THAIPUSAM marks the day when, according to Hindu belief, the goddess Parvathi bestowed Lord Muruga with a 'vel' (spear) to vanquish demons.
Thaipusam celebrations in Malaysia are vibrant, with key locations including Batu Caves-Selangor, Georgetown, Ipoh, Sungai Petani, Kuching, and Johor Baru.
The Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves here was a sea of people, with thousands of devotees carrying 'kavadi' and 'paal kudam' (milk offerings) to pay homage to Lord Muruga.
In Penang, the three-day state-level Thaipusam celebrations kicked off with a dynamic and colourful start today with the dual chariot procession, a hallmark of Thaipusam in the state.
There will be hundreds of devotees, kavadi bearers, and milk pot carriers making their way to the Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Lebuh Queen to fulfill their vows.
Thousands of devotees, many dressed in their finest and most colourful saris, or wearing yellow, said to be the lord's favourite colour, followed the chariots by foot.
Many also offered platters of fruits.