Festivals Are Among Our Few Healthy Signs

The mood in Pune is festive. With Krishna Ashtami tomorrow and arrival of Ganesh less than two weeks away, the rush of Ganesh Mandal workers has begun. However, as usual voices of protest against the 'pollution through jubilation' has begun already.

Citizens of Pune have tradition of raising their voices against the unnecessary noise pollution in tha name of the celebrating Ganeshotsav, which is arguably the biggest festival in the city. This tradition dates back to same era when the celebration began as an occasion to raise consciousness against British Raj. In an age when marketing consideration have taken precedence over everything else, the voices of opposition have not diminished in least.

As the economic situation of the country prospers, so does the level of enthusiasm among masses to find a way for collective recreation. Nothing can stop them. The dance, the blaring music, high walls of music, all these are only symptoms of the less sophisticated formation of the society.

People, especially the youths, seem uncontrollable when engaged in revelry. But they do so because almost all elements of Indian society vie for the pomp and superfluousness. Since the showiness is catchword of the day, it will be little wise to blame the youths for missing their ways during the festivities.

With so many problems and vices plaguing this country, it is one of the few healthy signs that so many people come together for whatever reason and indulge in non-destructive activities. On the contrary, the number of Ganesh Mandals doing one or another kind of social welfare work runs into thousands all over Maharashtra. Therefore, we should welcome, not despise the festivities.