Celebrated on the 10th month of the Hindu calendar, Thaipusam is a day of penance and thanksgiving for Hindus. It is a fascinating Hindu festival that includes a parade of purification and cleansing rituals and also a day to repent by fulfilling vows. The festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Muruga and Hindus believe that sins can be cleansed during Thaipusam.

This year, a colourful Thaneer Panthal was set up in front of Penang Times Square for the procession of Lord Muruga. On the eve of Thaipusam, Ivorycares’ volunteers helped in serving food for about 1,200 devotees. The delicious vegetarian food were tomato rice, vegetable dalcha, mango pacadi and cabbage kootu. The serving of food to devotees is organized for the 4th consecutive time as part of Ivory’s social obligation to the community.

Devotees and Ivory staffs smashed about 1,500 coconuts during the coconut breaking ritual just before ushering the silver chariot of Lord Muruga. Project Director, Mr Ron Loh and other staffs handed over tivarthanaitambalam (silver trays laden with garlands and fruits) to the volunteers on the chariot as offerings to the Lord to fulfill their wishes and vows.