Malaysia: Thaipusam 2010

During Thaipusam Eve on 29th Jan 2010, I stepped foot on Batu Caves where millions of devotees flock to this place to celebrate Thaipusam in KL. I have no regrets for making a trip there except for not finding out the location of the devotees having bath and getting their heads shaved beforehand. So, I only climbed up the 272 steps to the temple.

Guarding in front of Batu Caves, this large golden statue is Lord Murugan who is the son of god Shiva and his wife Parvati. His mom gave him a spear to vanquish the evil demon called Soorapadman.


It was raining in the evening but it did not stop the hardcore devotees from moving on.


This woman with a skewer piercing through her tongue was walking towards the stairs under the rain with the support from her friend by her side.


Carrying a milk pot on top of their heads, the devotees had to climb up the 272 steps to do the worshiping. It could be a huge challenge to the elderly or fat guys. I had seen some people panting and resting on the stairway. Some of them were chanting during the climb. Afterall, it's will power that matters.


This woman was staggering and spinning all the way in trance state. At a moment, she was about to pass out. The kind-hearted folks gave her water and the priest smeared the holy powder across her forehead. She was then calm and zen.


Another kavadi. Sometimes I wonder would there be holes on his cheeks after he removed the spear.


Trance


Kavadi. The devotee bearing a heavy-weight chariot made a few trance dance steps. After that, he sat down on a chair and his friends helped him to remove a few hooks at his back and the process continued.


This guy was rolling all the way. Red marks on his body could clearly be seen. His supportive family was constantly pouring oil or water onto his body.


Yea, I like this portrait the most. His mother was generous enough to let me take a photo of her boy.


More photo can be viewed from slides below.