Man shows devotion by carrying brother with cerebral palsy up steps to Batu Caves for Thaipusam
Poong Qi Tao
TNP
Feb 13, 2025
For most Hindu devotees, Thaipusam is a time of faith and sacrifice, marked by the carrying of the kavadi, a physical burden symbolising devotion.
For 46-year-old Suresh Vanaz, his devotion isn't displayed through offerings or rituals.
His load is one of love - a commitment to his younger brother, Gunaseelan, 41, who has cerebral palsy.
Every year, Mr Suresh carries his brother up the steep steps of Batu Caves in Selangor, Malaysia, as part of their Thaipusam tradition - an act he considers a privilege, not a duty.
"Taking care of him, making sure he's happy - that is my offering," Mr Suresh told New Straits Times.
This year, the brothers had planned to return to Batu Caves. But unforeseen challenges meant they had to celebrate in Singapore instead.
Yet, Mr Suresh remained focused on his goal of fulfilling his brother's dream of travelling to see the world.
"He wants to see the world, Phuket, Europe and such. I want to make that happen," he shared.
But being his brother's sole caregiver and financial provider means it won't be easy.
"I pray for the strength and means to give him that experience. Life is short, don't wait until it's too late to show love."
Mr Suresh recently took Mr Gunaseelan to India - an experience that tested his physical limits.
"For 11 days, I carried him everywhere we went. By the time we got home, I was completely drained," he admitted.
Growing up, Mr Suresh saw how society viewed disabilities - with discomfort, indifference and even shame. He refused to let that define his brother's life.
"I just want him to experience life without limits, the way any other person would."
