A Rs 10 Lunch That Captured the Internet

Security guard Anand Kumar shared a video on Instagram showing the lunch provided by his company — a meal of papad, stir-fried bitter gourd, soybean curry, rice, dal and an onion slice — all for just Rs 10. He noted that the same food would cost Rs 50 to Rs 100 outside, thanking his employer for the heavily subsidised perk.

The post quickly went viral, gathering thousands of reactions. Many viewers applauded the company for offering a wholesome, filling meal at a price that is almost impossible to find today. Comments ranged from joking applications for a job at the same firm to heartfelt appreciation for making food so affordable.

However, a significant number of commenters focused on the meal’s packaging. The food was delivered in a plastic bag, prompting concerns about hot food in plastic containers and suggestions to switch to reusable lunch boxes or food-grade containers. Kumar replied that he would pass the feedback on to his company and try to get the issue addressed.

Why It Resonated — and the Packaging Pushback

The Economic Contrast That Powered the Viral Moment

The video struck a chord because it highlights the sharp contrast between everyday food expenses and the rare, low-cost meal. With many workers spending Rs 50–100 for a simple lunch outside, a Rs 10 company meal feels extraordinary. The public reaction reflects both financial strain and an admiration for employers who invest in tangible employee welfare — even a small subsidy can generate significant goodwill when shared widely.

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The Environmental Health Concern Over Plastic

The packaging criticism is not a minor side note; it reveals a growing public awareness of the health and environmental effects of single-use plastics, especially when used for hot food. Several viewers directly linked plastic to health problems and urged a shift to safer alternatives. Kumar’s willingness to relay the feedback suggests that even informal, user-generated content can pressure small workplace practices to change — a pattern seen increasingly in viral workplace stories from India.

What Employers and Workers Can Take Away

  • For employers: A heavily subsidised meal program can serve as a powerful, low-cost employee benefit that earns both internal morale and public goodwill, as the viral reaction demonstrates.
  • If your workplace provides meals in single-use plastic bags, consider raising the idea of switching to reusable lunch boxes or food-grade containers. Many viewers felt this was a simple but important change, and a single employee’s feedback helped bring the concern to the company’s attention.