I have not attended 2018’s Thaipusam procession but I have been well informed of the unhappiness people have faced in the procession through uncountable videos surfacing the net. 

What was the last straw to me is when a video of 2 little girls who were singing for their family member was stopped by the officials(police and a representative from HEB). The reason for stopping them from singing is because “PEOPLE ARE SLEEPING”. Well I do understand that for obvious reasons, but I believe that my fellow singaporeans are being unfairly treated as our culture is not respected as all we ask for is just for 1 day. However I do understand one of the reason of the ban of no musical instruments is because of other non classic instruments being played and people who create havoc on a beautiful religious event, it still gives NO REASON FOR NO SINGING. The objective and reason for music to be played in the first place is entirely forgotten! Devotees take this day to be spiritually one with god and to celebrate a beautiful event of devotion! Moreover, music makes the beautiful yet somewhat difficult journey better! I don’t see any reason for any of it. If A ban should come, it should only be for non classical instruments. Please give Hinduism some respect and give us the freedom to pray, Devote and celebrate! Please do not kill our culture.