Puneites find ways to let their hair down & have some unalloyed fun

PUNE: The numerous restrictions and consequent changes brought about by Covid-19 pandemic has failed to defeat the spirit of Puneites, who have been finding ways to have fun throughout the lockdown and after.
From engaging in household chores to enjoying small intimate get-togethers or even exercising together, Puneites are finding ways to get back to normal routine while adhering to restrictions.
The city-based Agarwal family, fond of watching new releases in multiplexes every week, has now made movie nights a ritual at home. “From ensuring complete darkness and loud volume, to popcorn, snacks and cold drinks, we do everything possible to get the theatre feel,” said Shanti Agarwal.
For many others, the pandemic has provided an opportunity to bond with family and neighbours. “All these years, my family members had all been busy with their jobs and our timings rarely matched. It was due to the lockdown that we spent more time together,” said Sanjay Jadhav, a working professional.
A group of friends from Nigdi enjoyed their time together exercising. “The lockdown led to closure of gyms, which have opened recently. During the lockdown, all my friends came together to cycle, something we had been planning to do for years,” said Lea Carvalho.
The easing of restrictions has also brought out party heads in the city. NIBM Road resident Shaheen Ghasia said, “We decided to go out on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowd. We have been careful to check restaurants and bars for precautions being followed. It feels great to finally be able to go out or visit places or friends.”
Several Puneites have stated that instead of doing anything extravagant, they have found happiness in food. “During the peak lockdown, we were experimenting with dishes at home. Now with restaurants open, we splurge on our favourites from time to time,” said Swapnil Shinde, a city-based working professional.