As Guyana’s Hindu community observes the period of Sharad Navratri, which began yesterday, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is advising all mandirs and devotees to adhere strictly to the country’s guidelines on preventing the spread of COVID-19.
The Sabha on Friday registered its deep concern about the escalating numbers of positive cases across the country. As a result, it said in a statement that for mandirs planning to open for Satsangh, occupancy should be limited to not more than 25% of the mandir’s capacity to avoid large crowds, while handwashing facilities or sanitisers should available and masks should be mandatory for all persons present. It further urged that individuals/families remain 6 feet apart and that bhojan be boxed and shared. It also suggested that mandirs consider remaining open for longer periods each day to allow individual worship in a phased manner. Additionally, the Sabha said elderly persons and those suffering from chronic illness and immunosuppression states should observe the period at home.
