Tamils worship at Malaysia's Batu Caves on Thaipusam

Kyrgyzstan News.Net
Sunday 8th February, 2009 (IANS)

Tens of thousands of devotees braved a scorching sun to pay obeisance to Hindu deity Lord Murugan and to received his blessings on Thaipusam at Batu Caves near here.

People began thronging the place since Saturday, Star Online said.

More than 1.2 million devotees and tourists are expected to visit Batu Caves and the Murugan temple here this year.

Large crowds accompanied thousands of devotees carrying colourful kavadi (ornate frames), pal kodam (milk pots) and pulling chariots as acts of penance and to give thanks to Lord Murugan.

The cave is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India, dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is the focal point of Hindu festival of Thaipusam in Malaysia.

Those running souvenir stalls and cafes were doing a brisk business, as were barbers since many devotees shave their heads.

Non-governmental organisations were running blood and organ donation drives.

Tamil Hindus form a bulk of the two million population of ethnic Indians in Malaysia.

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