Bihar political heavyweights to keep it simple this Holi

There will be no ribald Holi celebrations at Lalu Prasad-Rabri Devi’s residence this year. The Rashtriya Janata Dal president has made it clear to the party rank-and-file that with the election model of conduct in force, there will be no “kapda phad” (cloth-tearing) Holi this year at his wife’s official residence of 10 Circular Road.

“What Holi? When some of my key aides have changed colours, what is there to celebrate the festival of colours?” remarked the maverick Lalu when asked about his plans for festivities. 

It is believed that Lalu, who has already started canvassing for his party nominees, will take complete rest on Holi day. 

“I have not been able to sleep properly for the last few days, as I was either busy distributing tickets or campaigning for my candidates. So, on the day of Holi, I will prefer a siesta to recharge myself, so that I can take the communal forces head on,” said Lalu on the eve of Holi, adding that members of his family would be free to enjoy a simple celebration.

Just across te road from Rabri’s residence, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too is likely to observe Holi in a simple way. He will apply “tilak” on the forehead of common people and members of his party, who will come to meet him at his residence, with organic colours.

 “There is no special plan this Holi, as the chief minister has instructed that it be kept a low-key affair,” said one of his aides.

LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan and his son Chirag, who is making his political debut in this Lok Sabha election, will be in New Delhi to celebrate the festival of colours with other members of their family. The father-son duo will return to the state capital a day after Holi, as Chirag has to file his nomination papers on March 19.