Navratri: Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha urges strict adherence to COVID-19 Guidelines

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has issued the following statement ahead of Navratri: 

As the Hindu Community prepares to observe the auspicious period of Sharad Navratri which commences on Saturday October 17, 2020, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is advising all mandirs and devotees to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 prevention guidelines.

The Sabha is deeply concerned about the escalating numbers of positive cases across the country. For mandirs planning to open for Satsangh, the following must be observed –

• Persons entering the mandir must wear masks at all times
• That there be handwashing facilities or sanitizers available
• That individuals/ families remain 6 feet apart
• That bhojan be boxed and shared. Avoid congregating and eating on the premises
• Limit occupancy to not more than 25% of the mandir capacity. Do not have large crowds in the mandirs.
• Elderly persons and those suffering from chronic illness and immunosuppression states should observe the period at home.

Mandirs can consider remaining open for longer periods each day to allow individual worship in a phased manner.

Worship at Home

We encourage prayer at home, fasting and disciplined observance of the period which dedicates 9 nights to the worship of Ad Shakti Maa. Pandits are encouraged to conduct online or virtual Satsangh.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will be bringing the mandir to homes through chants, bhajans, kirtan and online Satsangh on its Facebook page throughout the period.

We know that the Hindu community looks forward to this sacred period for collective worship or Satsangh, but Covid-19 threatens health and life; it is important for everyone to do everything possible to reduce their risk of exposure to this dreaded disease.

As you worship Durga Ma to dispel negativity, Lakshmi Mata to usher in abundance and light and finally, Saraswati Mata for knowledge and wisdom, it is our fervent hope that you will all be safe and enjoy good health.

Let this period of Navratri bring inner peace, positivity and spiritual upliftment.