Devotees to get ‘Kumkum’ and ‘Gandha’ in temples for now

Udupi: While the state government has decided to open temples and other religious places from June 8, it is yet to decide on distributing ‘Teertham.’ However, the devotees would be given ‘Kumkum’ and ‘Gandha,’ in the temples.

Endowment Department Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary who spoke to reporters at Udupi on Sunday gave brief details about what would be there and whatnot in the temples after June 8.

Temples would open for devotees but with conditions. People will have to follow social distancing, wearing masks, and also maintain cleanliness.

The restriction will continue on events like ‘Jatre,’ annual festivals that attract the crowd. 

However, devotees will not be allowed to touch the deity and offer pooja. A detailed guideline would be provided shortly.

“We had proposed to open the temples from June 1 and had expected a nod from the central government. But they have decided to open all the religious institutions from June 8. We will abide by it and all the temples coming under the Endowment department would be open from that date. However, if the temples not coming under our department decides not to open then it is their take,” he said.