Main image via Pinterest

Many of us who celebrate Thaipusam today still don’t have a clearer understanding of what the religious festival is about. The word Thaipusam is an combination of words — the month of Thai and the name of the star, Pusam. It’s the time of the year for Hindus of all castes and cultures to show their devotion to Lord Murugan, son of Shiva. That’s when they chant “Vel, Vel”.

Thaipusam is about devotion, determination and penance. When it’s celebrated in Malaysia, it’s vibrant and celebrations can stretch for 3 to 4 days. Did you know that the festival of Thaipusam was brought to Malaysia in the 1800s and first celebrated in Batu Caves in 1888? Since then, it’s become a vital conveyance of cultural and religious identity to Malaysians of Tamil Indian origin and it’s the most largest and significant Hindu festive occasion in Malaysia. 

Here you will find how it’s celebrated, from scratch.

Preparations:

Image via Pinterest / Chariot 

Before the festival day itself, an early morning chariot procession will take place. Even before the sun rises, thousands of people will walk miles with Lord Murugan's chariot making his way to Batu Caves. It’s one of the best things to do every Thaipusam because you get to walk with your loved ones and Lord Murugan chariot while praying. 

Image via Candies For Bullets / Milk Vessel known as Paal Kudam

Devotees walk with the chariot with bowls of fruit, milk vessel known as Paal Kudam and even hold their babies up towards the chariot to seek blessings. What’s even more exciting is groups of musicians and drummers known as Urumi Melam add to the festive feel and follow the procession. Here’s an extra information, Urumi Melam consists of double-reed instruments known as Nadaswaram, a pair of double headed drums called Pambai, and one to three Urumi drums. 

Image via Flickr / Urumi Melam

It’s always known as a colorful event and on that day, you can witness people wearing yellow and orange — the colors of Murugan, dominate. 

Deep respect for Lord Murugan:
On Thaipusam, devotees go all out in different lengths to show their devotion for Lord Murugan. Some simply join the crowds in the heat, to Batu Caves and climb the 272 colorful steps to chant their prayers to Lord Murugan at his shrine. 

Some carry milk vessels known as Paal Kudam on their heads, heading to Batu Caves as a show of devotion and love to the god. 

Image via Grey Chow Photography / Fire Pot 

Others carry decorative frameworks known as Kavadis on their shoulders, which have chains hanging down with hooks at their backs. Many of these pilgrims are pierced with two skewers, better known as Vel, a symbolic spear of Thaipusam — one through the tongue and one through the cheeks. 

Image via Pinterest / Pulling Heavy Chariots 

Some go even further and pull heavy chariots fastened to metal hooks to their backs. The skin tugs as they go, all in the name of Lord Murugan. 

Kavadi Carrier:

Image via Wikimedia Commons / Decorative Frameworks known as Kavadi 

Each Kavadi carrier has a group of helpers who assist and encourage them throughout the journey. These helpers form a protective ring around the Kavadi so the carrier can dance freely induced by chanting, drumming (Urumi Melam) and incense. This reflects Murugan’s role as Lord of the Dance. 

At Batu Caves:
Once the devotees have climbed the steep stairs of Batu Caves, some will pour their milk vessel for Lord Murugan, Kavadi carriers will perform their final ritual prayers by unhooking the Kavadis and some will just partake in the appreciation ceremony for Lord Murugan. 

Thaipusam is celebrated faithfully to fulfill the devotees vows. Can’t wait any longer for 8th February. Have a safe Thaipusam this year. Vetrivel Muruganukku Arogara!