Malaysia: Devotees flock to Batu Caves on the eve of the Thaipusam Festival

Hindu devotees flocked to the Batu Caves on the eve of the annual Thaipusam festival to fulfill their vows and to worship Lord Murugan, the Lord of War. Devotees fast for 48 days and undergo physical pain as devotion to the Hindu deity. Photos courtesy of Hon Keong Soo (Demotix)

A group of musicians accompany devotees marching towards Batu Caves temple complex on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A Hindu devotee in a trance and with cheeks pierced by a metal rod prepares to walk towards Batu Caves temple complex on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A Hindu devotee in a trance, dances energetically as he reaches near the entrance of the road leading to Batu Caves temple complex on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A man shaves the head of a yawning child ahead of the celebrations of the Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A young Kavadi Carrier getting ready to march towards the main temple of Batu Caves.

A young devotee with freshly-shaven head holds a jar filled with milk on his head as he prepares to march towards Batu Caves temple complex on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A devotee goes into a trance with the help of a Hindu priest prior to making his way towards Batu Caves temple complex on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.

A devotee cleanses his body before making his way towards the main temple of Batu Caves on the eve of the annual Thaipusam Festival in Malaysia.