Kuala Lumpur: Maintenance and repairs at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, Batu Caves, which include the provision of women's toilets and new tiling, are expected to be completed by Thaipusam next month. The temple committee chairman, Tan Sri R. Nadarajah, confirmed that approximately RM6 million has been invested in these improvements.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri R. Nadarajah stated that an initial RM5 million was allocated to construct two complexes at the temple, with additional funds directed towards building special toilets for women. He emphasized the urgency of completing these renovations to accommodate devotees during Thaipusam. This announcement was made following the Pongal ceremony at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple on Jalan Tun H. S. Lee.
Nadarajah further announced that the National Pongal Unity Celebration, scheduled for January 19 at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, will showcase various traditional activities of the Indian community. The event is expected to feature prominent attendees, including MIC president Tan Sri S. A. Vigneswaran and his deputy, Datuk Seri M. Saravanan.
Earlier in the day, Nadarajah, along with his wife Puan Seri Mallika, led the Pongal harvest festival ceremony at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple. The event was attended by more than 100 devotees, demonstrating the vibrant cultural traditions upheld by the community.
Devotees like M. Manokari, 65, and Josephine, 72, expressed their dedication to participating in the annual Pongal ritual, despite traveling from Shah Alam, Selangor. Manokari shared that the journey, involving an early start and a ride on the Light Rail Transit, was worthwhile for the sense of joy and tradition experienced at one of the country's oldest temples.
In Setapak, the Sri Ayyanreeswarar Temple also celebrated the Pongal festival with enthusiasm, maintaining a tradition that began 30 years ago. Datin Jayam Shanmugam, 71, recounted her unwavering annual visits to the temple since the 1970s, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural significance of the festival.
Meanwhile, in Little India, Brickfields, temples were bustling with activity from early morning as Hindu devotees gathered to participate in Pongal ceremonies before commencing their daily routines.