28 January,2010 09:27 AM IST | | Chetan R
Pramod Mutalik of the Sri Ram Sene says this year those who send pink underwear to protest against his group's plans to stall Valentine's Day celebrations will get return gifts that symbolise modesty sarees and bangles
Pink Chaddi target Pramod Mutalik, founder of the Sri Ram Sene, is preparing for a fitting reply as the 'Pink Chaddi Campaign' completes a year this February.
The Sri Rama Sene, whichu00a0 drew flak for its anti-Valentine's Day stand last year, has decided to gift a saree and 'bagina' (a gift that includes bangles, sindhur, turmeric and flowers) to pink chaddi campaigners, if they are still around this time. This, they believe, is a symbol of Indian tradition and a way to wish well-being to women.
The Sri Ram Sene has also decided to stick to its earlier stance of protesting against St Valentine's Day celebrations across the state this year as well.
"We will protest against Valentine's Day celebrations this year as well. There is no change in our stand. However, we have drawn up different plans this year, unlike the past," said Mutalik.
No forced marriages
The outfit is eyeing colleges and merchant establishments to curb any celebrations this year. "This year our men will not go with a priest and mangalasutra as they did last year.
Instead, we have started appealing to students and merchants who are part of Valentine's Day celebrations," added Mutalik.
The Sri Rama Sene has already issued an appeal to boycott Valentine's Day in colleges in over five districts, among them Belgaum, Bijapur, Bagalkot, Gadag and Dharwad, and aims to spread the appeal across the state,u00a0 including the city.
Sri Rama Sene has cautioned those who are promoting Valentine's Day.
Strictly no roses
This includes flower vendors, especially those selling roses, and also merchants selling Valentine's Day merchandise that includes Valentine's Day gifts, bands and cards.
However, those who started the pink chaddi campaign condemning Mangalore pub attacks and Sri Rama Sene's anti-Valentine's Day stance have a surprise in store if they continue with the campaign this year.
"We will gift them a saree and bagina. This will be sent to those sending pink chaddis," said T S Vasanth Kumar Bhavani, President, Sri Rama Sene, Bangalore Mahanagar.
