Hounding huggers in hug-ophobic NZ

Congenital huggers, relax. Whether you're a Diwali-Id et al embracer, or a head of government with a hug-iographic obsession, no one's coming in the way of you and the galeys you lagao. India is not a hug police state. But in Dunedin, New Zealand, a sign outside the airport may cause consternation. With a drawing of a waving hand, it says, 'Its (sic) hard to say goodbye. So make it quick, 3 mins max.' Now, 180 secs should be enough for us to clasp each other in utter bonhomie or departure regret. But for hardcore embracers, 3 mins may not be enough - especially if the first two selfies were deemed not up to scratch.

Dunedin Airport CEO Dan De Bono (no relation of Edward, the lateral thinker) says it's to decongest the drop-off area from lingering body-locks. He has also mentioned - probably to cover up a future nefarious plan - that visitors need not worry about enforcement of the 'rule' too much. Embarrassingly-long embracers will be told to move into the parking lot where they can cuddle free of charge for up to 15 mins. That's what Hitler said when he said Germany won't invade Czechoslovakia. So, for all those seeking political asylum from clasp-ophobic New Zealand, India welcomes you - with wrapped arms and a warm, tight, however-long-you-want embrace. Just ensure it's purely platonic, whether outside airports or on park benches.