Feeling ‘lost’ amid missing crowd at Batu Caves on Thaipusam

 

Revathi Subramaniam, a 25-year-old student from Nilai, says she prayed that this situation with the tight SOPs for Thaipusam won’t be repeated next year.

GOMBAK: The vast temple grounds that was once filled with people from all walks of life, numerous stalls, and lively devotional music but now having only a small number of people, paints a heartbreaking sight to many devotees at Batu Caves.

Revathi Subramaniam, who came with her family, said that she was really shocked the moment she arrived at the entrance.

“I was wondering ‘Where are the people?’

“This is not Batu Caves, especially not on Thaipusam,” the 25-year-old student from Nilai said.

She shared her disappointment in not being able to carry the “paal kudam” (milk offering) alongside the chariot procession for yet another year.

“We couldn’t do what we had hoped to do because we have to undergo all kinds of procedures.

“I also feel it’s not very ‘happening’ this year compared with previous years. The environment is totally different with no kavadis being allowed, among other things,” she told FMT.

Revathi said the abnormal “quietness” from the lack of people made her feel a little uncomfortable.

“For our safety, we have to follow and adhere to all the SOPs. I understand that we have to abide by them.

“I prayed that this won’t continue next year, that this won’t last forever. I’m hoping that next year, the celebration will be back to normal,” she said.

Gunalan Mahalingam hopes to be able to bring his family along next year.

Sharing a similar sentiment, Kuala Lumpur technician Gunalan Mahalingam said although he is happy that he finally managed to complete his vow, this year’s celebration does feel different than before.

“Previously, there were a lot of people, with kavadi, so it was much nicer. Now, there’s only the paal kudam.“

“It’s still lively but definitely not like previous Thaipusam celebrations,” the 28-year-old told FMT, adding that he hopes to be able to bring his family along next year.

Ramachandran Velayutham says he has been fulfilling his vows at Batu Caves for the past 27 years.

Meanwhile, Ramachandran Velayutham, 37, who has been fulfilling his vows at Batu Caves for the past 27 years, feels that the kavadi represents Thaipusam.

“Just like every year, I came here to do my offering and the only thing missing is the kavadi.

“And there is no crowd. I still prefer the real feeling of Thaipusam at Batu Caves. I miss that,” the senior IT specialist from Klang said.

Ramachandran came with his friends in the morning and they left immediately after fulfilling their vows as there was nothing for them to see or do.

“I feel the SOPs are very tight, there are no shops. Also, I’m missing the sounds of the drums and all,” he told FMT. - FMT