THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) is encouraging Hindus throughout Guyana to offer prayers at their homes during the Navratri period due to the rising cases of COVID-19.
Navratri begins on Saturday, October 17, 2020.

GHDS President Dr. Vindhya Persaud is also encouraging pandits to conduct online or virtual satsangh so that persons can view and still observe the festival.
During the nine nights, the GHDS will be bringing the mandir to homes through chants, bhajans, kirtan, and online Satsangh on its Facebook page.
“We know that the Hindu community looks forward to this sacred period for collective worship or Satsangh, but COVID-19 threatens health and life; it is important for everyone to do everything possible to reduce their risk of exposure to this dreaded disease,” Dr. Persaud said.

She is, however, advising mandirs to adhere to the COVID-19 prevention guidelines as the Sabha is deeply concerned about the increase in the number of positive cases in the country.
The Sabha is therefore recommending that persons wear masks at all times when entering mandirs; must have handwashing facilities or sanitisers available; persons should stay six feet apart; bhojan (food) to be served in boxes and avoid congregation and eating on premises.

The Sabha members are also encouraging the elder persons, especially those suffering from chronic illnesses and immunosuppression states to observe the period at home.
Mandirs should also consider remaining open for longer periods each day to allow individual worship in a phased manner.
Navratri is the period when the feminine aspect of Goddess Lakshmi, Swarswattie, and Durga Mata is worshipped. Durga Mata removes all negativity and darkness, while Lakshmi Mata replenishes light and Swarswattie bestows wisdom and knowledge.