Thaipusam festival kicks off with annual chariot procession
(AFP) The annual celebration of the Thaipusam festival began before dawn today with a chariot procession from Kuala Lumpur.
The silver chariot, which bore the images of Lord Muruga and his consorts, made its 20km journey from the Sri Maha Mariamman temple in the city to the Batu Caves hilltop shrine.
Several thousand devotees joined in the colourful procession. which was accompanied by loud music and prayers.
The heavily decorated chariot passed through many of the city's major roads.
Massive crowd expected
(AFP) The annual celebration of the Thaipusam festival began before dawn today with a chariot procession from Kuala Lumpur.
The silver chariot, which bore the images of Lord Muruga and his consorts, made its 20km journey from the Sri Maha Mariamman temple in the city to the Batu Caves hilltop shrine.
Several thousand devotees joined in the colourful procession. which was accompanied by loud music and prayers.
The heavily decorated chariot passed through many of the city's major roads.
Massive crowd expected
More than a million people are expected to converge at the caves during the three days around Thaipusam.
The festival is held to celebrate the birthday of Lord Muruga, youngest son of Lord Shiva.
Some devotees mark the festival by piercing their flesh with hooks or spikes as they climb up the cave's 272 steps to show penitence.
Are you sure you want to delete this comment?
This action cannot be undone.