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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, February 6, 2004: More than a million people swarmed Batu Caves and numerous other Hindu temples nationwide to do penance and seek blessings from Lord Murugan during Thaipusam yesterday. Among the worshippers who climbed the temple’s 272 steps to offer prayers amidst shouts of “Vel! Vel!” were many local and foreign tourists who came to witness the event renowned for its colorful kavadis carried by devotees. Joining in the festivities were many government dignitaries. Works Minister Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu said even though Thaipusam was a public holiday in only five states, worshippers in other states also took time off for the celebrations. Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr. Mohd Khir Toyo said in his speech that Malaysians were tolerant of each other’s beliefs. “Many countries look at this diversity as a weakness, but it is what gives us strength to bring the country to greater heights,” he said. In Penang, thousands of Hindu devotees lined the Waterfall Road route leading to the hilltop temple to witness the colorful kavadis passing by yesterday. All along the route leading to the temples numerous refreshment stalls added color to the three-day festival which started on Wednesday. Some kavadi bearers had their bodies pierced with hooks and spears. They danced through the crowd as they trekked their way to the temple to fulfill vows to Lord Muruga. Others devotees carried milk pots on their heads, and many of them had yellow sandalwood paste on their heads shaven for the occasion. There were several kavadis bearing the images of Hanuman and Lord Muruga.

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