Devotees admiring the new chariot for the Navarathiri festival outside Arulmigu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Queen Street. — Photos: CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
Penang Arulmigu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple’s new chariot for the Navarathiri festival is being unveiled today.
The 7.2m-high chariot bearing Goddess Durga will begin its processional journey from the temple in Queen Street, circle Little India and return to the temple.
Designed specifically for this nine-day festival, it replaces the temple’s 20-year-old wooden chariot which debuted in 2004.
Temple committee chairman R. Arasu Pillai said chariot production began in April last year and was completed last month.
“The old chariot was in very poor condition after decades of use.
“Repairing it repeatedly was costly, so we decided to commission a new one that could withstand the test of time,” he said.
It was made by temple chariot craftsmen in Karaikudi, India, and then shipped to Penang.
“What you will see during Navarathiri is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and devotion,” said Arasu.
“Nearly 90% of the chariot is made of teak wood while the embellishments and fittings are made of other types of wood.
“At 7.2m, it is taller than both our silver and golden chariots.
Pulled by bulls for a short distance for tradition’s sake, during the trial run, the new chariot will utilise a buggy for the actual procession tonight.
“The silver chariot stands at about 6.1m while the golden chariot is 5.5m high.
“The proportions were carefully considered to ensure it is both durable and elegant,” he added.
The new chariot was taken for a test ride at 6am on Sept 28 from the Hindu Endowments Board in Macalister Road, arriving at Penang’s oldest Hindu temple in Queen Street at 8.30pm.
“The height is ideal. Tall enough to be striking, yet manageable for the journey.
“To ensure safety and smooth movement, the chariot will be pulled by a buggy during the procession,” Arasu said.
The chariot is adorned with intricate carvings honouring deities and temple traditions.
“We looked at other great wooden chariots for reference, but ensured ours was rooted in the temple’s heritage and identity,” Arasu elaborated.
“Nothing was done without careful study.
“The RM300,000 cost was borne by a donor who prefers to be anonymous.
“The chariot carries the spirit of the festival and devotion of our people,” he added.
Based on available information, Arasu believes it is the tallest wooden processional chariot in Malaysia.
Tonight, it is set to become the focus of devotees and visitors to Little India.
The procession will start at 7.30pm from the temple in Queen Street.
