This Diwali, Mumbai’s beloved dabbawallas seek a better deal

According to the association, many dabbawalas have been seeking alternative employment owing to post-pandemic struggles. Pic/Pradeep Dhivar

Amid the ongoing festival of Diwali, dabbawalas in Mumbai have found themselves in a challenging situation, battling for fair treatment during the festive season. The Mumbai Dabbawala Association declared a four-day holiday for its workers from November 13 to 16 on account of Diwali. However, the occasion is clouded by concerns over the lack of Diwali bonuses and adequate holidays for dabbawalas.

Subhash Talekar, president of the Mumbai Dabbawala Association, said, "We usually get only six to seven holidays a year. Even on government holidays, shops remain open, making it difficult for us to take a day off," Talekar said. The association has appealed to customers for support during Diwali. Talekar urged customers to contribute one month's salary as a Diwali bonus and not deduct salaries for the holidays that the workers are entitled to.

Dabbawalas at the Swaminarayan Mandir in Dadar. Pic/Ashish Raje

According to the association, the pandemic and consequent lockdowns brought new challenges. The shift to remote work led to a decline in customers and disrupted business hours. Many workers have been exploring alternative employment. "We have asked our customers for a Diwali bonus. Of course, the final decision on whether to give the bonus lies with them. After the COVID-caused lockdown, the number of customers reduced, compounding our difficulties. We, too, have families to feed," said a dabbawala who is a member of the association.

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A spokesperson for the association said, "With the community's support, dabbawalas will return to their duties with renewed spirits on November 17 after the short holiday."

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Days in dabbawalas' Diwali break

Distribution drive in tribal hamlet

The Mumbai Dabbawala Association and Dabbawala Foundation visited tribal settlements in the western part of Pune district and distributed clothes and food to tribals on account of Diwali. Sarpanch Koliye Sadhana Kawade, association president Subhash Talekar, Dabbawala Roti Foundation president Kailas Shinde, and association members Rohidas Sawant and Dattatray Nikam were present for the distribution drive.