KUALA LUMPUR: The novel coronavirus (2019-nCov) will not stop Hindu devotees from celebrating Thaipusam this Saturday.
Checks by the New Straits Times revealed that temples in the Klang Valley were preparing for the annual festival.
Many temple committees were completing their tasks, and marking off their checklists before the big day.
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Devasthanam chairman Tan Sri R. Nadarajah said this year’s celebration was more challenging as there was a heightened sense of anxiety due to the coronavirus.
“We are aware of what’s going on at the moment as the threat of the coronavirus spreading further still hangs in the air. Undoubtedly, it will be challenging for us,” he said.
“However, we will not let the outbreak stop us from organising the prayers. The devotees are also ready to celebrate Thaipusam.”
He said the temple committee had asked the authorities to provide more medical staff on standby and asked a company to donate face masks.
“We are waiting for a response from the authorities on the request for more emergency medical staff for Thaipusam.
“We have also checked with pharmacies, but they could not provide us with face masks as stocks have run out. However, we decided to work with a company that will provide about 10,000 face masks to us as part of its corporate social responsibility.”
He said the face masks will be distributed to devotees prior to prayers for Chettipusam starting at 7pm on Friday.
“As the supply of face masks is limited, the needy will be prioritised.”
He urged devotees to maintain proper hygiene.
Devotee Shashenta Rao, 25, said he had been stocking up on face masks and hand sanitisers ahead of the celebration.
“Prevention is better than cure. Sanitisers are important as we will be walking on the steps barefooted most of the time. Clean handkerchiefs are a must too.”
He expected fewer tourists and parents bringing infants this time around, but he still expected a big crowd.
“Everyone should take precautions and wear a face mask.”
University student Shagambari Parthiban, 24, said her family planned to distribute face masks at a temple in Penang.
“My family and I will be celebrating Thaipusam at the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Penang this year.
“It is a famous tourist spot and we have to climb 513 steps to reach the sacred place.”
She hoped that devotees will pray for a joyous year, despite the coronavirus outbreak.
“Practising basic hygiene, staying hydrated and being extra cautious will minimise the risk of contracting the virus.”
Thaipusam is observed by Hindus all over the world in the month of ‘Thai’ in the Tamil calendar to commemorate the act of Goddess Parvathi for presenting the “vel” (lance) to her son, Lord Muruga, as an embodiment of her “shakti” or power to vanquish the evil Soorapadman and restore peace and wellbeing.
During Thaipusam, Hindus fulfil their vows by carrying well-decorated “kavadis” and pots of milk as offerings to Lord Muruga.