Hindu devotees perform their religious rites during the Thaipusam celebration in compliance with the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs). The colourful and vibrant celebration was scaled down for the second consecutive year much to the disappointment of many.

The only consolation will be the sight of “paal koodam” bearers in yellow, carrying milk pots, along with the chariot procession, albeit with a limited number of participants. 

The National Security Council imposed strict SOPs to contain the pandemic, especially with the emergence of the highly infectious Omicron variant.