Thousands join the silver chariot procession in Kuala Lumpur, carrying offerings and following Lord Murugan’s statue to Batu Caves for Thaipusam.
KUALA LUMPUR: Thousands of Hindu devotees carrying ceremonial trays thronged the city centre for the annual silver chariot procession ahead of Thaipusam.
The procession began from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple on Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, heading towards the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves.
The chariot carried the statue of Lord Murugan, accompanied by traditional music and devotees bearing milk pots and performing religious acts.
The atmosphere was lively and orderly, with police and volunteers managing security and traffic along the route.
Free food and drink stalls set up for visitors added to the festive mood.
Devotee K. Vishalini, 29, said attending from the starting point was deeply meaningful. “When we first see Lord Murugan on the chariot at the starting point, we feel truly blessed,” she said.
She added that her family planned to follow the procession to its destination. “We keep tracking the chariot, wherever it is at that moment, and from there we continue walking until Batu Caves.”
Vishalini highlighted that Thaipusam symbolised unity beyond personal vows. “Thaipusam is not only about prayers, it is also about unity,” she said.
Her husband, S. Suria Kumar, 30, emphasised the significance of the journey’s beginning. “From this point onwards, everyone moves together towards Batu Caves, and it is so beautiful to watch,” he said.
Kuala Lumpur traffic police chief ACP Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said traffic flow remained smooth.
He stated that 12 road junctions in the capital had been closed and diverted in stages to facilitate the procession, which was expected to reach Batu Caves early the next day.
