 "Holi")
The Maharashtra government on Thursday issued guidelines for Holi, saying people should celebrate the festival of colours without congregating on a large scale, and observe COVID-appropriate behaviour as the disease is still prevalent.
This year, 'Holika Dahan' is being observed on Thursday, and 'Dhulivandan' and 'Rangpanchami' - during which people apply colours to each other - will be celebrated on March 18 and 22, respectively.
Holi/Shimga is celebrated on a big scale throughout Maharashtra. The festival should possibly be celebrated without crowding and by observing COVID-appropriate behaviour given the coronavirus situation, the state Home department said in a circular.
The government said Dhulivandan and Rangpanchami should be celebrated in a simple manner to ensure the coronavirus infection does not spread.
The government also asked people against taking 'palkhi' (palanquin) processions to households during the festival.
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Local administration should (instead) arrange for darshan (of palkhi) at the local temple, the government said.
The local administration should also ensure effective observance of the COVID-appropriate behaviour.
Since the last two years, all festivals in the state are being celebrated in a low-key manner in the wake of the pandemic.
Of late, Maharashtra has seen a dip in COVID-19 cases. It reported 237 fresh infections and two deaths on Wednesday, as per official figures.
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