Old City lights up for twin festivities

HYDERABAD: The Old City is all geared up for Sankranthi and Milad-un-Nabi, both of which will be celebrated on Tuesday. Roads have been decorated with buntings and lighting, while kite-sellers are putting up their best wares to attract last-minute buyers.
“It is a joyous occasion for all as both the festivals fall on the same day. For Sankranti, sweets like Til ka Laddu, Gajak and Gevar Pinni are in much demand,” said Rajesh Aggarwal of Agra Sweets near Gulzar Houz.
The Char Kamans (arches) around the historic Charminar and several areas have been decked up with lights, banners and buntings for Milad-un-Nabi (birthday of Prophet Mohammed), even as public meetings are being organised in many colonies. Important religious structures, like the Mecca Masjid and the Ziaguda temple were also decorated.
On Sunday, many people were seen at Gulzar Houz and surrounding areas like Laad Bazaar buying flags and kites.
Kite-sellers, meanwhile, said that they expect brisk sales as both communities would be celebrating. “As it is an occasion of joy for all, we expect more people will fly kites. So far, the sales have been good and they will pick up in the next two days,” said Mohammed Ghouse, a kite vendor near Kali Kaman, Gulzar Houz.
Meanwhile, police have beefed up security and are planning to deploy additional forces on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to prevent any untoward incidents.
“Nine companies of paramilitary forces and 15 companies of special police force will be deployed on Monday. We have also requisitioned additional officers from districts to keep a tight vigil,” additional DCP, South Zone, K Babu Rao. Police have also intensified vehicle checks between 6 and 9 in the evening and are planning to increase pickets in sensitive areas. Security arrangements would be place in till Wednesday.