A striking kavadi with image of Hindu deity Lord Muruga.
Another striking kavadi with similar image of Hindu deity Lord Muruga.
A devotee fulfills his vow by carrying the kavadi. Kavadi bearers start fasting some days (or weeks or even months depending on individual) before Thaipusam. During the abstinence period they live on vegetarian food with no meat, no alcoholic drinks, no intoxicants (coffee & tea), no evil thoughts and no sex.
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Some devotees go for elaborate decorations for their colourful and striking kavadis.
Colourful and striking kavadis in a procession.
Hooks that are pierced into the back with ropes attached to them and a friend pull the other end of the ropes.
A devotee with small hooks attached to cigars and pierced to his skin.
Small hooks attached to limes and pierced to their skins.
Amazing to see devotees with the skewers and kavadis.
RELA personnel on duty for crowd control.
Chants of “vel vel” and the rhythm of traditional drums followed the kavadi bearers.
The guys who accompanied the kavadi bearers dance to the music.
A beautifully decorated kavadi.
A devotee fulfills her vow by carrying a mini kavadi on her shoulder.
Two St John Ambulance staff on duty at the festival.
There are many ways to thank Lord Muruga such as shaving the head bald for this child.
Deep in trance, this devotee with his feet on a plank of sharp pointed nails blessing those who walked up to him.
A kavadi with an image of Lord Ganesh, the Hindu Elephant God.
A kavadi made of polystyrene and plywood shaped like a lotus flower with an image of a Hindu deity.
The beautiful limestone formations as seen from inside the heart of Batu Caves high above.
A view of the foot of Batu Caves as seen from the top of the 272 steps.
A makeshift refreshment stall setup along the route providing free drinks to devotees and tourists to quench their thirsts. The cups of mineral water are given free courtesy of the Pakatan Rakyat Selangor state government.
Blood donation jointly organized by Sai Baba Centre and the National Blood Bank.
Blood pressure test available free for everyone. The service is offered by Masterskill University College of Health Sciences based in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
The Red Crescent team on duty at the festival.
Police personnel making their rounds to ensure safety and public order.
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