Aurangabad, April 13:
The impact of coronavirus and lockdown was reflected on Gudi Padwa, as markets in the city remained shut even as a large number of people turned up. Jewellery, automobile, construction and electronic sectors that usually do brisk business during the festival remained shut. Thus the trading community suffered a loss of crores of rupees.
Gudi Padwa is one of the first of the three and a half auspicious occasions and is the busiest days of the year for the trading community. Last year Gudi Padwa was in lockdown and this year the festival was celebrated in a partial lockdown. Traders were expecting a two-day concession to open the shops before the complete lockdown. However, as no relief was granted, the vehicle showrooms, cloth markets, construction sector, bullion market, electronics market were completely closed today. Some electronic shopkeepers on Jalna road had partially opened the shops. A similar situation was with the bullion traders in Jawahar Colony. But there were no customers in the shops. Traders said they had no option but to close business following the government orders and the fear of risking infection. “Padwa usually is a good time for the business community but this year, the tables have turned and we are worried how long this lockdown will last,” questioned a trader. The city which used to celebrate the festival with great pomp showed a deserted look and with the clampdown in place, all revelry that is a trademark of the city was restricted to homes.
Festival celebrated in households
Due to lockdown, the citizens preferred to stay at home. But the festival was celebrated in enthusiasm in every household. Family members came together while erecting the Gudi early morning. This was followed by aarti and prasad. People welcomed the New Year in traditional attire. Some immediately shared a selfie with Gudi on social media. People also greeted each other on the phone.