The internet is stressed out over Zomato’s “celebrating” employees who worked on December 31st: “Nothing to be proud of.”

The mood at Zomato was a sharp contrast to the world’s raucous festivities as it said adieu to December 31, 2023. Zomato’s employees created a different image amid the commotion of fulfilling meal orders and managing backend operations in their fictitiously dubbed “war room.” Founder Deepinder Goyal and associates chose to post pictures from their workspace, showing staff members forgoing the traditional Christmas happiness in favor of work and embracing the distinct culture of the grind. It should come as no surprise that the internet wasn’t raising a virtual glass to this unusual occasion.

As criticism of the massive meal delivery company centered on its alleged “celebration” of capitalism at the cost of work/life balance, the focus switched. A dissatisfied user posted, saying, “Dear food delivery companies, don’t sell the narrative to your engineers that them sacrificing their new year is the betterment of society. You’re not police, doctors, or even army personnel.”

A further commenter offered a comparable account, stating, “Indian food delivery startups Zomato and Swiggy are establishing their war room.” anticipating their annual high point. I work for a fledgling food delivery company in the UK. The last ten days had been spent on vacation. Not at all peaky. Everyone is able to enjoy the year’s conclusion.

Even Zomato’s generalist posted an outfit with the comment, “Yes, @zomato is in office as of December 31st! generated a flurry of criticism. “All product, tech, and supply teams primed for the sprint,” it said. “That’s not something to be proud of,” said one reviewer, while “I don’t think this is something to brag about, honestly makes me question the company and work culture,” was made by another critic who questioned the firm’s values.

“Wow this is super toxic, I hope people would enjoy the day with their loved ones,” said a third commenter.

The post by Deepinder Goyal also received a good deal of criticism. After all, a “war zone” of deadlines and spreadsheets is the epitome of the holiday spirit, in his opinion.