Way back in the 15th century, when Melaka was a bustling port that attracted traders from across the world, South Indian traders arrived from the Coromandel Coast and ended up marrying Malay and Chinese women. This later turned into what is known as the Chetti Melaka community, or the Melaka-born Hindus.
And what a gorgeously diverse community they are.
The Melaka Facebook page recently shared images from the 10-day long Dato Chachar celebrations, also known as Mengamay, at the Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple at Jalan Gajah Berang, Melaka, that showcased Indians, Chinese, Babas and Nyonyas participating together.
According to the My Melaka Facebook page, the celebrations are in honour of the South Indian Hindu Goddess of rain, Maariamman or Maariaatha, Mari meaning ‘rain’ and Amman or Aatha meaning ‘mother’.
“The worshiping methods are non-vedic and often accompanied by various kinds of folk dancing.”
“Offerings such as pongal and koozh that are cooked using earthen pots are also made during the festive season. Rituals such as fire walking and mouth or nose piercings are also practiced,” they wrote, adding that devotees also pray to Mariamman for familial welfare such as fertility, healthy progeny or a good spouse.
This celebration normally takes place during April to May every year, and is one of two festivals unique to the Chetti Melaka community.
You can check out this post, to learn more on the Chetti Melaka community.
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