The iconic Batu Caves is set to host its 135th Thaipusam festival with great grandeur and devotion. Batu Caves, along with Kallumalai Temple in Ipoh and Thanneermalai, Bala Thandayuthapani Temple in Penang, is renowned for its vibrant Thaipusam celebrations, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors each year. These temples serve as significant pilgrimage sites where devotees fulfill vows, carry kavadis, and seek blessings from Lord Murugan.
Tan Sri Dr. R. Nadarajah, Chairman of the Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam, announced that the festival is expected to draw an estimated 1.8 to 2 million devotees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the region.
The Thaipusam festival has been magnificently celebrated at Batu Caves since 1891. From its inception to the present day, the Devasthanam has diligently ensured all necessary arrangements for the comfort and convenience of the devotees visiting Batu Caves. This year, the festival will begin with the grand Silver Chariot procession, marking the start of the sacred celebrations.
Two days before Thaipusam, on February 9th, the Silver Chariot will depart from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur at approximately 9pm. It will reach Batu Caves the following evening. Following its arrival, the Thaipusam festival will officially commence at Batu Caves, as announced by Nadarajah.
With the increasing number of devotees and visitors each year, the temple administration has been diligently making extensive preparations to ensure their safety and well-being, said Tan Sri R. Nadarajah, Chairman of the Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in Kuala Lumpur.
“Arrangements have been made to accommodate up to two million people. This is due to the fact that many tourists and visitors from other countries have already booked their flight tickets to witness the Thaipusam celebrations here,” he stated.
He stated that pathways are being renovated to provide greater convenience for devotees fulfilling their vows at Batu Caves, while regular cleaning efforts are also being carried out along the nearby riverbank.
As this sacred occasion attracts people from diverse communities, Tan Sri Nadarajah urged the public to respect Indian culture and refrain from any activities that could undermine its dignity.
“Therefore, when the Silver Chariot procession begins, we must behave in an orderly and disciplined manner. A significant number of police officers from IPK Kuala Lumpur, Dang Wangi Police, and Gombak will be on duty to ensure security. I kindly urge everyone to avoid any actions that could lead to trouble or cause unnecessary difficulties for themselves,” he said.
He shared this information during a press conference held yesterday at Batu Caves in relation to the 2025 Thaipusam festival.
Source: Bernama
