Perumal, 39, has taken the announcement in stride and with an open heart. “For the sake of the country and the people, I am willing to accept these losses and I hope the government can help small traders like me,” he told FMT.

The government’s sudden announcement on Thursday of the kavadi ban had come as a shock to the Banting-based craftsman, who was already fielding orders from eager celebrants.

“There had been good news when the authorities said the Thaipusam celebrations would go ahead. I started to receive orders and was in the process of making preparations to build the kavadis.

“But now, everything is cancelled. The money people had paid me to reserve their orders now needs to be returned.”

In fact, he had lowered prices to adapt to the trying times and to attract customers.

“Many had lost their income but still had the desire to celebrate, so I made the decision to cut my prices from RM750 to around RM300, even if I had to absorb some of the costs.”

Before the ban was announced, he had already received around 20 orders including one from a senior state leader. Before the pandemic, he often had as many as 60 orders a year.

Despite the difficulties, Perumal, a technician by occupation, has never considered giving up the craft he’s been perfecting for 20 years.

“I believe this is all a challenge from God, and we will get through it. I will continue to do this and will hopefully pass on my knowledge to my son. Hopefully next year, after we overcome the issues we face now, we can revive the festivities and celebrate more comfortably.”