In an Instagram post on Jan 29, Minister of State (MOS) for Culture, Community and Youth Dinesh Vasu Dash announced that devotees will continue being allowed to register and participate in Thaipusam 2026.
This comes after a joint statement on Jan 27 by the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, and the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB), which stated that registration for the Feb 1 festival closed as the number of devotees registered had reached the limit at which the two temples can manage safely.
Devotees who have yet to register were previously advised to consider fulfilling their vows at other temples that are also observing the Thaipusam festival.
“We recognise that many devotees, including families and the elderly, have been participating for years. It is therefore important to enable as many devotees as possible to observe Thaipusam and to fulfil their vows. And that no devotee should be turned away,” MOS Dinesh said.
Mr Dinesh had recently visited the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple to understand the additional security and logistics provisions required. With the support of the Joint Organising Committee (JOC), comprising HEB and the two temples, he made two announcements.
Firstly, devotees who are keen to carry the Paal Kudams (milk pots) will be able to register their interest for selected timeslots from 8am on Jan 30 to 12pm on Jan 31 at Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple.
Secondly, those who may not be able to walk the distance but are keen to offer the Paal Kudam may also register their interest at at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple from 8am on Jan 30 to 12pm on Jan 31.
Given that Thaipusam 2026 falls on a Sunday, Mr Dinesh acknowledged that a larger turnout is expected, advising devotees to also consider fulfilling their vows at any Hindu temple offering arrangements for devotees to take Paal Kudam at their temple premises.
He then thanked the JOC, volunteers, and supporting agencies for their tremendous efforts behind the scenes to ensure the festival runs smoothly.
“As with all years, there may be challenges such as congestion or inclement weather. We seek everyone’s patience and cooperation as we work together for a meaningful and safe Thaipusam this year!” Mr Dinesh said.
On Jan 31, the Mr Dinesh gave an update on the registrations for Thaipusam 2026 on social media.
“I am happy to report that several devotees have visited both the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, and have registered for Paal Kudams tomorrow,” he said in an Instagram post.
“More importantly, no devotee was turned away,” he added.
The post also stated that devotees will experience queues, longer waiting times, and some delays as about a 20 to 30 per cent larger turnout is anticipated for this year’s Thaipusam.
Mr Dinesh then advised those who are unable to cope with large crowds, especially those with young children or the elderly, to avoid peak periods or try visiting other temples.
Acknowledging the challenging situation, the minister of state urged devotees to remain patient and understanding throughout the festival. “Let us cooperate fully, follow all guidelines, and do our part to ensure the safety of all devotees,” he said.
