Kuala Lumpur:A festive atmosphere enveloped towns and cities across Malaysia as Hindus celebrated Deepavali with prayers, temple visits, and gatherings with family and friends.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves was bustling with activity as families, dressed in colorful traditional attire, arrived early to offer prayers. Among the visitors was Vishnu, 36, who, along with his family, continued the tradition of temple visits, a custom since his childhood. He noted the presence of tourists and Malaysians of various races joining in the celebrations.

In Selangor, devotee A. Narmatha expressed hopes for happiness and blessings for all during this year's Deepavali. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, in a Facebook post, emphasized the celebration's role in uniting diverse communities and assured continued governmental support for the Indian community's welfare.

In Perak, approximately 10,000 Hindus gathered at the Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniar Temple in Ipoh. Temple chairman R. Seetharaman mentioned that many devotees began their day with prayers at home before arriving at the temple carrying offerings.

In Penang, the Muniswarar Temple and the Arulmigu Karumariamman Temple saw early morning crowds. Housewife R. Dewi from Seberang Jaya highlighted Deepavali as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and foster unity among neighbors.

The Sri Bala Thandayuthapani Temple in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, organized two prayer sessions to avoid overcrowding. In Kedah, Hindus in Anak Bukit celebrated peacefully, relieved from previous flood worries, with resident R. Nandran hosting an open house for friends and neighbors.

In Kelantan, the community in Kampung Ladang Kerrila celebrated simply yet meaningfully. Resident G. Maran cherished the chance to reunite with relatives. In Johor, the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple in Johor Bahru attracted 2,500 devotees and foreign tourists interested in its architecture and traditions.

In Pahang, R. Palamal's home in Kuantan was filled with family cheer as relatives gathered post-prayers at the Sri Mariamman Temple. In Perlis, the Arulmigu Arumugaswamy Dhevasthanam Temple welcomed devotees and extended the festival's joy by distributing food to an old folks' home, as stated by temple chairman Datuk Dr. R. Hari Ram.

These events across Malaysia highlight the spirit of unity and cultural richness of the Deepavali celebrations.