Thousands have gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to take part in a procession during the Thaipusam festival.

Thaipusam, which is celebrated in honor of Hindu god Lord Murugan, is an annual procession by Hindu devotees seeking blessings, fulfilling vows and offering thanks.

Asian Image:

A Hindu devotee smokes cigarette during a procession of the Thaipusam festival at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017. Pictures: AP/Daniel Chan.

Asian Image:

A Hindu devotee is embedded hooks into his back before taking part in a procession during the Thaipusam festival at Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017. 

Asian Image:

A Hindu devotee with hooks embedded into his back takes part in a procession during the Thaipusam festival at Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017.

Asian Image: