More than 300 students, parents and devotees gathered at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, Waterfall, Penang for the Dharma Kalvi Yagam 2026. The programme is dedicated to seeking divine blessings for students preparing for major public examinations, which are Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM).
The programme aimed to encourage students to approach their examinations with confidence, positive thinking and determination while seeking spiritual guidance for their academic journey.

The event was organised by Malaysia Hindhu Dharma Mamandram Penang Arulnilayam and Persatuan Kebudayaan India, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), with support from the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) and Arulmigu Shree Balathandayuthapani Hilltop Temple, Penang.
Spiritual Prayers for Students’ Academic Success
The programme featured the Sri Vidya Medha Saraswathy Maha Yagam, Abhishegam and Maha Pooja, conducted by temple Gurukkal Sivasri Manikandan.
Students, parents and devotees also participated in the Kandha Sashti Kavasam Parayanam and bhajan sessions, seeking divine protection, wisdom and guidance for students as they prepare for their examinations.

The prayers were dedicated to Goddess Saraswathy, who is associated with knowledge and learning, and Lord Murugan, seeking their blessings to help students overcome challenges and achieve academic excellence.
The gathering also provided an opportunity for students and their families to come together in a supportive spiritual environment as they prepare for an important stage in their education.
Penang Hindu Endowments Board Representatives Attend Programme
The programme was attended by Penang Hindu Endowments Board chairman YB RSN Rayer and its deputy chairman, YB Senator Dr Lingeshwaran. Their presence highlighted the community’s support for initiatives that combine education, spirituality and student well-being.

Following the prayers, attendees were served a traditional vegetarian banana leaf lunch, encouraging fellowship and strengthening bonds among students, parents, devotees and members of the organising teams.
Community Support Makes Programme Possible
Malaysia Hindhu Dharma Mamandram Penang expressed its appreciation to temple chairman Mr Kumarathiruviyam for his continued support and contributions, as well as the temple committee and organising team led by Dr Gobinath, chairman of the MHDM Penang Branch Education Bureau, and Mdm Thelagavathy.
The organisation also thanked PHEB for its continued support and contribution towards making the programme a success.

Special appreciation was extended to Sri Muniswarar Temple, Jalan Baru, Perai, for sponsoring the shawls presented to participating students as a blessing. The organisation also acknowledged the continued support of its adviser, Dato Dr R. Gunasegaran Pillai.
Through initiatives such as the Dharma Kalvi Yagam, the organisers hope to strengthen the connection between education, spirituality and community service while encouraging students to pursue their academic goals with confidence.
The programme concluded with prayers for students to receive the blessings of Goddess Saraswathy and Lord Murugan as they prepare for their examinations, with hopes for wisdom, courage and success in their academic endeavours.
Source: Malaysia Hindu Dharma Maamandram Penang Facebook

