BY: VASANTHA KUMAR

There is no denying that the celebration of the Hindu festival of Thaipusam has become a major event on the annual calendar for local pilgrims and for hordes of other pilgrims from different countries.

It is a major tourist attraction and this year Hindu temples were packed with massive crowds and there were many who were curious about the activities and rituals such as the smashing of coconuts and the carrying of ‘kavadi.’

The rituals for penance were fascinating and this is why Malaysians of all walks of life and different faiths came together in complete understanding and reverence to pay respect to Hindu devotees although those of different faiths rarely participated in the rituals.

This year Thaipusam was an eyeopener as it coincided with the tail end of Chinese New year and quite auspiciously Chap Goh Meh and Thaipusam were celebrated at certain Hindu temples with the inclusiveness of Chinese lion dances.

This was the highlight of the celebrations as it signified a unifying time for the major races and religions in Malaysia as it was an open show of solidarity, respect and tolerance for Malaysians of different faiths to come together.

This is why it is imperative that Thaipusam be declared a national holiday in Malaysia for the people to enjoy and appreciate as it is creating the bonds of unity and fellowship among the rakyat.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher