NEVADA (TIP): Worldwide Hindus have commended Singapore government for reportedly allowing live music at colorful Thaipusam Hindu street procession in January, for the first time in over four decades.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) called it a step in the positive direction.

The instruments reportedly allowed on this about three kilometers route; which begins at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and ends at the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple on January 24; are the nadhaswaram clarinet, a barrel-shaped drum called the tavil, and the urumi melam or Indian drum. Ban has been reportedly in place since 1973.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, indicated that traditions of music and dance were important in Hinduism and these go back in history. Elements of musical theory were first found in ancient Sama-Veda, and by tradition, the dance was invented by Lord Shiva who first danced the cosmic tandava.

Rajan Zed further said that Hindu community had made lot of contributions to the nation and society in Singapore and it was a nice gesture on the part of the government to allow live music in their religious procession. Zed also commended Singapore Hindu Endowments Board for their efforts in this regard.