“Penang’s Chetti Pusam Procession Lights up Eve of Thaipusam With Tradition and Devotion”, Hinduism Today, February 03, 2026

“GEORGE TOWN, MALAYSIA, JANUARY 31, 2026 (Malay Mail): Chetti Pusam, celebrated by the Chettiar community on the eve of Thaipusam in Penang, was captivating with the elaborately decorated chariots and colorful procession accompanied by 90 peacock kavadi, around the Chettiar community in conjunction with Thaipusam tomorrow (February 1). The Thaipusam celebration in this state continues to captivate as the Golden Chariot, first introduced in 2017, proudly carries the Vel (spear), the sacred weapon of Lord Murugan, starting its journey as early as 6am from Queen Street towards the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple on Jalan Kebun Bunga.

The Golden Chariot adorned with intricate carvings, the golden light, and colorful flowers contributed to the atmosphere, witnessed by thousands of local and international devotees and tourists who lined the procession route. About an hour later, the focus shifted to the equally mesmerizing 132-year-old Silver Chariot as the historic vehicle carried the statue of Lord Murugan and moved from the Nagarathar Kovil Veedu Temple on Penang Road to the Nattukottai Chettiar Temple on Jalan Air Terjun.

Meanwhile, Nattukottai Chettiar Temple managing trustee PRC Veerappan said the Silver Chariot, built in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India, and shipped to Penang in January 1894, was pulled by two bulls in turns. He said that 16 pairs of bulls were used and changed approximately every 1,640 feet to ensure the welfare of the animals involved was maintained. The use of bulls in chariot procession is a tradition honoring Nandi, the sacred bull considered the protector of Lord Shiva’s family in the Hindu tradition……..”

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