At a time when long work hours and strict return-to-office mandates dominate corporate headlines, a Delhi-based PR firm has shown what true workplace empathy looks like. Elite Marque, led by founder and CEO Rajat Grover, recently announced a nine-day-long Diwali break for all employees — a gesture that quickly went viral for its warmth and thoughtfulness.
A Festival Gift That Sparked Joy
In a surprise company-wide email, Grover informed employees that the office would remain closed for nine days during Diwali. His note encouraged everyone to disconnect from work completely — avoid checking official emails, rest well, enjoy time with family, and of course, indulge in sweets.
The message, written with humor and warmth, struck a chord across corporate India. It served as a refreshing contrast to the rigid return-to-office policies seen across several large organizations.
Employees Share Gratitude
One Elite Marque employee shared her happiness on LinkedIn, calling it a rare example of “genuine workplace culture.” She wrote, “A real workplace culture is where an employer consistently puts employee well-being first, recognising that a thriving workforce is the foundation for innovation and success.”
She further expressed appreciation for Grover’s leadership, calling it a “true privilege” to work in an organization that values people as much as performance.
Setting an Example for Corporate India
A company spokesperson told HT.com that even the HR team was pleasantly surprised by the announcement, underscoring that the gesture was unplanned but deeply appreciated. “Every employee, from new joinees to senior leaders, received it as a delightful gift — a reminder of what a truly employee-first culture looks like,” the spokesperson said.
In an age where burnout and stress dominate workplace conversations, Elite Marque’s thoughtful move highlights a growing shift toward human-centered leadership — where productivity and empathy go hand in hand.
