GOMBAK: Against the backdrop of chanting devotees and final preparations for Thaipusam, the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Batu Caves bustled with extra energy as the Prime Minister paid a visit.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who arrived at about 2.30pm yesterday, was welcomed with garlands to the rhythms of the Urumi Melam, a Tamil folk drumming troupe.
A golden silk shawl draped around his neck, the Prime Minister strolled around the various booths and stalls set up along the walkway leading to the temple, stopping by to chat with the traders.
The Prime Minister’s presence drew the curiosity of devotees and the hordes of tourists who raised their handphones to capture the moment.
Many stepped forward to shake hands with Anwar, who sportingly obliged.
Anwar was earlier greeted by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, MIC president Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran and his deputy Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, along with members of the temple committee.
Over 2.5 million people are expected to visit Batu Caves for Thaipusam which falls tomorrow.
The festival commemorates the time Goddess Parvati presented her son, Lord Muruga, with a vel (divine spear) to defeat the demon Surapadman.
During this period, devotees perform acts of penance, bearing paal kudam (milk pot) or carrying kavadi – a structure borne on the shoulders typically decorated with flowers and peacock feathers – to fulfil vows or seek blessings.
Several roads and intersections around the federal capital and Batu Caves will also be closed.
In Kuala Lumpur, a total of 12 road intersections will be closed and traffic will be diverted in stages starting today until Tuesday to facilitate the chariot procession.
