Colour, Prayer and Sacrifice – Thaipusam at Gunung Cheroh Captivates Visitors
By Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH, Feb 1 — A vibrant sea of colour, the rhythmic beat of devotional music and crowds dressed in traditional attire lit up the Thaipusam celebration at Sri Subramaniar Temple in Gunung Cheroh here, drawing thousands of Hindu devotees since last night.
The chariot procession, which began at Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Sungai Pari, Buntong, saw devotees walking together in a deeply spiritual atmosphere of repentance and gratitude as they fulfilled their vows.
Some were seen carrying paal kudam — pots filled with milk — while others bore kavadis on their shoulders as symbols of sacrifice and sincerity.
Along the procession route, rows of stalls selling traditional food, drinks and religious items turned the surrounding area into a lively cultural festival.
The celebration also caught the attention of foreign tourists, many of whom took the opportunity to record photos and videos to witness the uniqueness of the festival firsthand. Many expressed excitement at seeing Malaysia’s cultural diversity and the harmony of its multiracial society.
Sri Subramaniar Temple, which is over 100 years old and among the oldest temples in Perak, is expected to receive more than 500,000 Hindu devotees throughout the four-day celebration.
Meanwhile, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, in a Facebook post, extended Thaipusam greetings to Hindu devotees in the state.
He expressed hope that the celebration would serve as an opportunity to strengthen family ties and friendships, while bringing well-being and happiness to those observing the festival.
Thaipusam is not only an important religious occasion for Hindus, but also highlights the beauty of Malaysia’s cultural heritage, rich in diverse traditions.
