Owing to the Coronavirus crisis, Delhi government declared all colleges, cinemas and schools shut till March 31, 2020. In response to this, Delhi University suspended all the classes, seminars and fests till March 31, 2020.
The fest-season is the most colourful time every year in DU. However, this year, COVID-19 stole all its colours. Most of the student organisers and college authorities have been caught exclaiming how the fests will take place soon. However, failed to even convince themselves with their responses.
After the incidents of sexual harassment at Gargi college’s annual fest followed by the Delhi violence, some colleges’ authorities were already wry of hosting any mega event. The Corona crisis has driven them further away.
Recently, Principal of Kirori Mal College was talking to the media about the postponed college fest, owing to the COVID-19 outbreak. She promised the fest would take place soon, however, the students are unsure.
“Our college fest has been cancelled. However, it is said to be postponed. At this time my department also organises an annual Youth Conclave, which has also been postponed. We are still not sure if it will happen in the future too. It’s sad. However, what is even sadder is the situation, due to which it has been cancelled.” said a BA Programme student from Kamla Nehru College who is also a student organizer.
“We had planned so much. Most of the preparations were done. We missed classes and did not get attendance. We stayed late at night without food. And now this. The monetary and human resource, both are wasted now.” added another student.
Every year a large number of students get involved in preparing for colleges festivals. Some run to fetch sponsors, others go around the campus to stick posters. This is the time of the year when freshers rush to various colleges to experience the DU culture. At the same time, the third-years enjoy these festivals with their college squads, one last time.
The question that arises now is, will any of these college festivals take place any time soon? And if they do, will the college authorities be able to provide proper security and protection to its students, against all the odds?
