Health Ministry guidelines on celebrating Deepavali

The Hindu Religious and Cultural Affairs department has issued guidelines regarding holding Deepavali festival tomorrow (14).

The department has imposed several restrictions in view of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.

R. Kargen, the Assistant Director of the department states that all ceremonies should be limited to the essential elements and should be conducted with the participation of a maximum number of five people as per the health instructions.

It also adds that all customs should be practised under the guidance of health authorities.

Mr.Kargen further stated that, “We recommended celebrating the festival at home without visiting friends and family and to greet their loved ones through telephone calls”.

Issuing a press release, the Ministry of Health advised the public to avoid spreading the infection to their loved ones in high-risk areas such as Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara by remaining at their residences instead of gathering.

“To preserve the good feelings the festival brings, the public must be vigilant that no Hindu devotees get infected with the virus during this festive season”, Secretary of the Ministry Viraj Abeysinghe said.

Meanwhile, Hindu devotees have also been advised not to light open flames after using hand sanitizers which contains highly flammable liquid.

Further, parties involving alcohol and cigarettes should not be held, the Ministry said.