Thaipusam 2025 is a few days away and it is said to hold more especially as in a remarkable display of compassion, 25 disabled devotees were carried up to Arulmigu Balathadayuthabani Temple Penang. Their wish to fulfil their rituals were completed with the help of Malaysia Tamilan Uthavum Karangkal (MTUK), a non governmental organization dedicated to help physically disabled people in fulfilling their spiritual commitments.
According to the MTUK founder Dr.A.Muraly, the organization has been conducting this kind of social services since 1999. But this was the first time they facilitated the journey for disabled devotees in Penang, having previously done this at Batu Caves.
A team of 125 volunteers from Kuala Lumpur and Penang worked together to carry wheelchairs and the devotees up the temple of 513 steps. Dr.Muraly has also shared his words on this initiative by saying he and his team are doing this to bring joy to the disabled community as they wish to go up the temple but are unable to do so.
This effort that involved volunteers received blessings from the devotees before they took turns carrying them up the stairs starting at 4.30pm. Upon reaching the temple, the devotees prayed and made their offerings before being carried back down at 5.30pm. “We could see how happy they were with some shedding tears as their long held wish to reach the temple for Thaipusam was finally fulfilled. That’s what makes us feel proud”.
Penang Hindu Endowments Board (LWHPP) chairman RSN Rayer and State Housing And Environment Committee Chairman Datuk Seri S Sundarajoo were also present in the temple.
Eswari, a 50 year old single mother who had been unable to visit the temple for 10 years due to paralysis from a road accident, shared her gratitude. “Before this, I would come to this temple every Thaipusam. But for the past 10 years, I haven’t been able to. Today I feel deeply moved because I could go up again”.
Volunteers also found this experience extremely rewarding. 19 year old first time volunteer M Kogulan expressed his joy at participating as a volunteer in this as he felt it was an honor to assist those in need and the elderly. This heartwarming initiative highlights the power of our community and the unwavering spirit of devotion, making this Thaipusam meaningful for those who never had the opportunity to fulfil their prayers.
Sources: Bernama
