Puneites embrace green gifting for sustainable Diwali

Pune: This festive season, eco-conscious residents are embracing the trend of green gifting, choosing sustainable and thoughtful alternatives over conventional presents. From seed bombs, potted plants, and organic hampers, local stores and online platforms are curating eco-friendly options that combine tradition with responsibility. "This festive season, we plan to give plant-based hampers to all our employees. We will be giving a curated collection of plant-based stationery, desk plants, and seeds," said Dhananjay Kulkarni, a business owner based in Wanowrie. It's not only corporates; many individuals are also choosing green gifting this festive season. "We usually send out gift hampers to friends and families during Diwali. This year, we have placed an order for an assorted mix of plants and chocolates for festive gifting," said Sonali Khanna, a resident of Kondhwa. Sajin Kumar, co-founder of Baner-based Rolling Nature, said that they have already received orders from corporates for indoor plants to be given to employees for the festive season. "We see good demand for air-purifying plants and good luck plants in high-quality ceramic pots. We also provide branding and packaging options for these desk plants," he said. Sagar Dave, who makes terrariums under his brand, Jungle in a Jar, said that he made some Ganpati terrariums last month and is looking forward to a good upcoming festive demand. "People embraced the idea of plants and Ganapati together, bringing a little green inside their homes along with all the festivities. It also represents sustainable growth, something everyone prays for. While sweets and savouries definitely define Diwali, I am looking forward to helping people add some mini jungles to their homes," said Dave. Shalini Goswami, who runs Hadapsar-based Shadenium, said that they have curated green gift hampers for this festive season. "Our hampers feature thoughtfully curated items, such as plants potted in exquisite terracotta, ceramic, or metal planters, soy wax candles in hand-painted terracotta pots, terracotta tealight holders, soy wax closet fresheners, and kokedama. Among our bestsellers are jute-wrapped plants and plants in beautiful pots—thoughtful gifts that are not only eco-friendly but also easy on the pocket," she said. Pic credit: Shadenium