Bhubaneswar: In the wake of the third wave of Covid-19, Odisha Special Relief Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena urged citizens to celebrate festivals by abiding with Covid appropriate behaviour.
Taking a major decision, SRC Jena also announced that there will be no relaxation on the idol height of 4 feet as prescribed in the guidelines issued on August 9.
“After several rounds of discussion and assessment of the situation, we have taken this decision. This year, the idol height will not exceed 4 feet. Let us all pray to the almighty that we celebrate the Pujas next year onwards in the usual manner.” SRC Jena said.
“People of Cuttack have always supported the State and the State Government in times of exigencies. Today, as we are facing a serious situation in form of the pandemic, we urged the people of the Millenium city to cooperate,” Jena said.
“Celebration of Ganesh Puja, Durga Puja, Laxmi Puja, Kali Puja, and other similar festivals shall not be allowed in public throughout the State. Apart from the idol height restrictions, the Puja(s) shall be conducted in indoor-like condition only for observance of rituals without public participation, pomp, and grandeur,” he added.
He also asked people not to congregate in temples during the festive period and the rules apply to the entire State and there will be no crowding or gatherings in and around the pandals during the Pujas.
“Puja Pandals/ Mandaps shall be covered on three sides. The 4th side shall also be covered in a way not to allow any public view of the idols. There shall be no darshan by public devotees,” the Government guidelines stated.
