Colours, prayers, devotion fill Penang streets

 

In Penang, Thaipusam begins long before sunrise as the faithful take to the streets. - Bernama pic

IN PENANG, Thaipusam begins long before sunrise as the faithful take to the streets.

At 3am yesterday, the golden chariot carrying the sacred Vel of Lord Murugan and the silver chariot bearing his statue had completed their near 18-hour journey, heralding the first crescendo of a festival that would soon engulf the city.

The golden chariot was taken to the Arulmigu Sri Bala Thandayuthapani Temple at Waterfall Hilltop, and the silver chariot to the nearby Nattukkottai Chettiar Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga.

Their arrivals were greeted by chanting devotees, who pressed forward for a glimpse.

By dawn, Jalan Kebun Bunga was filled with devotees in vivid saffron and yellow attire, representing the Hindu colours of purity and devotion.

At the heart of the celebration were the kavadi-bearers — a striking and unforgettable sight — with their bodies pierced by gleaming hooks and spears, skin taut and slick with sweat.

Some carried towering structures adorned with peacock feathers, marigolds and images of Lord Murugan, swaying precariously to the beat of drums and music.

Bells chimed sharply as metal frames shifted, each sound marking both movement and endurance.

Despite the piercing, there was a sense of calm on their faces as they performed the sacred vow in a trance, with eyes half-closed and lips murmuring prayers.

Family members accompanied them, steadying the structures, offering water and chanting words of encouragement.

Tagging along were devotees carrying milk pots, known as the paal kudam, on their heads.

The milk in the pots sloshed gently as they walked, a symbol of purity amid the riot of colours and noise.

Compared with the intensity of carrying a kavadi, the journey of a paal kudam carrier appeared quieter, almost meditative — but their devotion was no less compared with others.

A Polish tourist who wanted to be known as Magda, 33, said she was captivated by the festive vibrance.

"It is fascinating to explore and celebrate. It is the first time I have witnessed devotees entering a trance and having their bodies pierced.

"It is difficult to explain what I feel, but I am not scared. There are many stories that can be captured in one photo."

Australian Jannien, 58, described the celebration as vibrant, loud and colourful.

"It is a little of everything. Here, you truly see patience being tested and honoured," he said.

For three days each year, the city is transformed by the festival, its streets becoming sacred paths for devotees and the celebration finding its rhythm.

Devotion is not only witnessed, but carried openly, etched in sweat, steel and unshakeable faith. - NST