By Sue-Ann Wayow
THE Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS) has written to Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh asking that all watercourses be opened for religious use.
The letter dated Tuesday written by SDMS acting general secretary Vijay Maharaj explained the religious ceremony of dasgaath which is the shaving ritual that takes place on the tenth day of cremation was curtailed due to the previous public health restrictions.
Maharaj said that Hindus willingly abided with the restrictions and sought alternative ways to perform their sacred rituals.
He wrote, “The Maha Sabha designated certain temples on whose compounds the dasgaath ceremonies could be performed. This recommendation was made with the understanding that it was a temporary measure until we had access to rivers once again.
“Today, the SDMS wishes to ask that you consider opening up the rivers for public use, even with similar restrictions as the beaches.”
Maharaj stated that the dasgaath ceremony was generally a sombre one without the use of alcohol, includes a small number of people and usually last just under four hours.
“In other words, if access is granted to the rivers for the performance of this ceremony, there is reasonably little or no risk that it would be a spreader event for the Covid-19 virus,” he wrote.
He stated that SDMS was fully understanding that Covid-19 protocols needed to be put in place but also, there was the need to balance precautions with the responsible practice of religious rites.
Beaches are presently open from 5 am to 12 noon.
