We are in Kuala Lumpur for just four short days. The attractions of Malaysia are extensive; not only in amount but also in difference. We've done the shopping, we've done the eating, we've gazed upon the architectural marvels. Today, we travelled to the Batu Caves - naturally and religiously remarkable. As travellers we are often drawn to ancient places of worship, not as pilgrims but merely as tourists. Regardless of our faith we are fascinated by the beauty, opulence and history of many of these sites. In fact, the pilgrimage was one of the earliest forms of tourism and a tradition that continues to exist throughout the world and across many religions. As a tourist, witnessing a festive pilgrimage is an experience unlike any other. You can't help but be enveloped by the colours, music and ritual that overwhelm your senses.
Today, we were lucky enough to be those tourists who curiously wondered, 'What was going on?'
Thai Pusam is a colourful fusion of faith, thanksgiving and hope, where over 1 million Hindu devotees travel to the Batu Caves just on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. The passage up to the caves includes 272 steep steps. Climbing them is a feat in itself, but how at ease we felt when we came across the men carrying kavadis, a physical burden of devotion. These included hooks attached into their backs, which were pulled by someone walking behind them.
The caves are adorned by vibrant statues and alters, but we were fortunate to see it also decorated by flowers, incense and hundreds of people dressed in bright yellow and orange robes.
On our decent back down, we met a number of cheeky monkeys who were eager to steal drink bottles and food. We'd been warned to keep them concealed, so instead we could delight in the show of monkeys rummaging through their treasures, stolen from unsuspecting tourists.
As we returned to our private taxi, we sampled some Indian delicacies from stalls set up for the festival. A poignant contrast from the solemn walk through the Batu Caves, the streets below were joyful and celebratory.
Such an intriguing experience, in such a beautiful place of the world.
Very interesting. It's amazing to see how different and diverse different religions are to ours overseas. It's also really interesting to see such loyalty and sacrifce that is given by some people all for the name of a god. It proves how strong their faith is and how willing they are to sacrifice to a greater force which cannot be proven to exist in the physical world.
ReplyDeleteI was a bit saddened to hear that the monkey's are living in such an urbanised environment as I believe they should really be in a more natural habitiat, not an urbanised city. I am becoming more and more worried for these poor primates who have become domesticated to our unresourceful human ways. It's just not right for monkeys to be feeding off cans of coke and packets of chips. I also would like to say how well written this blog is. It truy captured the moment and told me a story. Good job!