Reopening of temples for devotees: Sanitisers likely to replace theerta

Mangaluru: Muzrai Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary recently stated that the government will take a decision on reopening of temples for the devotees as lockdown restrictions are being eased across the nation.

Temples had been closed for devotees as part of the measures to contain coronavirus. As the government has now started easing the restrictions, the demand for reopening of temples is also being voiced.

The government has set up certain protocols to be followed as it allowed functioning of certain industrial, transport sectors and the same is likely to be in case of temples too.

So what can we expect when we visit the temple in the post covid world. Sources privy to preparation of the SOP said that the sanitiser is likely to replace the theertha offered at the temple.

Apart from social distancing norms and face masks, it is likely that devotees may not be allowed to offer flowers, fruits and coconuts as a precautionary measure stated the sources. The decision to ban the offering is however likely to impact livelihoods of several families.