Politicians scale down festivities they organise

Dahi Handi and Ganeshotsav will be a low-key affair this year, as many politicians, who organise festivities, have decided to scale them down owing to the spread of novel coronavirus.

Political analysts point out that the politicians are averse to taking any risk in the current pandemic situation. “There is a fear that if there is a spike in Covid-19 cases in their areas, it will hurt their political image and their credibility will be damaged,” said Surendra Jondhale, a political analyst.

BJP legislator Ram Kadam, who organises a grand Dahi Handi at Ghatkopar, has decided to cancel the celebration this year. “Lakhs of people get together every year to celebrate Dahi Handi, hence social distancing is impossible. We have decided to cancel the event this year,” said Kadam.

Ganeshotsav, on August 22, too, will be a low-key affair this year as the height of the idols has been restricted. The ruling party Shiv Sena said it will abide by the government’s directive to scale down festivities.

Ganeshotsav has played a vital role in the growth of the Shiv Sena, as most of its top leaders have headed Ganesh mandals. Even the secretary of Lalbaugcha Raja, Sudhir Salvi, is a senior Sena office bearer.

Sena legislator Ajay Choudhari said the party is coordinating with the mandals. “Most of the office bearers of these mandals are from Sena. They have all decided to scale down the festivities and adhere to the directions given by the state government,” said Choudhari. “Our main priority is the safety of the local population.”