Shrine shine: The spring cleaning of Penang Hilltop Temple for Deepavali and Skanda Sashti Festival. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Festive spring cleaning is underway at the Arulmigu Sri Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Hilltop Temple ahead of Deepavali and the Skanda Sashti Festival next week.
Temple committee chairman K. Kumarathiraviam said the temple at Jalan Kebun Bunga will be the focal point for Deepavali on Monday and the Sasthi festival from Oct 22 to 27.
“Devotees from other states and even tourists are expected to visit the temple, especially since there will be holidays extending until Wednesday.
“Special prayers will be conducted at the temple on the morning of Deepavali,” he said.
Skanda Sashti is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, observed during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
It commemorates Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Surapadman, symbolising the eternal triumph of good over evil.
Devotees believe that praying to Lord Murugan during this period brings courage, spiritual strength and protection.
Malaysia Hindu Dharma Mamandram president Rishikumar Vadivelu said Penang temples, such as the Waterfall Hilltop Temple and the Sree Veera Hanuman Temple, will see increasing crowds as Deepavali nears.
He said volunteers will clean temple grounds, light rows of lamps and distribute food to the needy, embodying the spirit of the season.
“Lighting a lamp is not just a ritual. It reminds us to remove the darkness within ourselves – jealousy, anger and ego.
“Deepavali has evolved beyond religious observance. It is a time for reflection, charity and strengthening family bonds,” he said.
Rishikumar said the prominence of Deepavali in Malaysia could be traced back to the colonial era, when British planters designated only one Hindu holiday for estate workers.
Deepavali was chosen for its inclusive and unifying message.
“Deepavali in Malaysia transcends religion. It symbolises the Indian community’s place within a multi-ethnic society.
“The festival’s themes of light and renewal go beyond temple grounds, reflected in community outreach, charity drives and open houses,” he said.
In many estates and urban neighbourhoods, he said the celebration has evolved from simple rows of oil lamps to large-scale street decorations, charity fairs and school events.
“The tradition of sharing food and inviting friends of all faiths has become a unique Malaysian expression of the festival,” he said.
Rishikumar said that younger Malaysian Indians are blending traditional practices with modern lifestyles – pairing traditional attire with contemporary fashion and sharing celebrations on social media.
Yet, core rituals remain deeply rooted, he said, adding that for many families, the oil bath before sunrise on Deepavali morning continues to be a cherished act of spiritual cleansing and gratitude.
He also highlighted the festival’s educational role, especially for non-Hindus.
Schools organise special assemblies, and companies host festive events, allowing younger Malaysians to appreciate the country’s religious and cultural diversity.
“It has truly become a Malaysian festival in spirit – not just a Hindu one,” he said.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam president Ganesan Thangavellu said Deepavali has grown into one of Malaysia’s most widely embraced national festivals, celebrated with open houses, public holidays and a unifying message.
“The essence of Deepavali is the victory of good over evil, embodied in deepa oli (holy light).
“It symbolises the triumph of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura – a story that resonates across cultures,” he said, adding that over the years, the context of Deepavali in Malaysia has evolved, becoming a symbol of unity among different races.
