By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 25: Despite a scaled-down celebration due to temple construction limitations, the Thaipusam procession at Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Rock Road witnessed Indian devotees expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, asking for forgiveness, and fulfilling vows to Lord Murugan.
Devotees clad in yellow with foreheads marked with holy ash carried the sacred “kavadi,” adorned with peacock feathers and bearing milk pots on their heads, chanting ‘Vel Vel.’
Thaipusam, observed on this full moon day (Jan 25), is a Hindu festival venerating Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War and Victory.
According to Hindu belief, the festival commemorates the occasion when Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, presented a spear to Lord Murugan to vanquish demons. The spear, known as ‘vel’, is a symbolic divine weapon with the power to vanquish evil.
The Kavadi, an integral part of Thaipusam, represents a ceremonial offering carried over the shoulder, symbolising the devotees’ willingness to bear burdens.
Ranging from simple adornments to intricate structures, Kavadis are often attached to the body with hooks and skewers. Devotees believe that by undertaking these physical sacrifices, they can purify themselves, fulfill vows, and show their devotion to the deity.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, who attended the ceremony, emphasised the significance of unity among Sarawakians, a stable government, and strong leadership in fostering a harmonious celebration of diverse festivals within the community.
“Unity knows no boundaries and and it is the collective effort of every Sarawakian that makes our State unique.
“With diverse faiths and races in Sarawak, we take pride in upholding religious respect that allows all races to blend seamlessly and celebrate all festivals together such as the upcoming Chinese New Year where the tradition of visiting one another will continue,” he said.
Wee urged all communities, especially the younger generation, to actively participate in various celebrations and festivals of different races to enhance understanding as well as preserving each other’s cultures and traditions.
“Sharing our practices fosters better understanding, and division should not find a place in Sarawak,” he added.
Recognising the significant contributions of the Indian community, despite its relatively small population, Wee commended their impact on Sarawak’s development.
Meanwhile, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Association Kuching president Shankar Ram Asnani pointed out that the temple’s construction is expected to be completed by August this year.
He expressed gratitude to the Sarawak government, particularly Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, for allocating substantial funding to the temple’s construction.
“He (Premier) is an exemplary Muslim leader who subscribes to the principles of the Medina Charter and promoting fairness among all races.
“In turn, what we must do is to show utmost loyalty to his administration. Thank you, Sarawak government,” he said.
Shankar also extended his thanks to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian as well as Wee who has played a significant role in approving the temple building plan. — DayakDaily
