Deepavali is celebrated annually in the seventh month of the Tamil lunar calendar. This year, Deepavali falls on Oct 27, Monday, which is a national public holiday. The festival ymbolises the triumph of good over evil when, according to one legend, Lord Krishna defeated the evil King Narakasura. Hindus light oil lamps in their homes as a victorious symbol of light over darkness.
In Malaysia, Deepavali is celebrated on a grand scale at the national level with an open house concept where people from all races are invited to join in the celebration, to partake in a day of food, fun and culture.
In Kuala Lumpur, during the run-up to the festival, Jalan Masjid India and Lebuh Ampang areas, better known as Little Indias of Kuala Lumpur, are abuzz with activities.
Household items and festive decor line the streets as traders pit their prices against each other to attract festive buyers. If you are looking for things related to the Indian culture, this is a good time to pay Jalan Masjid India and Lebuh Ampang a visit.
There may be a little traffic congestion during peak hours (evenings between 5 to 8pm) and if you wish to do your shopping during that period, take public transport. Cab fares should not cost more than RM7 from Jalan Sultan Ismail where major hotels are located. If you decide to take the LRT, get down at the Masjid Jamek station. Lebuh Ampang and Jalan Masjid India is just a five-minute walk from the station.
You may also use the KTM Komuter and get down at the Bank Negara stop. You will need to walk a bit (about 20 minutes) from here, crossing Jalan Raja Laut, and Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (Jalan TAR). Masjid India is located parallel to this thoroughfare. Lebuh Ampang is located about 10 minutes' walk from Masjid India.
Map to Masjid India
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Map to Lebuh Ampang
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