One man's Thaipusam journey

Sureshkumar Manogeran stands next to his kavadi, which he will carry on his shoulders during this year's Thaipusam procession.

He puts on new clothes in preparation for the procession, accompanied by his brother, Krishna.

A priest smears powder on his face and body.

Suresh stands with his brothers, Krishna and Parthiban, as the priest says a prayer before the start of the procession.

Suresh kneels to offer a prayer with his family members.

His mother puts a garland of flowers around his neck as his friends help position the kavadi on his shoulders.

Suresh is then pierced by the 'vel' or the Sword of Lord Murugan.

Krishna leads the procession to the temple in Batu Caves, about 4km away.

Suresh enters a trance as he dances with his kavadi.

The procession nears the entrance of the temple in Batu Caves as massive crowds gather at the gates.

There, they make their way up the 272 steps as the crowds watch.

Suresh dances again at the foot of the stairs while the crowds shout praises to Lord Murugan.

Then he begins making his way up the steps, carrying his kavadi which weighs nearly 30kg.

His friends encourage him as he makes his way to the temple.

Finally, Suresh reaches the temple in the cave for the last part of the procession.

He puts down his kavadi and approaches the temple, carrying a pot of fresh milk to be used during the next ritual.