Teluk bahang: The annual Maasi Magam Theppa Thiruvizha, also known as the Floating Lantern Festival, at the Sri Singamuga Kaliamman Temple in Teluk Bahang is set to draw a crowd of 30,000 devotees this year. This marks the 129th edition of the historic sea-based religious celebration.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Temple Chairman A. Kanapathy shared that the traditional floating chariot festival, scheduled for March 2, is deeply rooted in the belief among early settlers and fishermen that the sea is a source of sustenance and divine blessings, a tradition that has been upheld since 1897.
"In the early days, fishermen and villagers here depended entirely on the sea for their livelihood. They believed the sea and sea god brought them prosperity and protection, thus they perform prayers and that continues today through this festival," Kanapathy explained. He added that historical artifacts and old deity statues discovered during the temple's early years were immersed in the sea, and the festival's prayers at sea continue this tradition, maintaining the belief in the divine presence.
Kanapathy highlighted that the Maasi Magam celebration in Teluk Bahang carries a distinct heritage linked to the temple's origins and ancient relics associated with the site. Celebrated during the full moon between February and March, Maasi Magam aligns with the Tamil calendar month of 'Maasi' and the Hindu astrological star 'Magam.'
He stated, "We conduct special prayers at the sea to honour the deities and seek blessings. Devotees believe their prayers, offered with faith, have a strong chance of being fulfilled through the grace of god (Singamuga Kaliamman)."
On preparations, Kanapathy noted that arrangements are progressing smoothly, with support from the local community, including youths and women from the village, as well as 30 to 50 volunteers from outside the area. The festival day's program will start at 6:30 am with milk pot offerings, followed by temple rituals and special prayers. Annadanam (food offering) will take place at noon, and the main special evening pooja at 6 pm will precede the deity's procession to the sea.
Over 60 stalls are expected to be operational, offering various items and foods to visitors and devotees. For crowd management, the temple committee is collaborating with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and other relevant agencies such as the Civil Defence Force (APM) and People's Volunteer Corps (RELA) to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety during the event.
The Theppa Thiruvizha in Teluk Bahang, characterized by a lavishly adorned floating chariot illuminated with lights and decorated with flowers, will carry the temple's deities. Thousands of devotees are expected to release lantern-like lights into the sea while making wishes during the chariot procession, creating a spiritually significant spectacle along the coastline.