CORONAVIRUS | Malaysians who celebrate the festivals of Vaisakhi, Vishu and Chithirai Puthandu (Tamil New Year) have been reminded that this year's celebrations must be low-key and carried out at home due to the movement control order (MCO) which will be in place until April 28.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) president Mohan Shan said it is a good chance for Malaysia's Hindus, both Tamil and Malayalee (who celebrate Vishu) to enjoy the day with their families.
"Normally, we don't get the chance to celebrate Chithirai Puthandu and Vishu with our family members because these days are not public holidays and hence fall on a working day.
“Therefore, this year is the best chance to commemorate the day with our family members.
"Even though devotees will not be allowed to visit the temple for prayers, the prayers can be carried out at home with our families," Mohan said, when contacted by Malaysiakini.
Mohan said that Chithirai Puthandu would actually fall at 10.04pm tonight, but that it would be celebrated on April 14 following the sunrise.
"Tomorrow morning – 8am until 9.30am – is the best time to do your prayers. Make good food. Usher in the new year with your loved ones in the spirit of harmony for the community and the country," he said.
Chithirai Puthandu is the first day of the Hindu solar calendar. This year will be known as the Year of Sarvari.
While for Malayalees, Vishu marks the first day of the Zodiac New Year and the first day of the month is called Medam, according to the official almanac of Sri Guruvayoorappan Devaswom Kerala; Kerala Mathrubumi Panjangam; Kerala Valya Panjangam and Kerala Manorama Panjangam.
Malayalees believe that the new year will be better if one views auspicious joyful things as the first thing on Vishu.
Meanwhile, Gurdwaras Council of Malaysia president Sardar Jagir Singh called on the Sikh community in Malaysia to pray from home for world peace on Vaisakhi New Year.
"According to the Sikh Nanakshahi calendar, the new year will begin on April 14. My advice to those who wish to celebrate is to please celebrate at home because of the MCO rules.”
When contacted, Jagir said celebrating at home with family members meant the same thing as going to a place of worship.
"Most importantly, parents should teach young people to understand the meaning of sarbat da bhala which means grace for everyone.
"I want to pray for the world to recover from the Covid-19 outbreak," he said.
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the implementation of the MCO on March 18 in an effort to curb the Covid-19 outbreak.
The MCO is currently in its second phase and a third phase will commence from April 15 to April 28.
People are urged to stay at home and no religious ceremony can be carried out in public places. - Mkini
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