Hair can be worth big bucks

Hair can be worth big bucks

By M. Shaminee

Hair sacrificed by devotees during Thaipusam is being wasted as it is worth big bucks internationally.

This was an observation made by several barbers from India, who were working at booths set up during Thaipusam at Batu Caves.

"Instead of throwing the hair away, local businessmen can make big bucks by selling it to international wig makers. In India, hair is worth between US$200 (RM602) and US$300 (RM903) per kg," said A. Kartikayan, 28, who hails from Tamil Nadu.

Local barbers are unaware of the huge business potential.

"Every year, I collect all the shaved hair and throw it into the river. That's what I have been doing for the past nine years after Thaipusam," said barber P. Siva-nanthan, 36.

He estimates that over 100kg of hair is dumped in the river near the temple every year.

Published Jan 23 2011