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‘Eh dabba koi ni phankega’: Ex-Google MD shares father’s priceless reaction to MacBook gift

An ex-Google MD shared his dad’s funny reaction after gifting him a MacBook, saying the box should never be thrown away.

Published on: Mar 27, 2026, 13:44:08 IST
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A former Google managing director has left the internet amused after sharing a light-hearted moment involving his father. The anecdote, posted on X, quickly caught attention for its relatable humour and cultural nuance.

An ex-Google MD posted about gifting his dad a MacBook, but the father insisted the box must not be discarded. (X/@parrysingh)
An ex-Google MD posted about gifting his dad a MacBook, but the father insisted the box must not be discarded. (X/@parrysingh)

(Also read: Ex-Google MD relives childhood memories after stopping an ice cream van in Singapore: ‘Tastes like childhood’)

Taking to the platform, Parminder Singh wrote: “Gifted my dad a MacBook Neo laptop. As we unpacked, he ignored the notebook, grabbed the box, and declared, ‘Eh dabba koi ni phankega.’”

The remark, loosely reflecting a sentiment common in many Indian households about not discarding useful packaging, struck a chord with users online.

Take a look here at the post:

Internet relates to ‘dad logic’

One user wrote, “This is peak Indian parenting energy, the box is always more important.” Another commented, “Laptops come and go, but the dabba stays forever.” A third user added, “My dad still has boxes from 10 years ago, just in case.”

Others joined in with witty observations. “That box will now store important documents, wires and probably nothing useful,” one user joked, while another said, “Every Indian home has a secret stash of such boxes.

Some users also highlighted the practicality behind the habit. “Honestly, they are not wrong. Those boxes come in handy more times than we admit,” one comment read. Another user wrote, “Parents see value where we don’t, and that is a lesson in itself.”

More than just humour

While the post is being widely shared for laughs, it also reflects a generational mindset shaped by frugality and resourcefulness. For many, especially in Indian households, items like boxes are rarely discarded and are often repurposed for storage or future use.

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mahipal Singh Chouhan

Mahipal Singh Chouhan is a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital, with nearly five years of experience in digital journalism and content production. He primarily covers offbeat, trending and human-interest stories, with a focus on emerging social media trends, online conversations and real-world incidents that capture public attention. At Hindustan Times, Mahipal works on identifying and developing fast-moving digital stories, adding context and journalistic perspective to viral moments while maintaining accuracy, clarity and readability for online audiences. Before joining Hindustan Times Digital, he was associated with DNA India, where he gained experience in newsroom workflows and digital storytelling. He holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi. Beyond journalism, he has a keen interest in history and sports and enjoys expanding his general knowledge.

Discover the latest Trending News, viral videos, social media stories and unusual events from India and around the world. Stay updated with the topics everyone is talking about.
Discover the latest Trending News, viral videos, social media stories and unusual events from India and around the world. Stay updated with the topics everyone is talking about.
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