PENANG, MALAYSIA, January 21, 2024 (The Malaysian Insight): Hindu Endowment Board chairman R.S.N. Rayer announced that one million Hindu devotees are expected to throng Penang from January 24 to 26 to celebrate the Thaipusam festival. He added that this year will be different, as for the first time, both the gold and silver chariots will feature in the procession to the temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga, signifying unity. “This time, we are calling the festival the Thaipusam of Unity because both chariots will move almost together, that is about .62 miles apart. We hope the procession will reach the temple by 11pm.

He said 150 thaneer panthal (refreshment stalls) or free food and drink distribution tents were also set up along the procession route. Rayer said the golden chariot will move from the temple in Lebuh Queen at 5.30am on January 24 , followed by the silver chariot an hour later from the temple in Lebuh Penang before both chariots return to their respective temples on January 26. Meanwhile, Rayer said Thaipusam is not only celebrated by Hindus but is also the focus of foreign tourists. Additionally, he suggested the use of face masks especially for those at high risk such as the elderly, and encouraged them to come early to perform the religious rituals.

https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/s/480675

Post Views: 353