Ever since the 5 paise per message scheme was brought into implementation, everyone started not sending messages to anyone. Worse, when the service providers decided to charge extra amount during festival days, every wishes came right before the day. There was a recent festival when I received almost no messages that day because I already got advanced wishes before the day itself.
Some smart service providers decided to charge 50 paise on and before the festive day. Damn! These service providers don’t want people to wish anyone. Every wish became advanced wishes! From Advanced Pongal to Advanced Diwali wishes.
Even a call to a local mobile cost only up to Re.1. That equals the cost of sending two messages on the festive day. So which choice would anyone prefer? It is better to call and speak for a minute than sending two short messages.
This scheme reminds me of something that a friend of mine, who is currently in Singapore, said – that in Singapore, watching a movie on a weekday is more expensive. The reason behind this is that there would be lesser number of visitors during weekdays. But in this 50 paise festival scheme, it is just the reverse. People stopped sending messages just because it is expensive (atleast per 100 messages).
Anyways, wish you all Advance Happy New Year!!! 
