Thaipusam celebrations continue with silver chariot in Penang

GEORGE TOWN: The Thaipusam festivities in Penang gained momentum as the silver chariot carrying Lord Murugan set off, following the earlier journey of the golden chariot.

Despite a half-hour delay, the procession went smoothly without any incidents.

Devotees thronged the streets, offering prayers and witnessing the sacred procession, which symbolises devotion and spiritual significance.

Many devotees tried to touch the chariot as a sign of seeking blessings as the procession moved along.

The silver chariot, carrying the statue of Lord Murugan, left the Kovil Veedu (Temple House) on Penang Street at about 7.30am.

It followed closely behind the golden chariot on the same route and will end at the Nattukotai Chettiar Temple at Waterfall.

The sounds of "vel vel vetri" or "vel vel Murugan" from the devotees could be heard as they accompanied the procession.

Traditional drummers accompanied the silver chariot, with devotees fulfilling their vows by following the chariot.

The Thaipusam procession in Penang traces its origins back to 1856, with the silver chariot being the sole feature until 2017, when the Penang Hindu Endowment Board introduced the golden chariot.