Manohar Parrikar's birthday is finally going to be a 'simple' event

The criticism faced by Bhartiya Janata Party over plans of allegedly spending Rs 20 crore on Defence Minister and former Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar's birthday celebrations has finally convinced the party to plan a more simple and austere bash.

Vinay Tendulkar, the Goa state BJP president on 12 December, cleared the air and said that a simple programme would be organised at Campal ground in Panaji, to felicitate Parrikar.

'Simple man' Manohar Parrikar had also urged his party members, on 10 December, to spend the money in helping Chennai flood victims instead of organising a lavish birthday party.

"Let us stand with the people of Chennai in their difficult times. I urge my well wishers not to spend on advertisements/ presents and/ or flowers on my birthday and instead contribute towards Chief Minister of Goa Chennai Relief Fund," he said in a statement at Panaji.

Following his request, BJP leaders decided to tone-down the celebrations and do way with any over-the-top decorations and a buffet dinner.

Read More: P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } Why is BJP spending crores to celebrate birthday of 'the simple man' Manohar Parrikar?

What is the programme?

• The party will commence after arrival of Parrikar along with Goa CM Laxmikant Parsekar.

• Union Minister Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari are expected to reach the venue at around 4:45 pm.

• All the leaders will address the gathering after which Parrikar will make a public appearance.

• About 50,000 people from across the state are expected to attend the event.

• The party had ordered a 60-metre-long rose garland but the order was cancelled few days ago.

• Reportedly, 900 buses would be used to carry people to the venue.