Thaipusam stands as a monumental religious festival widely celebrated in Malaysia, marked by its grandeur and vibrant atmosphere. While rooted in the Indian culture, the festival transcends cultural boundaries, drawing people of various races and nationalities to partake in its festivities. Noteworthy temples, such as the Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves, the Kallumalai Temple in Ipoh, and the Balathandayuthapani (Thanneermalai) Temple in Penang, serve as focal points for the elaborate celebrations.
This year, the much-anticipated Thaipusam unfolded on the 25th of January, captivating a multitude of devotees who thronged to these revered temples. The air was charged with devotion as people from diverse backgrounds came together to honor this significant occasion.
This year’s Thaipusam festival held at the Kallumalai Sri Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh garnered significant attention, with a notable collection of RM569,261. The temple, renowned for its religious fervor and cultural significance, became a central hub for devotees and well-wishers who contributed generously to the festivities. R. Sitharaman, the President of the Ipoh Hindu Devasthanam Paripalana Sabha, announced this.
The Ipoh Hindu Devasthanam Paripalana Sabha, despite overcoming various setbacks, triumphantly concluded this year’s Thaipusam ceremony. Sitharaman conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the state government, with special mention to MR Sivanesan, a member of the state governing body. He also extended appreciation to the general public for their remarkable generosity throughout the festival.
A substantial portion of the funds was procured through the establishment of temporary shops within the temple premises, contributing to a total collection of RM 130,400. Sitharaman highlighted that these temporary shops played a pivotal role in generating financial support for the Thaipusam event. Additionally, he noted that funds were also raised through alternative means, such as hair offering, milk abishegam, and coconut consecration.
Seetharaman, alongside executive members of the Ipoh Hindu Devasthan Sabha, disclosed this information to the media in the presence of Sivanesan at the Perak State Government Secretariat. In a subsequent media statement, Sivanesan offered advice to the Ipoh Hindu Devasthanam, which has successfully overcome numerous challenges. He urged the organization to maintain proper administrative practices, emphasizing the importance of avoiding any potential issues.
Sivanesan expressed concern regarding the administration of temples within the Perak state, emphasizing the need for careful and organized management. He highlighted the troubling prospect of some temple administrations facing the imminent cancellation of their registration due to the failure to file accounting details with the registration department. Sivanesan stressed the importance of strict adherence to rules by every temple, urging them to ensure proper compliance with regulations.
He also conveyed that government funds will not be allocated to organizations that operate in contradiction to the principles of the Rukun Negara, with a particular emphasis on non-religious entities.
Additionally, a significant gesture of gratitude unfolded as a token of appreciation in the form of RM20,000 was bestowed upon the dedicated volunteers who played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Thaipusam festivities at the Kallumalai Sri Subramaniar Temple. Mr. Sivanesan handed over a mock cheque to the volunteers.
The resilience and success of the Ipoh Hindu Devasthanam Paripalana Sabha in organizing this year’s Thaipusam, despite setbacks, underscore the community’s dedication and resourcefulness. The substantial funds collected reflect not only financial support but also the communal spirit that thrives within these religious celebrations.
Source: Nambikkai Seithigal
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