At 19, Pasu Pathe is already guiding others in prayer

At just 19 years old, S Pasu Pathe is already juggling the responsibilities of managing Muniandy Temple in Gua Musang. The task would be overwhelming for someone twice his age. For the past two years, he has been handling prayer ceremonies independently and catering to the needs of devotees at the temple located in Taman Tropika.

Pasu Pathe's fascination with religious life started in his childhood when he used to accompany his father to the temple. He began learning the duties of a priest even while still in Year Six. This early exposure gradually evolved into a commitment that he decided to embrace with his parents' full backing. "I have been managing this temple for two years and can now conduct prayer ceremonies independently," he shared with Bernama.

Prior to this, he trained under a senior priest at Sri Subramanyaswamy Temple, one of Gua Musang's most renowned Hindu temples.

A typical day for Pasu Pathe begins as early as 7 am and extends until 6 pm, contingent upon religious obligations and the requirements of visiting devotees. The position necessitates discipline, encompassing not only monitoring his conduct and diet but also adhering to a vegetarian lifestyle. He is also mindful of what he consumes before the ceremonies.

During Deepavali, the busyness of the days intensifies. Pasu Pathe contributes to decorating the prayer area, preparing ritual items, and welcoming devotees before venturing to Sri Subramanyaswamy Temple to pray and assist its committee. Only after fulfilling his temple duties does he return home to spend time with his family. Despite the considerable responsibility, Pasu Pathe remains a young individual with aspirations.

The younger of two siblings, Pasu Pathe is proficient in Mandarin and plans to eventually relocate to another state, seeking fresh experiences and employment. Nonetheless, the years he has spent caring for a temple have imprinted essential life lessons upon him - discipline, responsibility, and efficient time management.