Celebration awes tourist

IPOH: A student from Japan, Raya Christin, 28, today took time off from her studies to go for Thaipusam at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Gunung Cheroh here.
"Its a whole new experience .... so unique and I am just awestruck. Thanks to my friend for taking me to the temple," said Raya who just could not believe the penance the devotees undertake especially the piercing of the tongue and body.
Raya of mix parentage and who studies at Multimedia University in Kuala Lumpur wants to visit the temple again next year during Thaipusam.
Najwa Ngaridin, 29, an event and marketing officer from Ipoh who brought Raya to the temple, said non-Hindus should make an effort to attend Thaipusam as they will understand better the meaning of the celebration and what the Hindus do.
"This is the second time I have been here ... we need to get closer to know the culture of the various races,"she added.
Meanwhile Persatuan Veteran India Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (PERIM) Perak set up a booth at the Sri Subramaniar Temple in Gunung Cheroh for the first time to explain career opportunities in the Armed Forces.
Its chairman Capt (rtd) A. Isparan Arunasalam said it was a platform for youngsters to find out the details if they wish to start a career in the force.
"We will get their data and inform them of any recruitment drive through SMS or other sources," he added.