The celebration of the Indian Holly Festival declined today, as fears of the spread of the new virus, Corona virus, diminished the usual loud celebrations that witness the dumping of colored powders and flooding with stained water.
In a Mumbai suburb, people made a huge doll representing the virus, setting it on fire, and women sang songs to keep the disease out, according to video clips posted on social media.
The two-day Spring Festival usually turns into a spectacular outburst of colors, with people smudging each other's faces with green, yellow and red powders. But the spread of the Corona virus, which has infected nearly 40 people in India, appears to spoil this year's celebrations.
In a notice to warn people of the danger of the virus, the Ministry of Health stated, "They avoided participating in large gatherings," but wished them a happy holiday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that he will not celebrate the festival this year.
Store owners confirmed that their sales were affected by rumors that the colored powders and dyes used in this festival were imported from China.
The virus first appeared in China late last year.
"Customers have said between 50 and 60% at the very least," said Suresh Singh, a store owner selling powders and dyes in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh state.