Hindu Devotees Fulfil Vows In Celebration Of Thaipusam

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- More than a million people, Hindus and tourists alike, thronged Lord Murugan temples in the country of Malaysia on Sunday in conjunction with the Thaipusam celebration. While Hindu devotees fulfilled their vows by carrying the "kavadi" or pots of milk, the tourists were mesmerised by the unique celebration where the 'kavadi' bearers had spikes pierced onto their bodies as they fulfilled their penance for answered prayers. The crowds were the biggest at the three major Lord Murugan temples -- the Sri Subramaniyar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves (picture) just outside Kuala Lumpur, the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthabani Temple or Waterfall Temple in George Town, Malaysia's northern state of Penang, and the Sri Subramaniyar Swamy Temple in Gunong Cheroh, in the state of Ipoh. Thaipusam, included in the tourism calendar of Malaysia, falls on the full moon day in the Tamil month of "Thai" and is celebrated over three days. On the first day (Saturday), a chariot bearing the idol of Lord Murugan goes on a procession through the streets, usually starting at the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, to the Lord Murugan temple. The fulfilling of vows by devotees takes place on the second day. On the third day, the chariot bearing the idol of Lord Murugan returns to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. (photoBERNAMA) MALAYSIA