India, Nov. 6 -- For the first time in decades, Mehrauli will miss the fragrance, colour and community spirit of its iconic Phool Walon Ki Sair, the centuries-old festival that celebrates communal harmony. Held annually at Aam Bagh, the event has been cancelled this year after the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) denied permission. This has left everyone involved with the festival in a state of dismay.

"It is very disappointing not just for us, but for all those who attend every year. It is such a spirit of community that can be sensed in the air... It has made the year feel incomplete," says Usha Kumar, general secretary of Anjuman Sair-e-Gul Faroshan, which has been organising the festival since 1961.

The organisers confirm that the ...