Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country and this multicultural and multilingual society makes the country a melting pot of various religious festivals. Thaipusam is just one of these festivals.
About Thaipusam festival
Hinduism is a minority religion in Malaysia. An estimated 9% of the total population of Malaysia are ethnic Indians, of whom almost 89% are practicing Hinduism. The festival is dedicated Lord Subramanian who answers prayers, and is also a day of penance. The people who make their vows here show gratitude by undergoing the sacrificial self-mortification during the ceremonial event. Indian settlers came to Malaya in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of these came to work as labourers on rubber plantations, while those who were English-educated occupied more professional positions. Some of the major Hindu festivals celebrated every year include Deepavali and Thaipusam.
Thaipusam festival images
Thaipusam Procession
In the early morning on the eve of the celebration,Thaipusam procession from one temple to another main temple (varies according to region) can be several miles long.TheThaipusam procession will depart Srri Mahamariaman Temple with Lord Muruga's idol heading the procession. Hundreds of devotees carrying their kavadi or whatever form of sacrificial act that they opted for will go on this 9.5-mile procession, which is an 8-hour journey.. Family members and supporters will be following the devotees during this procession, chanting prayers and offering encouragement.
Batu Caves is one of the most renowned Hinde shrines located outside of India which is dedicated to the Lord Murugan. . Batu Caves is crowded with people especially during Thaipusam festival.
It is said that the limestone which forms the Batu Caves are as old as 400 million years old. The statue of Lord Murugan stands proud at 42.7 meters right outside of Batu Caves.
It is said that the limestone which forms the Batu Caves are as old as 400 million years old. The statue of Lord Murugan stands proud at 42.7 meters right outside of Batu Caves.
Location of Thaipusam celebrations
Below you can see a map with the location of the Batu Caves in northern Kuala Lumpur.
You can simply scroll through the map with your mouse. Use the markers on the left to zoom in or out of the city map.
You can simply scroll through the map with your mouse. Use the markers on the left to zoom in or out of the city map.
