened with the soft glow of lamps and the warmth of togetherness. For many, it’s a time of joy, celebration, and abundance. But for countless street vendors and small artisans, it’s a season of uncertainty and struggle. These are the people who bring the very essence of Diwali into our homes—the humble vendor who sells diyas, the artisans who craft beautiful handmade decor, the small sweet shop owners who prepare delicacies with love. For them, every sale during this festival counts, often determining whether they can provide for their families or not. This Diwali, let’s remember that we hold the power to make a difference. Instead of choosing big brands and mass-produced goods, let’s visit the local market and buy directly from those who need it most. With every diya you purchase from a small vendor, every handmade lantern you buy, you’re not just acquiring a product, you’re lighting up someone’s life. Help make this Diwali a celebration for everyone. Your small act of kindness can bring light to a struggling vendor’s home. Let’s spread the true spirit of the festival—hope, kindness, and support for those who need it most. After all, isn’t that what the festival of lights is all about? 🌟 #SupportSmallBusinesses #Diwali2024 #KindnessMatters #FestivalOfLights #SupportLocalVendors

✨ There’s a buzz of festivity everywhere! Whether it’s the beautifully lit kandils or the Diwali lanterns adorning the streets, the vibrant rangolis and diyas at our clients’ offices, or people in their traditional best snapping selfies, laughing, and greeting each other, it’s clear: 𝗗𝗶𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗶 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀. 🎉 As a Talent Development Consultant, I’ve been lucky to partake in numerous Diwali celebrations this week. And this got me thinking—how can we, as leaders, keep this spirit alive long after the rangolis are washed away and the diyas are snuffed out, returning to our “regular” corporate attire? 🏢😅 Here are some ideas to keep the festive spark alive: 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 & 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀: What achievements can we celebrate together? Whether it’s a project wrap-up or a small victory, let’s keep the confetti flying! 🎊 𝗘𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗳𝗳: Let’s promote a culture where taking that long-awaited vacation is not just encouraged but celebrated! After all, work can wait—family and relaxation cannot. 🏖️ 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗥𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝘀: What team traditions can we establish to foster belonging? From celebrating work anniversaries to welcoming new members with a special “team initiation” (no, it doesn’t have to involve a pie in the face!), let’s build a sense of community. 🤗 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: As a leader what are ways I can shine brighter and not let my light dim? How can we nurture our capabilities and tackle our fears together as a team. 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, 𝗮 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗹𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺! 🌟 Let’s not let the glow of Diwali fade too quickly. After all, we’re all in this together, navigating the hustle with a little light and laughter. Wishing the entire LinkedIn community a joyous and prosperous Diwali! May your days be filled with light, laughter, and love. ✨ #Diwali #Leadership #TeamSpirit #WorkLifeBalance