Festivals mean we need to exercise extra caution

First up, it will be disappointing but perhaps not surprising given political parties and their track records that somebody jumps up and stirs the communal pot, as keep your dandiya sticks away, garba-dandiya is not allowed.

It is festive season and guidelines are a rollin’. The state government now has brought in a number of guidelines for the upcoming Navratri festival from October 7. The guide we have for Mumbaikars, whether organiser, reveller or devotee, is to simply follow the stipulated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) laid down.

First up, it will be disappointing but perhaps not surprising given political parties and their track records that somebody jumps up and stirs the communal pot, as keep your dandiya sticks away, garba-dandiya is not allowed. This space has repeatedly exhorted readers to call out this bluff, refusing to succumb to rabble-rousing and unnecessary needling. If citizens themselves see through this ploy, every politician will realise that they can no longer get away putting a spark to the powder keg of communal divides.

The idols have to be 2 feet at home and 4 feet at pandals. Devotees are also encouraged to worship online as pandals have to restrict numbers to five devotees. We do hope pandals will open up for online darshan so there should be no crowding at any pandal. Sanitisers and masks are necessary at each and every pandal, social distancing is mandatory, and organisers need to get their act together this weekend so all the guidelines are adhered to.

With no garba allowed outside, it is up to people now to observe Navratri in a different way, but that does not mean it is less meaningful or joyful.

Pandals have also been encouraged to use the venue and visibility for socially relevant messages, just like some Ganesh mandals have been doing through the years, and one is certain Navratri pandals have done so, too. From blood donation to organ pledging, becoming vaccine wise, women’s safety, there are so many causes to espouse. 

Nine nights of responsibility amidst restrictions, let us make this our theme for the festival.

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