Thaipusam Celebrations in Penang: A Festival of Faith and Community
Preparations Underway for Thaipusam Celebrations
Ahead of the Thaipusam celebrations tomorrow, the route leading to the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga, George Town, is decorated with lively ‘Thaneer Panthal’ (stalls that provide free food and drinks for devotees). This year, 169 Thaneer Panthal have been set up, beautifully decorated and offering free vegetarian food and drinks to devotees, with participation from various agencies and private companies, including local universities.
Penang State Leadership Council Contributes to Food Distribution
The Penang State Leadership Council (MPN) of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) has also contributed to the celebrations by distributing 10,000 free meals to devotees and visitors attending the Thaipusam celebrations. MPN PKR Penang deputy chairman, A. Kumaresan, said that 50 party members from various ethnic backgrounds are volunteering for the preparations, including decorating, cooking, and distributing food.
Food Distribution Schedule
"We set up refreshment booths every year, and this year, we have prepared 10,000 food packages, which have been made over the past two days, starting today and continuing until tomorrow," Kumaresan said. "The food distribution is carried out in three sessions, which include breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea, but tomorrow it will continue until dinner. We began cooking yesterday to distribute food to devotees and visitors who are present," he added.
Walkabout with Penang Chief Minister
Earlier, Kumaresan, who is also the Batu Uban assemblyman along with the Penang state leadership, participated in a walkabout with Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow to inspect the final preparations for Thaipusam and visit the Thaneer Panthal at Jalan Utama today.
Penang Hindu Endowment Board Preparations
Meanwhile, Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) chairman, RSN Rayer said preparations had begun two weeks ago, with all the ‘panthals’ decorated to attract the public, especially tourists. "The celebration so far has been very lively, and we expect 1.5 million devotees and tourists to flood Penang for Thaipusam. Therefore, I urge all visitors to respect the customs of Thaipusam to avoid any untoward incidents. We also request that no one consume alcohol, and for women not to wear jewellery, while adhering to police instructions," he said.
Conclusion
Thaipusam is a significant celebration in Penang, and the state leadership and various organizations are working together to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all devotees and visitors. The vibrant celebration is a testament to the state’s commitment to openness and inclusivity, attracting tourists and devotees from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Thaipusam?
A: Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the event when Lord Murugan received a sacred spear from his mother, Goddess Parvati, to destroy the evil forces of Soorapadman and restore prosperity and well-being to humanity.
Q: Where is the main Thaipusam celebration held in Penang?
A: The main Thaipusam celebration is held at the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga, George Town.
Q: How many Thaneer Panthal have been set up this year?
A: 169 Thaneer Panthal have been set up this year, offering free vegetarian food and drinks to devotees.