This year Diwali will be celebrated under the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, it is not the only festival celebrated under the pandemic's shadow. Since the coronavirus outbreak, all the celebrations have been observed with utmost care and following COVID-19 protocols.
The question that hits your mind is that do festivals bring out the same enthusiasm they once did?
Talking about Diwali, if one compares this festival that was celebrated pre-pandemic, it was about people gathering, rejoicing, and reconnecting with their loved ones. However, does the festival of lights hold the same amount of enthusiasm?
The government's appeal to burst fewer crackers for Diwali is a good move but what we are really going to miss are those gatherings. The fear of the third wave of coronavirus does not linger anymore due to the curve flattening, but one has to follow all the COVID-19 appropriate behavior.
Mumbai lights up every year during this time with people all around traveling places and visiting relatives. However, in the past two years, the scenario has completely changed. With travel restrictions (which are now easing), meeting their friends and relatives became difficult.
Also read: Diwali 2021: Car And Bike Sales In City Declines This Dhanteras
This year with restrictions easing and new SOPs issued by the government for Diwali, one can hope to see more travel movements; however, the fear of COVID-19 still persists. Every citizen is asked to avoid crowding's with health experts advising citizens to take utmost care as it is likely that the cases can surge post-Diwali.
We sure miss the time wherein we did not have to think twice before wishing someone 'Happy Diwali' or the times where after shaking hands, we didn't immediately have to think about sanitizing our hands.
With everything said, one thing that remains the same is the excitement of celebrating Diwali or any other festival. Even though they are celebrated under the shadow of the pandemic, we still manage to connect with distant relatives and friends, if not physically, then virtually.
Also read: Diwali 2021: Mumbai's Air Quality Likely To Be In 'Very Poor Range' A Day After Diwali
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