KUALA LUMPUR: Tens of thousands of devotees have thronged Batu Caves since early Saturday (Feb 8) to celebrate Thaipusam. Rituals were performed as acts of penance and to offer thanks to Lord Muruga, as well as to fulfil vows and to repent for past sins. Thaipusam marks the birth of Lord Muruga, the youngest son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Each year, thousands of devotees climb up Batu Caves' 272 steps to commemorate the birthday of Lord Muruga, who was given a "vel" (spear) by the Goddess Parvati to vanquish the evil Soorapadman. Despite the recent coronavirus outbreak, there were not many spotted donning face masks except for a small number of locals and tourists.

Source: The Star February 08, 2020 03:51 UTC