State Holiday

Thaipusam

State Holiday

Thaipusam is a significant Hindu festival celebrated mainly by the Tamil community. It commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan a "Vel" (spear) so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman. It is a day of penance, fulfillment of vows, and thanksgiving. In Malaysia, it is a public holiday in several states including Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, Penang, and Selangor.

Traditions & Celebrations

Kavadi Attam: Devotees carry "Kavadis"—decorated structures attached to the body via hooks and skewers—as a sign of devotion and penance.
Paal Kudam: Many devotees, especially women and children, carry pots of milk on their heads to be offered to Lord Murugan.
Chariot Procession: A silver chariot carrying the idol of the deity is paraded through the streets, accompanied by music and chanting.
Hair Shaving: Devotees often shave their heads as a symbolic act of humility and the shedding of ego.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Date	Day	Status
2026	February 1, 2026	Sunday	14 days