Hindu devotees throughout the country celebrated Thaipusam with religious ceremonies in a merry environment including at the Sri Subramaniyar Swamy Temple at the Batu Caves, here today.

They assembled at the temple located in a hilly area for prayers and to perform various religious rituals.

Also present to witness the event at the religious centre which was crowded were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, MIC president who is also the Health Minister, Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam and Deputy Education Minister Datuk P. Kamalanathan.

A kavadi procession was also among the main attractions at the ceremony today with some visitors coming with their heads shaved bald and barefooted.

Shortly after arrival, Ahmad Zahid who was wearing an ivory white kurta was garlanded and a gold-coloured sash was placed on his shoulder by the chairman of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple committee, Tan Sri R. Nadarajah.

This was a traditional form of welcoming special guests during the ceremony.

Ahmad Zahid also delivered a speech at the ceremony and interacted with and waved to the large crowd of visitors who cheered and clapped.

Thaipusam is celebrated during the Tamil full moon called 'Thai' in memory of the birthday of Lord Murugan, who was the youngest son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parwati.

It is also to remember the incident when Murugan received a sacred lance from his mother to eliminate the evil power named Soorapadman and to give back prosperity to the people.

Dr Subramaniam in his speech said the celebration showed the uniqueness of the country which was rich in various festivals with the observation of the various religions.

"Despite the presence of a handful of extremists in the country, we are united in opposing this group to ensure that this country is free from any threat that could jeopardise national harmony," he added.