Mumbai, 13th November 2026: Every Diwali, millions of Indians make their way home. Trains are packed, families reunite, and homes light up in celebration. But amid all the festivities, there are countless people for whom going home is simply not an option.
Turning the spotlight on these often-overlooked individuals, State Bank of India (SBI) has unveiled ‘Ghar Se Dur, Ghar Wali Diwali’, an emotional festive brand film conceptualised and produced by independent creative agency Dora Digs.
While most Diwali campaigns celebrate the joy of homecoming, this film explores the other side of the festival — the lives of those who stay behind, putting their responsibilities before their own celebrations.
Through a deeply human narrative, the film reminds audiences that the warmth of family isn’t always confined to one’s own home. Sometimes, it is found in unexpected relationships, small gestures of kindness and the people who make us feel that we belong.
A Diwali Story That Goes Beyond the Usual Festive Narrative
At a time when festive advertising is often dominated by celebrations, reunions and gifting, Dora Digs chose to explore a quieter, more poignant reality.
The creative insight emerged from a simple observation: for every person celebrating Diwali at home, there is someone working to make that celebration possible.
From essential service workers to countless individuals whose duties continue through the festive season, the film acknowledges people whose sacrifices often go unnoticed.
Rather than relying on conventional brand messaging or overt emotional cues, the narrative places its faith in authentic characters, relatable situations and the emotional power of human connection.
The film has been written by Ankur Jain and directed by Akshay Shah, with Dora Digs spearheading both the creative development and production. The storytelling approach
combines emotional restraint with cinematic sensitivity, allowing the narrative to unfold organically and its central message to resonate without excessive brand intervention.
A Brand That Understands the Emotions of India
Speaking about the thought behind the campaign, Naresh Raheja, General Manager – Marketing & Communication, State Bank of India, said:
“As a brand that has been part of India’s everyday lives for generations, SBI believes that its connection with the country goes beyond banking. It is also about understanding the people, relationships and emotions that shape our society.
‘Ghar Se Dur, Ghar Wali Diwali’ brings alive an important, often overlooked reality of the festival that while millions return home to celebrate, there are others who stay back to fulfil their responsibilities and become a source of comfort for someone else’s family.
It is our way of reminding people that the spirit of Diwali is not just about celebrating together, but also about making sure no one feels alone.”
A Celebration of Those Who Make Others Feel at Home
Ultimately, ‘Ghar Se Dur, Ghar Wali Diwali’ is more than a festive greeting. It is an acknowledgement of the countless people whose work, compassion and sacrifices allow others to experience the joy of the season.
In choosing to celebrate those who stay behind rather than those who return home, SBI and Dora Digs offer a different perspective on the festival — one that reminds us that Diwali is not merely about being with family, but also about making someone else feel like family.
Because sometimes, even when you’re far from home, a little kindness can make Diwali feel like home.
Campaign Credits
Campaign: Ghar Se Dur, Ghar Wali Diwali
Brand: State Bank of India (SBI) Creative Agency: Dora Digs
Production House: Dora Digs
Writer: Ankur Jain
Director: Akshay Shah
Music: Anand Bajpai
Executive Producer: Nilesh Dhawad
Watch the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAmXkLCUYl4
About Dora Digs
Dora Digs is an independent creative agency and production house bringing together original ideas, compelling storytelling and high-quality film production. Working across brand campaigns, digital content and films, Dora Digs combines creative thinking with end-to-end execution to create work that connects with audiences and stays with them long after the screen fades to black.
