GEORGE TOWN, Jan. 23 — The Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) has clarified that music at Thaneer Panthals (decorated stalls) will cease at 11 p.m. on February 1 during Thaipusam celebrations as a safety precaution, following overcrowding issues experienced last year.
Thaipusam Music Cutoff Explained
PHEB deputy chairman Dr. R. Lingeshwaran stated the directive applies only to the night of February 1 to ensure kavadi bearers can reach the hilltop Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga in time for the Thirukaapu ritual at 11 p.m., and does not signify an end to the Thaipusam celebrations.
“Thaipusam does not end at 11 p.m. and the panthal operators are free to continue serving devotees and fulfilling their noble duties throughout the night,” Lingeshwaran said in a Facebook post.
He explained that while the board would have preferred to continue the event until midnight, the safety of devotees is the priority. Police initially proposed a 10 p.m. cutoff after a human stampede last year, but following discussions with PHEB, the time was extended to 11 p.m.
More than one million devotees attended Thaipusam last year, with seven individuals fainting due to congestion, hindering ambulance access, according to police records. Organizers anticipate an even larger crowd this year due to the long weekend.
PHEB will continue to collaborate with police and other authorities, and will work to extend the music until midnight in future celebrations if crowd management and safety objectives can be met.
On January 17, PHEB chairman RSN Rayer announced the introduction of a special permit system for devotees carrying the Ratham Kavadi to regulate entry times and prevent congestion. Panthal operators were also reminded to adhere to guidelines, including playing only religious songs and complying with the ban on entertainment music.
The regulations have prompted debate among Indian devotees on social media, with some expressing dissatisfaction with PHEB.
Over a million Hindu devotees and tourists are expected in Penang for the Thaipusam festival on February 1.
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