Thaipusam celebrations across Malaysia attracted thousands of devotees and tourists, showcasing vibrant rituals and the nation’s multicultural spirit.
KUALA LUMPUR: Kavadi processions and devotional chants filled major Hindu temples nationwide for Thaipusam.
The festival saw devotees fulfilling vows through rituals like milk offerings and head shaving, symbolising sacrifice and purity.
The Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple at Batu Caves was a focal point, with visitors arriving from early morning.
Turkish tourist Elfie, 33, described her first experience as uniquely vibrant and spiritually rich.
“This festival is very different from my country,” she said.
Elfie added that the celebration provided meaningful insight into Malaysia’s cultural diversity.
Local visitor Nordin Sabli, 51, attended with his Japanese wife to share the multicultural experience.
He emphasised the importance of firsthand understanding of different beliefs and cultures within Malaysian society.
In Selangor, over 5,000 devotees gathered at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Kuala Selangor.
State executive councillor V. Papparaidu said visitor numbers were expected to reach 30,000 by nightfall.
“The state government always provides support to ensure the smooth conduct of religious ceremonies and the safety of visitors,” he told reporters.
The local community also contributed food and water for distribution.
Penang’s celebrations began with devotees walking two kilometres to the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Temple.
French tourist Pierre Laurent, 45, said the festival added a deeper layer to Penang’s renowned cultural heritage.
In Kedah, activities at the Sungai Petani temple included free food distribution for early arrivals.
German tourist Ute, 77, expressed delight at witnessing Malaysia’s unique customs and colourful traditional attire.
Ipoh’s Sri Subramaniar Temple on Mount Cheroh drew thousands for chariot processions and vows.
Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad hoped the festival would strengthen community bonds and bring prosperity.
Johor’s Arulmigu Thendayuthapani Temple anticipated 50,000 attendees over two days.
State unity committee chairman K. Raven Kumar said Thaipusam reflects values of patience, discipline and spiritual strength.
Negeri Sembilan’s largest temple in Seremban distributed 5,000 free food packs after prayers.
In Perlis, the focus was on modest devotion, with about 100 worshippers attending morning prayers.
Melaka saw active youth participation, with volunteers like N. Darwin, 20, helping distribute milk offerings.
Sabah’s celebrations in Lok Kawi highlighted racial harmony, with communities of different faiths participating together.
Christian attendee Connie Josech, 50, said her involvement began after marrying her Hindu husband two decades ago.
She highlighted Sabah’s spirit of mutual respect and shared celebration across religious backgrounds.
