Cuttack/Balasore: Valentine’s Day celebration has always been a controversial affair in India. Moral policing by political parties and religious groups on V-Day is known to all, but Parent’s Day celebration in schools on February 14 is an entirely new affair.
Balia Saraswati Vidya Mandir in Balasore and Mangalabag Saraswati Vidya Mandir in Cuttack observed Parent’s Day or Matru-Pitru Diwas on their campuses on Friday.
These schools invited parents to grace the occasion. Students were made to light the sacred lamp and offer flowers and sweets to parents, and seek their blessings.
Rape accused Asaram Bapu, who is currently behind the bars, had started this practice to protest against Valentine’s Day celebrations which is believed to be a ‘western culture’.
On the other hand, political outfits were seen harassing and reprimanding couples, celebrating V-Day in different parts of the country.