JOHOR BARU: Devotees and visitors turned up to take part in the Thaipusam celebrations at Arulmigu Thendayuthapani Temple here, making it one of the most vibrant celebrations in recent years.
For lecturer S. Kanna, 44, Thaipusam is a deeply personal journey of faith that began long before reaching the temple.
He walked about 7km to the temple to fulfil his vow, carrying milk offerings in devotion to Lord Muruga.
“Thaipusam is a time for Hindus to worship Lord Muruga. Many devotees come with milk offerings and walk long distances to seek blessings,” he said.
Construction worker M. Thayalan, 34, said his prayers this year focused on well-being and relief from hardship.
“I came with milk and kavadi to seek blessings. This year, I prayed for my family to be healthy and free from difficulties,” he said.
The 109-year-old Arulmigu Thendayuthapani Temple located in Wadi Hana was filled with colour and activity as thousands of devotees gathered for the annual celebration, creating a harmonious and festive atmosphere.
Temple chairman N. Shanmugam Chettiar said devotees came not only from the city but also from other districts such as Kluang, Muar and Batu Pahat, as well as from Singapore.
“This year marks the 82nd Thaipusam celebration held here,” he said at the temple.
Shanmugam said free food and sweets were distributed to visitors, contributed by donors as a symbol of togetherness and community spirit during the festival.
Meanwhile, Johor unity, culture and heritage committee chairman K. Raven Kumar said the large turnout reflected the growing significance of Thaipusam not only as a religious event, but also as a celebration of unity.
He said cultural celebrations also played an important role in promoting tourism in the state.
“Many tourists stop by to observe the rituals and our traditions. This highlights the uniqueness of Malaysia and helps attract more visitors to Johor,” he said.
