iPlay @ Thaipusam, Penang

Thaipusam is an annual Hindu festival held during the full moon, in the tenth month of the Hindu calendar. Thaipusam fell on the 3^rdof Feb this year. Devotees gave thanks to Lord Murugan, son of Shiva on Thaipusam.

Thaipusam was grandly celebrated in Malaysia,although the Indian community in Malaysia is the smallest of the three main races; it comprises about 8% of the population. Thaipusam is not only celebrated by the Indian community but all Malaysians, including me!

A team of devotees walked for 100km bare foot from Alor Setar to Penang to celebrate the Thaipusam. *salute*.I took a flight to Penang to join in this colourful celebration.

There are a few groups of Indians that were making merry playing music and singing traditional songs. Stalls were set up along the streets to provide refreshments to the devotees. There were a lot of activities while waiting for Lord Murugan to pass by.  

Other than Malaysians, tourists celebrated Thaipusam by wearing Saris. 

Stall that is nicely decorated with flowers by Intel.

Happy feet.

Praying ceremony while Lord Muruganis walking here.

Forehead marking for the public. It means blessings. 

“Kavadi” carry containers containing milk as an offering to Lord Murugan. 

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Millions of old coconuts are ready to be smashed on the streets before Lord Muruganpasses by as a form of thanksgiving.  It’s also symbolises the breaking of one’s ego to reveal the purity inside. 

Around 11pm, Lord Murugan finally arrives at the waterfall garden on a 120 year old chariot, pulled by 2 holy cows.

I make a wish, silently.