Another 60 people, including 10 police personnel, were injured in the clashes.

Sureshkumar Manogeran has carried the kavadi for Thaipusam each year for 20 years, since he was 18.

Malaysian Hindus mark Thaipusam in a vibrant, colourful show of tradition and culture.

India has a long history of communal violence and authorities have shut down internet connections and imposed a curfew in the city where the attack took place to prevent unrest.

They say India is a 'Hindu nation' and that no religious outfits should be seen in educational institutes.

Hundreds headed to the Batu Caves temple complex outside Kuala Lumpur and walked barefoot up 272 multi-coloured steps to reach the site, carrying offerings such as milk pots.

Many in the Muslim community say they have been increasingly subject to attacks and threats since Narendra Modi came to power while Christians have also been subject to violence and harassment.

At least 28 civilians have been killed by suspected militants this year in the Muslim-majority region.

The mob was enraged after a boy aged eight, accused of blasphemy, was released on bail.

Several million people are expected to throng the holy city in Uttarakhand state over the coming seven weeks.