Missing the Thaipusam parades

(From left) N. Veerammal, 80, V. Mugilan, 31, V. Gokhulan, 19, V. Deepa, 24, and Joanne Nicole, 31, offering prayers for Thaipusam at their home in Gelugor as turmeric water is being poured over Lord Murugan’s vel by L. Vimalesvaran, 56, (right). – Photos: ZAINUDIN AHAD and LIM BENG TATT/The Star

FOR the first time in almost 150 years, Jalan Utama in George Town, Penang, was all quiet during Thaipusam.

There were no kavadi, breaking of coconuts, thaneer panthal (refreshment stalls), carrying of paal kudam (milk pots) or traffic jams along the road, which is usually crowded with devotees and tourists.