Culture of Malaysian Indian - Thaipusam - Kavinmullai Naguchete

As a cultural enthusiast, I find it exciting how the Indian culture is not bound by political boundaries. Malaysia is a great example. 

Thaipusam festival is a true celebration of the Malaysian-Indian cultural heritage. The festivities are organized in honour of Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya) and take place at Batu Caves, in Selangor. Devotees congregate from throughout Malaysia. Many carry Kavadis– heavy tableaus worn around waist that are meant to serve as self-retribution of misdeeds- while others subject themselves to cheek or tongue piercings, in show of enduring devotion to God. Deepavali is also a major festival for the Malaysia-Indians and is a national holiday. Shared history means that the countries will be forever connected by the Indian-origin diaspora and its unique culture, which is a confluence of Malaysian and Indian practices.