New Delhi: Google CEO Sundar Pichai recently added some much-needed joy to the Christmas season by taking part in the company’s first-ever “ugly sweater” contest. Pichai did not fall short of the event’s goal of fostering creativity and happiness among staff members. In a humorous homage to the holidays and his passion for cricket, he arrived wearing a sleek black sweater adorned with snowflakes, a ball, Christmas trees, and cricket bats.
The competition also came with a modern twist as it was judged by none other than Gemini, the AI assistant from Google. Pichai posted on Instagram that he had enjoyed himself and congratulated the winners. He also thanked everybody who helped in making the close of 2024 a fun time. It is cricket-themed, which many loved because it keeps him connected to his roots. Cricket is one of the most popular games played in India, and he has often spoken about his childhood, when he grew up looking up to cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar.
The response from social media was overwhelmingly positive. Fans praised the unique design, with one user joking, “Love your cricket sweater. Best sport in the world. If you don’t believe me, Google it!” Others admired how different and creative the design was.
The tradition of ugly Christmas sweaters has gone a long, long way since the era of simple festive designs were first introduced in the 1950s. By the 1980s, it had definitely gotten wilder with over-the-top patterns and flashy colors. Nowadays, events like these are entertaining in celebrating, usually with prizes for what is considered the most outlandish or creative design.
It was not just a fun time, but also showed the world Google’s fun workplace culture where creativity and employee well-being are considered paramount. By blending the cheer of the holiday season with his love for cricket, Pichai showed how personal passions can shine through even in corporate traditions.
