Please tell us about the social behaviour that inspired the work

For centuries, people in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu have worshipped Mariamman. She is a deity that has been believed to ward off contagious diseases. During her worship, devotees follow age-old rituals that prevent the spread of diseases. They would seal the village to outsiders, abstain from eating food cooked outside their home, they would regularly bathe in neem and turmeric which are natural antiseptics. Lighting a lamp is auspicious in India, which is why Dheepam lamp oil decided to bring in a cultural context to COVID. Which is why we brought Mariamman to life. She went from door to door, delivering a theatrical sermon to the residents, telling them about the importance of social distancing, wearing a mask and sanitising their hands. She also distributed masks and sanitisers to the people of the area. Her followers hung on her every word and began practicing COVID preventive measures.