We are a team that needs the slightest excuse to throw a party. When you don’t have any legit reason to celebrate, you just need to invent one. One such celebration is “Ek Aam Din”, our own Mango Day. “The idea first took shape” on an innocuous June afternoon in our social media group for die hard foodies.
Someone dropped a picture of a juicy Alphonso mango with the comment ‘Th Best Mango in India.’ This is the country where mangoes originated around five millennia ago. Today the country produces over 1,500 varieties of the fruit and this comment stoked strong reactions. From the popular Banganapalle to the sublime Mankurad, from the regal Imam Pasand to the heavenly Kesar, each person had their favorite, and opinions were flying around like mangoes in a fruit basket!
To quell the tempest, Sanjay Sharma offered to bring a stash of mangoes from his farmhouse to the head office. “We will settle the debate in a democratic way”, he said “Eat and vote!”. Considering the logistical difficulty in sending mangoes to all branches, they were asked to procure local mangoes from regional markets. And just like that, Ek Aam Din was born.
The Mango Day has turned into a tradition for Ayetians. Now, every year, as the day approaches, our offices buzz with excitement. We decorate our workspace with bright yellow banners, fun posters, and even silly mango props. On the big day, the office transforms into a vibrant sea of yellow. Employees arrive dressed in everything from sunny yellow shirts to bright orange outfits, all inspired by the mango. It’s hard not to smile when you see everyone so happy and upbeat.
The highlight of the day is, of course, the mango feast! Tables overflow with a mouthwatering selection of mangoes, showcasing the incredible variety that India has to offer. Each mango variety is labeled and employees eagerly taste each one. The cafeteria turns into a lively mango tasting party, complete with a special menu featuring mango salads, mango lassis, and mango desserts that leave everyone craving more.
As the day goes on, laughter and joy fill the room. It isn’t just about the mangoes; it’s about the fun we have together. Ek Aam Din becomes a day of pure enjoyment, where we share stories, indulge in delicious food and create unforgettable memories.
Looking back, it’s amazing to see how a simple conversation about mangoes turned into such a beloved tradition. So, here’s to Ek Aam Din—may it continue to bring us joy, laughter, and of course, plenty of mangoes! Oh, by the way the debate about which mango is the best still continues….
