Durga Puja 2021: India is now in the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the virus is now shifting o the epidemic stage, it is not as prevalent and malevolent as it was in 2020, but the dangers associated with the coronavirus still linger.
As we enter the festival-filled quarter of 2021, it is crucial to maintain the COVID-19 psyche and follow all the norms and safety regulations while celebrating the pompous and exciting festivals. The first in line is the 9-day-long festival of Navratri that culminates with Dussehra. Here are ways to enjoy these festivals while keeping yourself and your family safe.
Here are some restrictions, guidelines or protocols you must follow for the Durga Puja, Navaratri and Dussehra if you’re living in Delhi, Maharashtra and other major states.
Festivals have begun in our country and right now, people are celebrating Navratri 2021 with full zeal in their cities. Amid the festive season, the government has issued the Covid-19 restrictions and revised SOPs to ensure the safety of the citizens in large gatherings.
Covid-19 guidelines and SOPs for Navaratri and Dussehra:
Delhi
In the wake of Durga Puja and Navratri, District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has allowed the celebration with a positivity rate of 5 per cent or below. It has been advised that in a closed space, only 50 per cent capacity with a ceiling of 200 people, will be allowed.
The organisers have been advised to make separate entry and exit gates to maintain social distancing.
Maharashtra
The civic body in Mumbai has banned all the Garba events during the Navratri festival and also capped the height of Goddess Durga’s idols to two feet. The BMC has asked people to celebrate the festival in a low-key manner.
Karnataka
In Karanataka, there is no restriction on the height of Goddess Durga’s idol. The devotees have been asked to gather in batches of 50 for prayers in Pandals. The organisers had to take permission from the Joint Commissioner of Police before installing Goddess Durga’s idol in the pandal.
West Bengal
In West Bengal, Durga Puja is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. The state government has decided not to conduct any cultural programmes and Durga Puja keeps in mind the Covid-19 situation.
Gujarat
The government has relaxed the Covid-19 guidelines in almost eight cities. The state government has permitted Garba events on streets and housing societies for nine long days. Up to 400 people and participants are allowed to take part in the Garba event.
Patna
The authorities have issued several guidelines in view of the festive season. As per the report, the organiser has to take permission from the administration to organize a fair or a big function during Durga Puja. Also, Ramleela and other programs cannot be organised without taking prior permission from the officials.
Dussehra 2021: Date, time, significance and history of the Hindu festival
Here’s How to Celebrate Navratri, Durga Puja, Dussehra Safely Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Covid-19 Guidelines for Durga Puja, Dussehra Celebration: A Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata. Despite many people vaccinated with both doses, masks are a necessity since one can be a carrier, if not a sufferer.
MASK UP!
Without a doubt, the first on the list are masks. Just like you carry your phone everywhere, you need to carry your mask everywhere you go. And do not just carry but wear it at all times. Despite many people vaccinated with both doses, masks are a necessity since one can be a carrier, if not a sufferer.
WEAR THE FESTIVE SPIRIT
Festivals are all about the spirit. Unfortunately, amid the restrictive environment induced by the pandemic, it is hard to bring the spirit to life. However, one hack can help you achieve it. Clothes! Dressing up in the colours of the festival will help you get into the celebratory mindset.
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS AND WHERE YOUR LUNGS SHOULD BE
The pandemic taught us the importance of home. It is the safest place there can be. Therefore, keep going out during the festival at the bottom of the list. Make delicacies at home, organize kirtans at home without any invitees, and meet friends and family online.
GREETINGS NEED MEDIUM, NOT MEETINGS
Festivals are not the same without greetings. Wishing each other on occasion adds to the aura of the festival and makes it a collective thing. However, it is not necessary to meet in flesh and blood to wish each other. Send messages, make calls, organize zoom and google meet sessions to see your kins and include each other in your celebration.
