MALAYSIA: Hindus gathered in temples across Malaysia on Saturday to celebrate the annual Thaipusam festival, with many piercing their bodies with hooks and skewers, despite concerns about the deadly coronavirus outbreak.
Massive crowds descended on the Batu Caves temple complex on the outskirts of capital Kuala Lumpur to participate in the event, where Hindus showcase their devotion to the deity Lord Murugan.
Worshippers walked barefoot up u00a0 u009d u00a0 steps to reach the templeu2014 an important religious site for Tamil Hindusu2014 armed with gifts, including milk pots, which are eventually smashed as offerings.
Many displayed their fervour by carrying heavy ornate metal structures called kavadis, affixed to their bodies with sharp metal spikes that are hammered into the skin.
Some devotees appeared to be in a state of trance as they carried the kavadis, which can weigh as much as . . . kg.
Others pierced their faces with tridents or hung multiple hooks and chains from their bodies in an act of penance.
The crowd at the Batu Caves looked as big as in previous years despite worries about the new virus, and only a handful were wearing protective masks.
The pathogen has killed hundreds and infected tens of thousands in China and is spreading around the world.
Malaysia has so far reported . . cases, mostly in visiting Chinese nationals.
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