Penang all set for Thaipusam celebrations

GEORGE TOWN: Preparations are gearing up for the annual Thaipusam celebration here as thousands of devotees are expected to throng the Waterfall hilltop temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga to pay homage to Lord Muruga in a three-day celebration beginning tomorrow.
The 124-year-old silver chariot bearing the statue of Lord Muruga is scheduled to start off its journey from Kovil Veedu (temple house) in Lebuh Penang to hilltop temple tomorrow.
The golden chariot carrying the vel (spear of Lord Muruga) which was introduced by Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) last year will make its way to hilltop temple from Sri Maha Mariamman temple in Lebuh Queen.
Buoyed by the large turnout comprising of locals and tourists in previous years, Thaipusam is again set to attract many visitors to the island.
theSun spoke to some workers who were preparing the refreshment stalls (thaneer phantal) and decorations along Jalan Utama.
One of them was V. Anbalagan, 41, who related that he had been working non-stop daily to facilitate six stalls from various companies to be set up along Jalan Utama.
He said many stall owners had already liaised with him as early as June last year for their plans to set up stalls.
"It is about 60% to 70% progress so far and we expect to wrap it up by Monday evening," he added.
A few voluntary staff of First Solar (M) Sdn Bhd, which is based in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, could be seen busy setting up their stall.
AR. Jeyaganesh, the company's plant manager and also the festival's committee chairman, told theSun the company had taken part in the celebration for seven years.
This, he said was a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and most importantly to create awareness on solar energy.
"Free flow of drinks and food will also be provided to the devotees by Tuesday evening the before chariots arrive," he said, adding the stall will be fully functional by this evening.
Several roads leading to the hilltop temple will be closed in stages to allow devotees to pay homage to Lord Muruga as the chariots pass by.
Police will also be enhancing security along the route to ensure a smooth celebration this year.