Keeping in mind the ongoing Covid-19 situation, the AP State Government has issued guidelines for observing Muharram 2021. This year, Muharram starts from August 10/11 to August 19/20 (as per the sighting of the moon). The guidelines have also been issued as a precautionary measure taken in view of the expected third wave of the pandemic.
On Friday, an official government order (GO 192) was issued by the Special Secretary (Minorities Welfare), Gandham Chandrudu IAS, informing that there are certain guidelines that need to be followed. Especially regarding the observing of Muharram and installation of Alams at Ashoorkhana (Peerla Chavidi). The GO has been made in agreement with the respective Mujawars/ Muthawallies/Managing Committees.
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The number of members in Fateha during Muharram 2021 cannot exceed more than 10 people and the Majlis cannot exceed 30 to 40 members in Majlis in AP. Even these members are to follow strict social distancing. Meanwhile, the general public is advised to offer Fateha/Majlis at their homes so as to avoid the spread of the virus. These guidelines are to be followed in all the districts.
Officials have advised senior citizens, children, people suffering from any symptoms of cough, cold or fever, citizens with diabetes, high blood pressure, and other coronary heart ailments to avoid coming to the Ashoorkhanas (Peerla Chawidi). They are advised to offer Fateha / Majlis at their home. The Muharram fire (alaava/agni gundam) shall be allowed if traditionally followed. Individuals are told to maintain a minimum distance of six feet and wear a mask.
Any distribution of tabarruk/sharbat during Muharram was advised to be given in sealed packets and the devotees are asked not to have it on the premises of Ashoorkhana (Peerla Chawidi). Also, the distribution of free drinking water supply stalls is prohibited and only sealed drinking water bottles/packets have to be provided.
Similar, covid restrictions were put last year too during the second wave pandemic.
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