Indian

The Indians in Malaysia make up only 10 percent of the total population but their sense of culture is deeply rooted in tradition. A large number of them are Hindus and Tamils while there are also a number of Sikhs, Malayees, Telugus and Parsis. The Indian muslims are known in the restaurant and textile business.

Festivals/Celebration

The Hindus celebrate Deepavali as a sign of remembrance of the battle of light over darkness. That is why it is also called the 'Festival of Lights'. Most will decorate their houses with coloured lights and also flower garlands. The Hindus wake up early in the morning and offer their prayers at the temples.

The festivities include having 'open house' for friends and relatives alike. Thaipusam is another celebration altogether. On this day, Hindus whose prayers have been answered by their gods have to make good their promise of penance. Devotees let their bodies be pierced and carry a 'kavadi', a metal contraption to evoke pain, up the steps into the temple of Batu Caves in Selangor.