Hibiscus Coast Navaratri Committee cancels public prayer
As there is uncertainty as to when the Covid-19 lockdown regulations will be lifted, this has affected the continuation of the public prayer this year as it takes months to plan.
The Hibiscus Coast Navaratri Committee has cancelled its public puja for Navaratri 2020 which was scheduled to take place at the Arya Samaj from October 17 to 24.
According to the committee’s Ashok Ramouthar, certain regulations under lockdown alert level 2 have impacted the event – gatherings of only 50 people are allowed at faith-based institutions and international passenger flights are prohibited.
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As there is uncertainty as to when the regulations will be lifted, it has affected the continuation of the public prayer this year as it takes months to plan.
According to Mr Ramouthar, the daily prayer would have to be capped at 50 attendees at a time, a practice not promoted by the organisation previously because of its open door policy.
The prayer would also have to be conducted without the guidance of Shastriji Ramsusheel Chaturvedi from India, as the borders remain closed for international travel.
Mr Ramouthar added that the prayer would take place in an uncomfortable manner since social distancing and wearing of masks are mandatory.
Also, in the event of an attendee testing positive for Covid-19, fumigation would have to be carried out, along with self-isolation for 10 days.
“After taking the different scenarios into consideration, we have decided to cancel the event. This does not mean that the puja will not happen, it means it will take place in the comfort of your home with your loved ones,” he said.
However, to observe this auspicious occasion, and to live up to its commitment which it has been fulfilling since 2012, the Hibiscus Coast Navaratri Committee will live stream the prayer on Sunday, October 18.
It will be officiated by a priest from India who is currently in South Africa.
Despite the current pandemic, the committee will also be holding discussions for its annual Diwali hamper distribution to the elderly and less fortunate.
It thanked current sponsors for their commitment and welcomes new sponsorship.
Calendars to keep the community updated on the religious year ahead will also be available shortly.
“The pandemic has been a challenging journey for everyone. It has taught us lessons and has helped us appreciate the things we so easily take for granted, such as our health, family and our normal lives.
“The road ahead is going to be tough and prayer is the only source of reassurance that will help in dealing the current stress,” said Mr Ramouthar.
Look out for more information on the committee’s Facebook page or contact Anosha Ramouthar on 074 897 6413.
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