Thaipusam: A Quick Look At the SOPs

National Unity minister Halimah Sadique recently announced the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Thaipusam celebrations tomorrow (Jan 18).

Here is a quick look of the Dos and Don'ts when you pay your penance to Lord Muruga.

• Only fully vaccinated adults aged 18 and above will be allowed to participate in celebrations, and practising physical distancing of one metre and wearing face masks at all times, are a must.
• Kavadi bearing is completely prohibited at all locations of celebration
• Chariot processions are allowed, but only a limited number of temple committee members are allowed to follow the procession.
• Milk pot (paal kudam) bearing is allowed, but devotees must register with the temple in advance and wear a tag issues by the temple.
• Head shaving is allowed, in line with current SOPs for barbershops.
• Ritual baths are allowed, but only at areas prescribed by the temple management.
• No temporary stalls are allowed to be set up around the temple area. Permanent ones are, however, allowed to operate.
• "Thannir pandhal" and "annathaanam" (food and drink offerings) are prohibited, either during chariot processions or around the temples.

For the full set of SOPs, take a look at the statement by Halimah below:



Photo source: CNN