Lecturer J. Ragunathan (right) from Kulim, Kedah, with his family after the head shaving ritual at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple.
THERE are colourful signs all over Little India in Penang that Thaipusam is just around the corner.
Shops are packed with all the essentials for the festival including pal kudam (milk pots) of various sizes, poo koodai (flower baskets) and even ready-made kavadi and silver Vels.
T. Vickneswaran, 26, showing the silver Vels that are used to pierce ones tongue during Thaipusam as he carries a ready-made kavadi at a popular sundry shop in Little India, George Town, Penang. (January 18,2024) —ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star.
Yellow attire is also sold as the colour is considered auspicious and the favourite of Lord Murugan.
On Thaipusam day, devotees will carry kavadi and the milk pots to Nattukotai Chettiar Temple and Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga to fulfil their vows and pay homage to Lord Murugan.
Rows of thaneer panthal (refreshment stalls) being set up along Jalan Kebun Bunga in anticipation of the large crowds along the chariot route. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT and ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
Many will be piercing their tongues with the silver Vel on that day as an act of devotion.
Some devotees also shave their head as an act of sacrifice.
S. Letchmee arranging a display of milk pots at her sundry shop in Little India in George Town, Penang.
Meanwhile, expect to see thousands of coconuts smashed along the chariot routes.
Kavadi maker V. Aramugam (middle) adding the finishing touches to a kavadi, watched by volunteers C. Siva (right) and K. Murugan at Taman Dhoby Ghaut.
All the festive items have been very much in demand as the Thaipusam celebration this year is expected to be a grand affair just like in pre-pandemic times.
Thaipusam will be celebrated tomorrow with the chariot processions held today and the day after the festival.
A worker showing yellow garments on sale for Thaipusam.
It is an important festival for Tamil Hindus and is celebrated on the first full moon in the Tamil month of Thai to commemorate the victory of Lord Murugan who defeated the demon Soorapadman with a Vel given by his mother Goddess Parvati.
