NRGs could cancel trips to state during Navratri

AHMEDABAD: The Akshardham attack and the resultant fear psychosis seems to have had its impact much beyond the shores of Gujarat. Many non-resident Gujaratis, who love to come back to Gujarat this time of the year, are planning to postpone or cancel their visits during this Navratri and Diwali.
Taral Mehta, a dentist from Philadelphia, had planned to come to Gujarat during Navartri to enjoy the traditional garbas as well as to meet prospective brides in Ahmedabad.
However, after the 9\24 attack, he has postponed his visit. “Due to heightened tension in Gujarat after the terrorist attack at the Swaminaranyan temple, we have decided to postpone the visit till Diwali. We will again review the situation at that time and only then confirm the travel plan,� Mehta says.
Last year the terrorist attacks in the US had affected garba celebrations in Philadelphia. “There was heightened security and strict checking for entry into the garba halls. I feel this year in Gujarat too, high threat perception may mar the free spirit of garba celebrations. This is the main reason for postponing our visit during Navratri,� adds Komal Mehta, Taral’s sister who was planing to accompany him during his trip to Gujarat.
Many, like the Mehtas, who come back home for the garba and get the feel of real dandiyas are backing off. “Many NRGs are upset because they now have to cancel their trips after having planned their visits so meticulously and applied for leave from work,� says Khagesh Pathak, a student at Georgia State University.
Many have this time decided to celebrate garba in foreign land, not because time does not permit them to take a break from the schedule, but after the attack on the temple, they feel it is better to stay away from Gujarat for a while because of prevailing insecurity and uncertainty.
“Without doubt, we feel safer here in the US,� adds Pathak. “Safety is a big concern and everybody is very sensitive about it.�
Navratris are fun in the US too, says Anjan Contractor, a member of Federation of Indian Association in central Ohio.
“Only thing it does not last for nine days and we have to adjust as per the convenience of members. Garbas are generally played over weekends. May be we have to compromise there, but that is only thing to be compromised, not safety,� says Contractor.
Many Indians were upset last year due to cancellation of the Huntingdon Beach garbas, one of the most popular in California, in wake of the September 11 incident. However, this year Cal Poly Pomona Garbas and the Huntingdon Beach Garbas will give a big chance to celebrate, says University of Southern California (USC) student Anooj Aggrawal.
“Last year, USC students had escort services provided by USC public safety department for all students who needed it, going back home late at night. Such safety measures are less likely to be implemented back home,� he adds.
However, Japan Doshi MS student at University of Texas says, “If I were to come during Diwali or Navratri, I wouldn''t have dropped my plan. And of course I would never feel unsafe in Ahmedabad. And now if you look for security, after the World Trade Center incident, we can not feel safe in any corner of the world.�