Fireworks, Conch Shells, Religious Chants: Twitter Reacts To India’s 9-Minute Blackout

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his speech on April 3 had appealed to the nation that they switch off all their lights at 9pm for 9 minutes on April 5 and light earthen lamps or candles to express solidarity during these trying times of the lockdown.

And of course, people followed the prime minister’s call with gusto, but some perhaps a little too enthusiastically. Several parts of the country witnessed bursting of loud firecrackers, that extended way beyond the 9 minutes. Some people also blew conch shells and chants like ‘Bharat mata ki jai‘ and ‘jai shree ram‘.

And while the majority of the citizens participated in this event which some are calling ‘second Diwali’, the senseless use of firecrackers did not go down well with many on Twitter. Here’s what they had to say:

Eerie Similarity Or Just A Coincidence?

Some People Really Missed The Point

Just When Air Quality Had Improved

They Didn’t Get The Memo

This User Made A Fair Point

This User Couldn’t Resist Sneaking In A Pun

Flouting Norms With Good Reason

Let’s Not Forget, Covid-19 Attacks Our Respiratory System

This User Didn’t Sugar Coat His Words

Sarcasm Is Strong With This One

Let’s remember that while lighting a diya or clapping is a great gesture, it becomes meaningless if you are not doing anything to realistically help our medical workers and those in need. So don’t forget to donate to NGOs working with migrant labourers, feed stray animals in your vicinity and most importantly, practice social distancing!

Featured Image: Instagram/Rediff