Jose K Joseph
post news network
Bhubaneswar, June 4: Will rain wash away with it the spirit of Raahgiri? That is a question people across the city are asking themselves and often each other as pre-monsoon showers expose the city’s tendencies to get waterlogged.
Raahgiri on Sundays has been a favourite hangout for youngsters in particular and most are anxious what will happen Sunday and in the Sundays to come.
Abhishek Pattnaik, a college student, said: “Raahgiri has been my favourite weekend hangout for a while now. I hope to participate in Raahgiri this time too.”
One of the biggest worries for youngsters is that rain can spoil the musical shows at Raahgiri.
“Rock music and dance are my favourites at Raahgiri. But rain and wind can spoil all the fun. Hope it won’t rain in the morning,”said Sarthak Das, a plus-II student, said.
It is not just the youngsters, though, who are cribbing. The elderly, too, are a worried lot.
“I love the event but I wouldn’t want to participate in it if it rains. Youngsters may be able to withstand the rain but for aged people like me it is difficult,” Pravat Kumar Swain, a retired bank manager, said.
Another group of citizens deeply worried about rain on Raahgiri day is children. They have been particularly attracted to the event by the many games and activities they get to participate in at the event.
“I like the painting competitions and the games at Raahgiri. But Mother has told me that we will not go for the event if it rains in the morning,” Babloo Das, a Class V student, said.
Waterlogging is one of the most dreaded possibilities at Raahgiri.
“I am not sure whether Janpath will get waterlogged. If it rains heavily Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation will have to postpone the event,” Ishita Pradhan, a city-based fashion designer, said. However, the BMC had no such plan at the time Orissa POST spoke with Gopal Panigrahi, the public relations officer of the civic body.
“We are aware that citizens like to celebrate Raahgiri. The participation of youngsters is also key to the success of Raahgiri. Therefore, we have no plan as yet to postpone the event,” Panigrahi said.
