KUALA LUMPUR: Temples across the country glowed with lamps and chants early Monday morning (Oct 20) as Hindus nationwide ushered in Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, with prayers, rituals and gatherings that celebrated faith, family and the triumph of good over evil.
The joyous occasion was marked by homes adorned with colourful kolams and flickering oil lamps, as Malaysians of all backgrounds joined in the festive cheer, a reflection of the nation’s unity in diversity.
Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves saw thousands of devotees gathering as early as 6am to perform prayers, bringing offerings of fruits and flowers to the deities in a gesture of thanksgiving.
For devotee K. Monissha, 26, from Subang Jaya, this year’s Deepavali holds special meaning as it is her first celebration with her husband after getting married last December.
Photo: Bernama
“I usually come to this temple during Thaipusam, but this year we chose to come for Deepavali as well because the atmosphere is livelier, and more family members can join. This is my first Deepavali as a wife,” she said, accompanied by 10 family members.
Monissha, a procurement executive, said that according to Indian tradition, the first Deepavali after marriage is celebrated at the bride’s family home, complete with festive dishes, the giving of saris and cash gifts to family members.
Another devotee, M. Mathesha, 26, a human resource executive from Selayang, expressed her gratitude for being able to celebrate Deepavali with all her siblings this year after several years of being tied down by work commitments.
“This year, all five of us siblings managed to gather. After prayers, we’ll have a meal together. Last night we cooked mutton curry, chicken sambal and fried rice. I hope this Deepavali brings blessings and strengthens our family bond,” she said.
Photo: Bernama
Besides local Hindu devotees, foreign tourists also took the opportunity to witness the festive atmosphere at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, which was packed with thousands of worshippers from early morning.
Indonesian tourist Natasya Praskila, 22, from Medan, said this was her first time experiencing the Festival of Lights in Malaysia. She chose Batu Caves after discovering it online, and was amazed by the colourful stalls selling sweets, flowers and cultural performances. – Bernama
