Thaipusam
Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated annually either in January or February. Last weekend Daniel, Jeffery and I headed into Little India to observe Thaipusam. There were people everywhere - watchers, partakers, and supporters. At the temple where preparations were being done for Kavadi we found people were very friendly even as pictures were being snapped in every direction. The noise, concentration, smells and emotions were overwhelming. We were all, however, glad that we went and had this experience.
Thaipusam is a feast for the Hindu's Lord Subramaniam. They believe he is the universal granter of wishes. Hindus partake in this festival for one of three reasons 1. to seek a favour 2. to fulfill a vow for a favour received or 3. to repent for past sins. Kavadi is the piercing component of the festival where men will carry the Kavadi, a large offering, through skewers or spikes in their bodies.
