No Valentine's Day, celebrate Maha Shivratri instead: Lucknow University to students

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Lucknow: Lucknow University has asked its students not to roam on the campus on February 14, Valentine's Day, threatening to take strict action against anyone who fails to observe the orders. 

Issuing a strict advisory, the varsity indirectly asked students to celebrate Maha Shivratri and avoid the influence of 'Western' culture.

“Over the past few years, it's been observed that under the influence of Western culture, youth are celebrating 14.2.2018 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,” said a notice from the varsity. 

Lucknow University issues advisory to its students to not to roam inside the premises of the university on Valentine's Day (14.2.2018). Disciplinary action will be taken against whosoever is found violating the advisory. pic.twitter.com/dQ8cdESICK

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 13, 2018

The notice goes on to inform that the varsity will remain closed on Wednesday and that there'll be no cultural programmes or exams or classes on that day.

The university also asked parents not to send students to campus on Wednesday. 

This is not the first time that the university has issued such a notice on Valentine's Day.

In 2009, authorities banned carrying of flowers, bouquets and gifts on campus on Valentine's Day, to prevent any untoward incidents or misbehaviour against girls.

In 2014, the varsity once issued a list of dos and don'ts for students, ahead of Valentine's Day.