The restrictions imposed on celebrations of Holi and other festivals in the coming days have been put in place for public health and safety considering the recent spike in number of Covid cases. Due to the restrictions put on Holi gatherings and celebration coupled with the rise in Covid cases, many people are planning smaller and safer celebrations this time. People are trying to think of new ways to ensure safe visits while also maintain their festive spirit.
Anil Rawat a worker at a juice center said, “This year due to Covid we will celebrate Holi at home and avoid going outside. Government restrictions and the pandemic matter to us and so does the safety of our family.”
Expressing concern for his family, shopkeeper Upendra Badoni said, “We will keep our gathering small and will only invite healthy relatives. This year we don’t have Holi gathering in our colony. Considering the surge in Covid cases we will stay home and will keep this Holi simple and small for the safety and good health of our family.”
Disappointment yet awareness can be seen among soe of the youths regarding the Holi celebration. An MBA student, Nikunj Gupta said, “The scene has crumbled for this Holi. I am disappointed at not being able to mark this occasion as usual. Parties have not been canceled but it’s going to be different this time with masks. I will celebrate Holi with my friends but will also ensure basic safety measures.”
College student Simran Bisht said that there should be focus on balancing celebration with safety. “The government has taken some decisions due to Covid and we must follow them, keep our gathering small while also maintaining social distancing among visitors.”
Another college student said, “We need to stick to the rules and plan a safe celebration. Careless assumptions should be avoided. The numbers of Covid cases are rising and to ensure safety we should stay indoors and spend time with our family. But yes I will miss the crowd and congestion this time.”
Sunday, 28 March 2021 | PNS | Dehradun
