Love and tradition: A unique celebration of Chinese New Year

This Chinese New Year, content creator Karyn Juliana Kan and pilot Kavin Thiagarajen reflect on how festivals unite their families and cultures.

Their story showcases the beauty of diversity and tradition in a multicultural Malaysia.

Karyn, a Catholic Chinese, and Kavin, a Hindu Indian, tied the knot last year after dating for five years.

Festivals as bridges between cultures

This year, as they celebrate Chinese New Year, Karyn and Kavin reflect on how traditions have strengthened their bond.

For Kavin, experiencing the festival has been both exciting and educational.

“Reunion dinners were a new experience for me. I learned that the dishes have meanings—prawns for laughter and abalone for abundance.

It’s fascinating how food tells a story,” he said.

Kavin also embraced Chinese New Year games like Mahjong and Rummy. “There’s strategy and mental calculation involved.

When I win against the aunties and uncles, they’re both impressed and amused,” he shared with a laugh.

Their seamless way of dividing holiday celebrations has further strengthened their relationship.

“We spend Chinese New Year and Christmas with my family and Deepavali with his. It’s an unspoken understanding that works perfectly for us,” Karyn explained.

Blending cultures for future generations

As they envision their future, Karyn and Kavin are eager to pass down the rich traditions of both their cultures to their children.

“We’re excited about giving our kids meaningful names—Chinese, English, and Tamil names,” Kavin shared.

For this couple, celebrating Chinese New Year together symbolises more than a festive occasion—it’s a commitment to embracing diversity and fostering understanding.

Their journey of blending cultures and embracing each other’s traditions has captured hearts on TikTok.

“It all began with a simple video of me learning how to drape a saree for our legal marriage ceremony, and it unexpectedly went viral,” said Karyn.

“I realised people are really interested in interracial and interfaith marriages, so I decided to document our journey.”

Their posts resonate with followers, many of whom seek advice on navigating interfaith relationships.

“People often ask about church teachings, handling religious differences, or raising children. I tell them it’s about mutual respect and open communication,” she added.

Their story reflects the unique beauty of Malaysia’s multicultural fabric, proving that love and respect transcend differences.

Karyn and Kavin’s journey inspires couples navigating interfaith or interracial relationships.

Their celebration of Chinese New Year highlights the importance of blending traditions, fostering harmony, and embracing diversity.