'Ganpati Darshan on TV can keep swine flu away'

Updated on: 15 August,2009 07:22 AM IST |
Sanjeev Devasia |

State health minister appeals to citizens to avoid crowded pandals

State health minister appeals to citizens to avoid crowded pandals

After requesting Dahi Handi organisers to tone down the celebrations, the state now wants people to take darshan of their favourite deity on TV screens during this Ganesh otsav, thanks to the worsening swine flu situation.

Said Minister of State for Health Shobha Bachhav, "We advise people to remain indoors and take darshan of the deity on TV. This will minimise human contact and ultimately the spread of the swine flu virus."

While political parties, youth groups and builders had made grand plans to sponsor Dahi Handi celebrations, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan appealed to citizens to tone down the celebrations in light of the swine flu pandemic.

However, some leaders like Sachin Ahir and Sanjay Nirupam decided to celebrate the festival with customary gusto.
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Referring to the appeals made by political parties for Dahi Handi, Bacchav said, "I expect that politicians and citizens at large will be as understanding during the Ganeshotsav celebrations."

Malls Don't Listen

Health Minister Rajendra Shingane had appealed that mall establishments refrain from offering discounts and advertisements to attract customers during Dahi u00a0Handi.

However, malls disregarded the advice and went overboard with their offers. This has displeasedu00a0 the state cabinet.

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