AdminIn a remarkable act of compassion and dedication, 25 disabled devotees experienced the joy of fulfilling their spiritual vows at the Arulmigu Balathandayuthabani Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga, Penang, yesterday. This heartwarming initiative was made possible by Malaysia Tamilan Uthavum Karangkal (MTUK), a non-governmental organization (NGO) devoted to assisting physically disabled individuals in their spiritual commitments.
MTUK founder Dr A. Muraly shared that the organization has been carrying out such initiatives since 1999. However, this was the first time they facilitated the journey for disabled devotees in Penang, having previously provided similar assistance at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves, Selangor.
“What my team and I are doing is to bring joy to the disabled community because they too wish to go up to the temple but are unable to do so,” Dr Muraly said, adding that the initiative was driven by a desire to give back to those in need.
Volunteers Carry Devotees Up 513 Steps
A dedicated team of 125 volunteers from Kuala Lumpur and Penang worked tirelessly, taking turns to carry wheelchair-bound devotees up the 513 steps leading to the temple’s summit. The volunteers first received blessings from the devotees before beginning their ascent at 4.30 pm.
Upon reaching the temple, the devotees were able to pray and make their offerings before being carefully carried back down by the volunteers at 5.30 pm. The moment was emotional for many, with some devotees shedding tears of joy at finally being able to participate in the Thaipusam rituals they had long yearned for.
“We could see how happy they were, with some even shedding tears, as their long-held wish to reach the temple for Thaipusam was finally fulfilled. That’s what makes us feel proud,” Dr Muraly added.
Emotional Moments for Devotees
Among the devotees was 50-year-old M. Eswari, who had not visited the temple in 10 years after being partially paralysed in a road accident. Overwhelmed with emotion, the single mother expressed her gratitude for being able to return to the temple.
“Before this, every Thaipusam, I would come to this temple, but for the past 10 years, I haven’t been able to. Today, I feel deeply moved because I could go up again. I prayed that I would be able to walk again for the sake of my children,” she said.
Seventy-year-old former soldier A. Arumugam, who lost his right leg to diabetes two years ago, also shared his feelings about the experience.
“Because of that, I now wear a prosthetic leg, so my movements are limited. But today, I was able to go up with the help of the volunteers, whose moral support made me even more determined,” he said.
Volunteers Find Deep Fulfilment in Service
Many volunteers found the experience deeply fulfilling as they worked together to assist the disabled devotees. The sense of camaraderie and purpose was evident as they carried devotees up the temple steps, witnessing firsthand the immense joy and gratitude on their faces. For many, the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause reinforced the importance of compassion and community service.
The event was also attended by Penang Hindu Endowments Board (LWHPP) chairman RSN Rayer and State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo. Their presence highlighted the significance of community support and inclusivity in religious celebrations.
This Thaipusam, the unwavering spirit of devotion and generosity was on full display, proving that no obstacle is too great when a community comes together to uplift those in need.
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