Across the world, Local Guides like you become everyday heroes every time they leave a review or photo of a local business on Google Maps. Sharing your guidance is especially valuable during holidays and festivals, when people are out and about looking to buy hand-made gifts, delicious sweets, or have dinner out with family and friends.
For everyone across the globe who celebrates Diwali, the festive season is just getting started. India is about to burst into a kaleidoscope of colors and celebrations. This year again, Local Guides’ contributions will help others discover hidden gems, local bazaars brimming with treasures, and family-run shops where Diwali traditions come alive.
Imagine this: the aroma of freshly made sweets in the air, the vibrant marigold garlands adorning shop windows, the joy of festivities bustling through the streets. You take a picture of the dazzling Diwali display, leave a glowing review about the melt-in-your-mouth dessert, and share it all on Google Maps. But here’s the thing: you’re not just sharing a sweet treat; you’re sharing a piece of your community’s heart.
Local Guide @AjitThite from Pune is one such hero who helps local businesses in his community during the festive season and beyond. “It began with me going shopping for items for Diwali during last year’s celebration, which I found exciting. Until then, my wife was taking the initiative,” Ajit shared. Besides making a purchase, he also supported shops and restaurants by making them more visible on Google Maps.
“Adding reviews and photos was the best option, particularly for restaurants and sweet shops that had special Diwali offers. I also added photographs in the Updates tab, where I believe most people look to find current deals, specials, and new products when planning a purchase.”
Ajit has shared over 380 reviews and more than 3,000 photos and videos on Google Maps. Some of his favorite reviews are of a family restaurant, called Verandah, and a sweet shop, called Prabhat Farsan & Sweets, in Pune. Ajit includes great descriptions of the products, the atmosphere, the service, the accessibility, the parking facilities, and much more.
In addition, he edits business information to help make sure it’s up to date. “I check if the business’s name is spelled correctly in the local language [and if] other details, such as the location, hours of operation, and contact information need to be updated. I report spam reviews and images as well.”
Ajit also actively attends and organizes meet-ups with other passionate Local Guides in his area. He’s got a market photo walk planned for September 30 in New Delhi and a Diwali bazaar crawl on October 27 in Pune. And his recent post with tips on how to support local businesses has inspired others to host their own events!
Thank you, Ajit and everyone who supports businesses on Google Maps! Local Guides, are you getting motivated by Ajit’s story and ready to give the gift of guidance this festive season? We’d love to see your contributions in the comments below. And why not take a video of your meet-ups and interactions with business owners to inspire others?
