Bhubaneswar Dussehra Celebrations to be Free of DJ Music, Alcohol, and Plastics

This year’s Dussehra in Bhubaneswar will not feature DJ music, alcohol, or plastic. The decision was made during a meeting with BMC Mayor Sulochana Das, local MLAs, the Police Commissioner, and members of puja committees.

In a bid to make the upcoming Dussehra festival in Bhubaneswar a more peaceful and eco-friendly celebration, officials have announced that the event will be free from DJ music, alcohol, and plastic. This decision was reached during a crucial meeting held on Tuesday, attended by Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Sulochana Das, local legislators, the Police Commissioner, and representatives from various puja committees.

One of the significant outcomes of this meeting was the prohibition of DJ music during the festival. No DJ systems will be allowed at any of the pandals or during the immersion processions that follow the celebrations. The decision aims to create a more serene environment, allowing devotees to focus on the spiritual aspects of the festivities rather than the often-noisy atmosphere generated by high-decibel DJ music.

Another major aspect of the meeting was the emphasis on ensuring that the Durga Puja celebrations this year are alcohol-free. The Commissionerate Police will be playing a key role in enforcing this restriction. In line with their strategy, the police will actively distribute pamphlets at pandals, urging both committee members and attendees to refrain from consuming alcohol. These pamphlets will carry a pledge to maintain pandals as alcohol-free zones, ensuring a more dignified and respectful atmosphere for worship.

During the important ritual of ‘pushpanjali’, the offering of flowers to the goddess, an additional step will be taken to reinforce this alcohol-free commitment. At this time, the police will administer an oath to puja committee members as well as devotees present, asking them to vow not to indulge in alcohol during the celebrations. This measure is expected to foster a sense of shared responsibility among the community, encouraging collective efforts to keep the event alcohol-free.

In addition to DJ music and alcohol restrictions, authorities are also focused on tackling the issue of plastic waste during the festival. Bhubaneswar aims to set an example by limiting the use of plastic at pandals and around immersion sites. The push for a plastic-free Dussehra aligns with the broader sustainability goals that the city has been advocating for, and is part of an effort to reduce the environmental impact of large-scale public events.

Moreover, the police are taking a firm stand against the illegal practice of collecting donations in the name of "Chanda." Chanda, or forced donations, has long been a concern during festivals, as some groups tend to exploit the festive season by demanding contributions. The Commissionerate Police has vowed to crack down on those who engage in this practice, ensuring that the festival remains an occasion of joy and devotion, free from intimidation or harassment.

This year’s Dussehra promises to be a celebration focused on spirituality, environmental consciousness, and a renewed sense of community. The collaborative efforts of the BMC, law enforcement, and puja committees aim to create an atmosphere where traditions are honored while public safety, environmental concerns, and respect for fellow citizens take precedence. These initiatives are expected to make Dussehra a more enjoyable and meaningful experience for all, marking a shift towards more mindful and inclusive celebrations in Bhubaneswar.