Be sure to wear your mask, and make sure you’re fully vaccinated!

With Thaipusam just a day away, devotees have started to fulfill their vows to Lord Murugan by carrying ‘Paal Kudham’ and offering prayers ahead of the actual festival day.

To make everything easier for our fellow readers, team Varnam has come up with a list of do and don’ts of Thaipusam 2022 celebration to avoid any Thaipusam cluster.

DO’S

Must be registered & wear a tag

Devotees are advised to register themselves under the temple management. Those who are successfully registered will be given a tag and make sure to wear it while you’re in the temple compound.

Wear a surgical mask and carry a hand sanitizer

Protect others as well as yourself by wearing a mask. But, bear in mind that wearing a mask will not prevent the transmission of COVID-19; we must maintain physical distance and wash our hands often.

Check the opening hours

Well, this is a must to avoid any confusion about the timing as there’ll be a temporary closure which is due to Hindus’ belief that the lunar eclipse is an unfortunate period as it is thought to block the sun and moon’s energies from reaching Earth

Jan 19 from 5am to 5pm
18 sessions were set for Jan 18 from 5am to 11pm

Besides that, it’s important to plan the real-time path to prevent large crowds as well.

Celebrate moderately with gratitude

One of the most essential things to bear in mind is to embrace this holy day in moderation while maintaining the SOPs. While it may be tempting to gather with our loved ones and share our joy with people of all cultures and races, our safety and health should always remain the same.

Don’ts

Do not litter trash including MASKS around temple ground

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus, let’s not litter around the temple compound. This is because germs can be transmitted directly by physically coming into contact with litter. This can happen by picking up, touching, or by accidentally injuring themselves on improperly disposed of trash.

PSA to those who are unwell

If you are down with a cough, cold and fever, please stay home and watch the Thaipusam festivities live here. Kindly wear a surgical mask, and avoid touching any surfaces and wash your hands frequently.

The transmission of the virus by touch does not seem to be discussed adequately. We encounter so many surfaces on a daily basis that we aren’t even aware of it until we touch our skin. To reduce your risk of contracting the virus, carry a bottle of hand sanitiser and some soap with you.