A light-hearted video of a young employee attending an online meeting with a green face mask has gone viral, triggering discussions around workplace professionalism and evolving work-from-home culture.
The employee, identified as Vartika Bisht, joined a virtual meeting wearing a neem face pack and a towel wrapped around her head. While colleagues struggled to hold back laughter, her manager chose an unexpected response.
Boss’s calm reaction wins praise
Instead of reprimanding her, Naresh Harwani reacted with curiosity, asking about the face mask. Vartika responded playfully, saying it was neem and even suggested he try it.
The moment, initially a casual prank, quickly gained traction after being shared on Instagram, garnering millions of views.
Social media divided
The video drew mixed reactions online. Many users appreciated the relaxed and understanding approach taken by the manager, calling it a refreshing example of modern workplace culture.
Others, however, criticised the act as unprofessional, expressing concern that such behaviour could negatively impact perceptions of remote work.
Debate on evolving work culture
The incident reflects a broader shift in workplace dynamics, especially with the rise of remote working. While traditional norms emphasise strict professionalism, younger employees are increasingly blending personal comfort with work environments.
Experts note that while flexibility can improve morale, maintaining a balance between professionalism and informality remains essential.
A moment of humour at work
Responding later, Harwani clarified that the incident was unplanned and part of a regular workday. He acknowledged that while professionalism is maintained, occasional light moments can make the workplace more engaging.
The viral clip continues to spark conversation on how work culture is changing in the digital age.