A moderate but lively Thaipusam celebration

Thousands of Hindus thronged Batu Caves in Gombak, near here, in celebrating Thaipusam, the festival of thanksgiving and sacrifice, repenting of sins and humbling oneself.

Every inch of Batu Caves was packed with people since early this morning in a show of a moderate but lively festive atmosphere.The unique and colourful event has also attracted foreign tourists to witness the Hindu ritual up close.

Thaipusam is celebrated by Hindus worldwide during the month of 'Thai', which is the 10th month in the Tamil calendar, in dedication to Lord Murugan, also known as Lord Subramaniam.

Hindu devotees were seen carrying clay or brass pots filled with milk, which is regarded as holy, while they ascended the 272 steps up to the temple where they fulfilled their vows.

Some also took part in a procession starting from Jalan Petaling or Jalan Kuching to Batu Caves before they shaved their heads.

Due to the large crowd at Batu Caves, about 1,000 policemen have been stationed there since Tuesday to ensure public safety.

The authorities closed the road from the Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Jalan Tun H.S.Lee to facilitate the processions of the statues of Lord Murugan and his two wives Dewi Valli and Devi Theivanai to the Sri Subramaniyar Temple, Batu Caves, from 10pm yesterday to 4am today.

The operating hours of several public transport service providers including Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) and RapidKL have been extended to make it easy for visitors to get to the celebration's location.