Oil lamps, lit by hundreds of devotees, symbolise hope and guidance at the Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Temple in Shah Alam. — Photos: YAP CHEE HONG and GLENN GUAN/The Star
Prayers, food and arts among popular Tamil New Year activities
TAMIL New Year, or Puthandu, observed on the first day of the month of Chithirai, marked the beginning of the year for the community.
The day begun with families visiting Hindu temples praying for prosperity, happiness and renewal.
Images of this festivity, taken by The Star photographers, throughout the Klang Valley, captured colourful scenes of the community celebrating by doing things synonymous with south Indian culture.
The atmosphere inside these temples were filled with mantras, or chants, recited by priests to the accompaniment of temple bells.
In Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, the merriment continued outside the temples with village games, traditional dances and the serving of food.
An array of sumptuous dishes such as sambar (dhal curry), rasam (savoury soup), and payasam (sweet porridge) were served to guests, complemented by a variety of spicy and tangy side dishes that were a feast for the senses.
A group of people also performed silambam, a traditional martial art which originated from Tamil Nadu, India.
Cultural games played a significant role in the festivities, with children and adults alike engaging in traditional games that fostered community spirit and joy.
These entertaining games were also a reminder of the Tamil community’s rich cultural heritage passed down through generations and across the seas.
Another charming tradition of Puthandu is the drawing of kolam, a decoration of intricate and symbolic patterns created with colourful rice flour placed at the entrance of homes.
These beautiful designs are thought to bring good luck and are a testament to the importance Tamils place on artistic expression.
Devotees at the Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Temple receiving holy water from a priest.
A devotee feeding pigeons on Puthandu as the act is believed to bring prosperity and peace to one’s home.
Food served on banana leaves is considered sacred and a must at auspicious functions like weddings, festivities and religious events.
Youths performing silambam at a Puthandu event in Brickfields.
The traditional dance of Bharatanatyam was among well-loved art forms staged at temples during the Puthandu celebration.
