On 22 March, Indians did what they were told: clap hands, ring bells to demonstrate their gratitude for healthcare professionals and others protecting us from COVID-19. Now we have been told that on 5 April at 9 PM we must turn off our lights and light a candle/diya. The tweeple being what they are, had plenty to say:
After taali-thaali, Indians are now called upon to light a candle or lamp or torch to ‘mark the country's fight against the Covid-19 pandemic’.
It is expected that people will participate as enthusiastically as before.
Because.
…Were just relieved.
According to this standup, this is a bit like Bigg Boss.
People recalled the stupidity of many (COVIDIOTS) after the #JantaCurfew of the 22nd.
They recalled how so many rushed outdoors, in large numbers, singing and dancing; actions that pretty much nullified the point of asking people to remain indoors and isolated.
Soon the memes started – such as this one about other possible motives for switching on a torch on the balcony.
People are going to get quite inventive with their light-a-lamp endeavour.
Maybe some will get altogether too enthused, predict the tweeple.
Knowing about the over-enthusiasm of a lot of people, experts are cautioning against lighting candles with sanitizer (largely made up of alcohol and therefore highly flammable) on the hands.
WhatsApp Gyan is expected – and it rarely disappoints.
The tweeple recalled the numerous fake messages about the supposed UNESCO awards and NASA images, and the likelihood of this after 5 April.
WhatsApp messages about ‘alignment of the Navagrahams’ and ‘Mahayagyams’ the ‘weakening’ of the virus promptly started to circulate after the PM’s address.
This is the poster of an old Dada Kondke film known for its vulgar double-meaning humour; Andheri Raat Mein, Diya Tere Haath Mein.
Many of the tweeple thought that this is all mere optics at a time when real action is required.
There were comparisons with other leaders and the way they have addressed their respective nations at this time of crisis.
There is a lot that needs to be done to actually tide over the crisis, points out this tweet. Right now, solidarity and a sense of community are very important. We will have to act keeping in mind the common good if India is to survive the COVID-19 pandemic and emerge relatively unscathed.
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