THIS year's Thaipusam celebrations got off to a splendid start in Penang with over a million devotees braving the hot sun and dry taps to offer prayers and partake in the religious procession to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple.
The temple is also known as the Waterfall Hilltop Temple near the landmark Botanic Gardens.
The devotees were seen marching with “kavadi” or “paal kudam" (pot filled with cow’s milk) to fulfil vows and give thanks to the Gods.
Some devotees were seen early, as they took advantage of the complimentary public transport services from free cross-channel catamaran ferries to Rapid Penang bus services to strategic locations of the procession route.
Traffic came to a snarl in Penang, as the procession passed strategic roads here, but traffic police were on hand to ensure no untoward incidents occurred.
The two chariots - the Silver and Golden have also arrived at their locations to herald the start of the religious festival, which takes about three days.
Penang Hindu Endowment Board chairman (PHEB) RSN Rayer, said he hoped the "unity" celebration of bringing together the significance of both chariots would be rejoiced by the devotees.
Rayer, who is marking his first Thaipusam as the PHEB chairman, said that the unity call is a premise to promote goodwill among all devotees where the focus is on advocating lessons of strong spirituality that the festival advocates. - The Vibes, January 25, 2024.
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