Sir, 

When the whole world is facing Coronavirus pandemic, it is surprising that the Government of Karnataka is holding preliminary meetings to conduct Dasara Festival. Till recently there was lockdown in the whole of India but now there is some relaxation of curbs mainly to revive the growth rate in the economy.

There is a steep rise in the Corona cases in India. Bengaluru and Mysuru are the worst affected cities with 10 to 12 people dying daily due to this virus in Mysuru. If Jumboo Savari procession takes place there will be an assembly of big crowd coming mostly from villages without wearing masks and not observing social distance, thus causing danger to their own health as well as the health of others. 

When schools and colleges were closed, temples were not opened, jathras were prohibited, cinema halls are closed, Olympic events are postponed, the great American Tennis tournament is conducted without spectators, trains and bus services were stopped, why this Dasara Festival is required?

In the interest of public and the safety of elephants it is wise on the part of the Government to cancel this Dasara Festival. 

– A.C. Ramakrishna, Yadavagiri, 10.9.2020

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