Blissful renegades in city play holi amid rising cases, virtually goading and daring a reluctant administration to enforce further restrictions
Youngsters playing Holi at Shivaji Park on Monday despite the ban against it. Pic/Suresh Karkera
Despite the BMC imposing a complete ban on Holi celebrations in the city and the civic chief warning of action against those found violating orders, many were seen celebrating in society premises. Though no data came in from the BMC, sources said the celebrations were low-key. However, at many places the police had to visit housing societies and order people to stop the celebrations.
Youngsters play Holi at Girgaum on Monday. Pic/Suresh Karkera
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Many also gathered at various places and performed puja a day before Rangpanchami, which in Hindu tradition is known as Holika Dahan.
Requesting anonymity, a civic official said, “No action was taken from our end as the cops were on the field taking action and registering FIRs.” Sources said that though the instructions from the civic body were clear that festivities should be avoided both at public and private spaces, various Holi parties and get-togethers still took place inside housing society complexes.
However, not many celebrations were seen on the roads. Even the BMC’s disaster control room confirmed that they did not receive many complaints of violation. Meanwhile, the first day of implementation of the night curfew saw tremendous response with the police taking charge and vacating various public places like gardens, parks and tourist spots.
Speaking to mid-day, Omkar Gharat, a Kurla resident said, “We held a private Holi party in our society premises. Due precautions were taken and we tried to maintain social distance. The entire year passed by without any festivities. None of us had celebrated until now and we thought it was fair to have a small gathering in the society.”
Vikram Oberoi, an Andheri West resident said, “Holi was celebrated at my society premises but not many people had turned up. I had gone down for some time as I was eager to know about the celebrations.”
Speaking about the night curfew, Anushree Damri, a Vile Parle East local said, “I used to visit a garden for evening walks around 8 pm everyday but since Sunday it has been shut and even the neighbouring park was closed. Now I have to ensure that I go for my walks earlier in the evening.”
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