The grand celebration of the Thaipusam festival took place in Malaysia on Tuesday, attracting thousands of devotees. Hindu worshippers gathered at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, located within the famous Batu Caves, to offer prayers to Lord Murugan. Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
According to Hindu beliefs, Goddess Parvati bestowed divine power upon Lord Murugan on this day, instructing him to defeat the demon Tarakasura and his army. The festival is observed on the full moon day of the Tamil month ‘Thai.’
During Thaipusam, thousands of devotees undertake a pilgrimage to Batu Caves, carrying ‘kavadi’—an offering that signifies devotion and penance. Many carry pots filled with milk, while others perform extreme acts of devotion, such as piercing their cheeks, tongues, and backs with spears and hooks. These acts symbolize endurance, self-discipline, and spiritual resilience.
Thaipusam is the second largest Hindu festival in Malaysia, following Deepavali. The country acknowledges the significance of this festival by declaring it a public holiday. It is primarily celebrated by the Tamil community in Malaysia, reinforcing their cultural heritage and religious traditions.