The dhaki’s drumming and the scent of bhog will be missing from the list of festivities for this year’s Durga Puja.

To maintain social distancing in view of the Covid pandemic, the Jamshedpur Durga Puja Kendriya Samity (JDPKS) has also omitted lighting and decoration for the big occasion, which is scheduled between October 22 to 26.

Big budget pandals have already been struck out of the scene.

The pandemic has dealt a heavy blow to the size of idols, which can now be no longer than 2.5ft, and the eagerly-awaited pushpanjali, which can now only be offered in batches of five persons each.

A Durga idol in Jamshedpur last year Bhola Prasad

JDPKS general secretary Rambabu Singh said they have imposed the restrictions in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are helpless and restrictions have to be imposed. Covid cases are on the rise in Jamshedpur and there was a need to keep things low-profile this time,” he added.

He said puja committees were informed about the restrictions and asked to comply.

A meeting with the puja organisers will be called after August 15 to discuss.

“Puja organisers have been asked to keep the idols small this time. Puja organised by societies in residential flats will perform the rituals by placing a small photo of the deities,” Singh said, adding social distancing is the key aspect attached to the celebrations.

Small idols will help in swifter and hassle-free immersion with less number of people.

Big vehicles like trucks and trailers will not be required to carry idols for immersion.

Speaking to The Telegraph Online, Singh said puja committees will be distributing coconuts and fruits to those who have given donations last year.

“Devotees who have made contributions last year cannot be sent empty-handed when they leave the pandals,” he added, indicating that a fair number of pujas will be held in temples.

“The economy is in poor shape due to the pandemic and the question of setting up big budget pandals does not arise. Moreover, big pandals will mean larger gatherings of revellers. Maintaining social distancing will come up as a critical issue”, a JDPKS functionary said.

A smaller number of people will be coming out of the homes during pujas in view of the pandemic.

“Revellers would be cautious this time,” he said.

Purvi Singhbhum Central Durga Puja Samity (PSCDPS), which supervises 488 pujas in city and rural areas, has also come out with similar restrictions.

Both the puja outfits will be meeting the East Singhbhum district administration to discuss issues.

The decision of the district administration will be key when it comes to the big occasion amid the pandemic.