Absence of kavadi leads to quiet prayers

M.Mariappan 32, is kept busy supplying young coconuts for devotees at Batu Caves on Saturday despite the prohibition on engaging in the coconut-breaking ritual for this year's celebrations

WITHOUT the usual fanfare and carnival-like environment of the Thaipusam festival at Batu Caves in Selangor, this year’s quieter atmosphere is allowing devotees to truly appreciate the meaning behind the celebration that falls tomorrow.

With scaled-down versions of the festival being allowed to take place, devotees say they feel safe while fulfilling their vows despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.