Lucknow University has issued a circular warning students against roaming in the college campus on 14 February. The circular said that strict disciplinary action will be taken against students caught disobeying the circular.
Over the past few years, it has been witnessed that under the influence of Western culture, youth are celebrating 14 February as Valentine’s Day. All students are hereby informed that on 14.2.2018, the university will remain closed on the occasion of Maha Shivratri.Lucknow University Circular
The circular, dated 10 February 2018, says that the university will be closed on 14 February on the occasion of Maha Shivratri and that no cultural programs or classes will take place during the day.
However, people have shown mixed reactions to the university's decision to not open on the day to 'prevent' students from mingling and socialising within University premises.
Aarav Pratap Singh, a Delhi youth, said that this is a very good step by the university.
Love is everywhere, but public displays of affection is wrong and I am with the university on this decision. This sabotages our Indian culture.Aarav Pratap Singh, a Delhi youth
However, a couple contradicted such views. “Everyone should get a chance to celebrate love. Valentine’s Day does not sabotage Indian culture. Some want to celebrate love while others want to celebrate Maha Shivratri instead and they should do so,” the couple said.
Vishwajit, a student from Delhi, said that this is not about culture, it's about one's own thinking.
A spiritual or religious person would go ahead to celebrate Maha Shivratri, while couples would want to spend the day together. It totally depends on the kind of thinking one has. I don’t think this sabotages our culture, only people with chhoti soch (narrow minds) think that Valentine’s Day compromises Indian culture.Vishwajit, Student
This is not the first time the University has shown displeasure against Valentine's Day. In 2009, the University had banned students from bringing flowers, bouquets and gifts on campus for Valentine's Day. The reason stated at the time was to prevent any misbehaviour against girls.
In 2014 also they had issued do's and dont's for students ahead of that year's Valentine's Day.
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