GEORGETOWN, MALAYSIA, January 20, 2019 (Straits Times): For the third year running, two chariots took to the streets here to mark the commencement of the three-day state-level Thaipusam celebration. Over a thousand devotees thronged Little India here to witness the start of the annual procession, the highlight of the festivities. The Penang Hindu Endowment Board’s golden chariot kicked things off by departing from the Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Lebuh Queen. The Nattukottai Chettiar Temple Trustees’ silver chariot left about two hours later from Kovil Veedu in Lebuh Penang.
Both the chariots, bearing Lord Muruga, will pass through Lebuh Queen, Lebuh Chulia, Lebuh Victoria, before entering Jalan Magazine to Jalan Datuk Keramat, Jalan Utama and to Jalan Kebun Bunga. The golden chariot will be kept at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Hilltop) while the silver one will be at Nattukottai Chettiar Temple before it makes its way back on Tuesday. Thousands of devotees smashed coconuts and chanted “Vel vel” along the 5 mile route. Thaipusam commemorates the day when, according to Hindu belief, the Goddess Parvathi gave Lord Muruga a lance to slay demons. Tomorrow, hundreds of devotees will be bearing kavadis or carrying milk pots and walk thee miles to the temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga.
Short video at “source” above.