Guwahati: Following the norms and protocols for COVID-19 Guwahati City is gearing up for a low-key celebration of Vishwakarma Puja. Every year, Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Vishwakarma. Vishwakarma Puja usually falls on September 17 and the day is calculated as per the ‘Bisuddhasidhanta’, and on the last day of Bengali or Assamese Bhadra month. People usually celebrate this day with a lot of zeal and enthusiasm.
But this year, the scenario is completely different due to the COVID-19 pandemic around the globe. There is no buzz in the market ahead of Vishwakarma Puja compared to previous years.
The business of idol makers in the market has been affected massively due to COVID-19 pandemic. They are facing difficulties as their livelihood is dependent on the festival. Due to fewer customers, they couldn’t sell their products at desired prices.
The markets are filled with garlands, banana leaf, flowers, fruits and other decoration materials for the occasion but due to the fewer footfalls the vendors are facing a lot of trouble in selling their products.
“We are not able to sell our idols at desired prices and from morning only a few pieces have been sold. I have come here with 100 pieces in Ganeshguri to sell the idols from Goalpara but could only sell 5 to 10 pieces only. This year, the sale has drastically gone down due to Coronavirus”, said a vendor
“I have been trying to sell idols, flowers and other items for the puja but couldn’t gather a single customer from morning. Every year, we do a good business but this year, it seems we have to go back home with almost empty hands. But we are still hoping that in the evening we can make some business. Because people will celebrate Vishwakarma Puja amid the pandemic also”, said another vendor.
Even as some of the districts have imposed restrictions on gatherings during the puja, no guidelines have been announced by the district administration in Guwahati and the state level.
