Bright and festive
Colourful Deepavali celebration a sight to behold for many
MIC’s vibrant Deepavali celebration at Batu Caves, with the Prime Minister and other Cabinet ministers, is a sight to behold for tourists.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s cultural diversity showcased during Deepavali celebrations at Batu Caves intrigued British tourist PaulEric Licari and his family.
Licari, 31, was amazed to see people of different races and religions thronging the temple complex to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
“This is our first time in Malaysia. We arrived here just over a week ago to experience the local culture,” he said, adding that the whole country was vibrant.
Swedish tourist Gerd Ljunqqvist, 68, said he was taken by the friendliness of Malaysians.
“So far it has been a wonderful experience, especially when we interact with locals. We cannot wait to try the Indian food,” said the retired engineer.
His wife SuenGoran Jezek, a retired nurse, said she loved Malaysia’s hot weather and culture.
“It’s snowing back home,” she said, adding that their experience so far had been truly memorable.
Indian tourist C. Prathamesh, 31, said he came with his wife to see how Deepavali is celebrated here.
“We like the lively community and the temple is beautiful,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak joined thousands of Hindus and other Malaysians to celebrate Deepavali in the spirit of muhibbah.
Najib attended MIC’s Deepavali open house held at the compound of the Batu Caves complex.
Dressed in a kurta or traditional Indian shirt, Najib was given a warm welcome by MIC president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam and other top party leaders.
Other leaders present included MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, Gerakan president Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong and Barisan Nasional secretarygeneral Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor.
Dr Subramaniam said Deepavali was an opportunity to strengthen unity in multiracial Malaysia.
“We use this and other festivals to unite our diverse society.
“We should preserve this culture of celebrating each other’s festivals as this is what helps us to unite as a country,” said Dr Subramaniam.
Visitors and devotees started to gather as early as 8am to join in the celebration.
They were treated to various Indian dishes such as thosai, briyani and vadai at the open house.
Guests were also entertained by Tamil songs, traditional Indian dances and a 1Malaysia dance showcasing the various cultures in the country.