As a preparation for Thaipusam, Chairman of Batu Caves Tan Sri Nadarajah has announced a towering 20ft Shakti Vel is set to be installed in the Riverside (Athangarai). This aims to provide another focal point for devotees to do their rituals and prayers. The installation of the Shakti Vel will take place on 2nd February between 10.00am to 12.00pm.
The Shakti Vel will serve as a sacred symbol for those taking Kavadi or engaging in other prayers that need to be done from the riverside. Devotees can now begin their rituals at the Shakti Vel before preceding their Kavadi offering. Once Thaipusam concludes, the Vel will be taken and kept in the temple, with plans to re-install at the riverside annually for Thaipusam.
Meanwhile, the escalator project at Batu Caves is expected to receive full approval soon. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amiruddin Shari has shared the project aims to enhance accessibility by constructing an escalator to the cave, making it easier for the elderly devotees.
The Bhoomi Puja (Groundbreaking ritual) has already been performed as a signal to start the project. According to Datuk N Sivakumar, Trustee of Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam, all the steps are taken to secure the required permissions.
Sources: Vanakkam Malaysia
