S’porean man, 46, carries younger brother with cerebral palsy to Batu Caves yearly as part of Thaipusam

For most Hindu devotees, Thaipusam represents faith and sacrifice, embodied by the carrying of the kavadi, a bow-like structure that is fitted to the body during a walking procession.

But for 46-year-old Singaporean, Suresh Vanaz, devotion isn’t about elaborate offerings.

It is defined by his love, responsibility, and the deep bond he shares with his younger brother, Gunaseelan, 41, who has cerebral palsy.

Go to Batu Caves annually

Every year, Suresh carries Gunaseelan to Batu Caves in Selangor, Malaysia as part of his annual spiritual offering.

“This is my duty, my devotion. Caring for him, ensuring his happiness and well-being — that is my offering,” Suresh told New Straits Times (NST).

The older brother credits his younger brother for giving him purpose and deepening his connection with God.

Thaipusam, for them, is more than just a festival.

It is a shared experience of faith and community.

And of family.

Facing challenges, fulfilling dreams

Though they had hoped to visit Batu Caves again this year, logistical challenges led them to celebrate in Singapore instead.

Despite this, Suresh remains committed to fulfilling his brother’s dream of travelling the world.

"My brother's dream is to travel around the world. He wants to go to Phuket, Europe, and other places," he said.

However, as Gunaseelan’s sole caregiver and financial provider, turning that dream into reality is no easy feat.

"I want to give him the best life could offer and I'm still working on it. I hope God is kind to me, granting me the great fortune and blessing to bring him along and show him the world," he added.

"Why wait until it's too late to show love? I want him to feel it now, while he is here with me."

Suresh also said he recently took his brother to India, which tested the elder sibling's physical endurance.

"I had to carry him up and down constantly throughout the 11-day trip. By the time I got back, my body was aching, and I was completely exhausted," he recalled.

Breaking barriers

Growing up, their family faced societal stigma towards disabilities.

Determined to challenge these perceptions, Suresh has made it his mission to ensure Gunaseelan experiences life without limits.

“I just want him to experience life the way any other person would,” he said.

Top photos via Suresh Vanaz