KUALA LUMPUR: Tens of thousands of devotees have filled the streets and steps of Batu Caves in the wee hours of the morning as Thaipusam celebrations begin.
As of 6.30am, congested crowds in the thousands could be seen covering every inch of the streets surrounding the entrance to Batu Caves up till the flyover connected to the Batu Caves KTM station.
Dozens of kavadi-bearing devotees could also be seen nearing the end of their ceremonious journey as they reach the gates of Batu Caves.
Lively urumi melam drum beats and music also rang out into the early morning air bringing about a festive atmosphere like no other.
Kavadi is an offering that is carried over the shoulder of devotees, symbolising a burden which is offered ceremonially.
On Thaipusam, devotees carry kavadi, which can include elaborately decorated structures, as well as the paal kudam, to fulfil a vow, to seek blessings or ask for forgiveness.
Foreign tourists could also be occasionally spotted among the crowd as they bore witness to the festivities.
Devotees cleansing themselves before fulfilling their Thaipusam vows at the Kallumal Arulmigu Subramania Temple in Gunung Cheroh. - Photo: Bernama
Devotees breaking coconuts along Penang's Jalan Datuk Keramat during the Thaipusam festival celebration. — Photo: ZHAFARAN NASIB / The Star.
The silver chariot making its way along Jalan Datuk Keramat during the Thaipusam celebration in George Town, Penang on Monday (Feb 10). — Photo: ZHAFARAN NASIB / The Star.
