Bhubaneswar: The festival of colours, Holi, is being celebrated across Odisha amid Covid restrictions imposed by the State government.
The guidelines stated that “Holi and its related rituals shall not be observed in public places throughout the state. People may celebrate ‘Holi’ with family members in their houses only and not in any public places including public roads.” However, people can celebrate ‘Holi’ with family members in their houses only.
The people have been advised to ensure Covid appropriate behaviour such as physical distancing, use of face mask/ covering, and handwashing/ hand sanitizer during the celebration of Holi.
The Commissionerate Police and Odisha State Pollution Control Board have conducted joint raids at several shops in Bhubaneswar in view to ensure a safe Holi. The team of officials took the step to ensure that no hazardous or chemical colours are being sold during Holi. The shopkeepers have been directed to sell only organic or herbal colours.
During the raid, chemical colours worth more than Rs 10,000 have been seized from a shop in Patia area following which the officials seized the shop. Adequate security measures have also been undertaken by the Commissionerate police to maintain law and order during the festivity.
The colorful festival of Holi is celebrated on Phalgun Purnima which comes in February end or early March. Holi festival has an ancient origin and celebrates the triumph of good over bad. It also symbolizes new beginnings. It’s a time of great cheer and fun as people smear bright colours on each other.
Also read: Holi 2022: Here’s the guidelines issued by Odisha Govt
Ms Kalinga