In the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, a 10-day long celebration, “Brahmotsavam”, is held. Thaipusam stands for “Thai”, the Tamil month for January/February and “Pusam”, the star.
The Hindu Tamils of India celebrates it on the first Purnima (full moon day) of the Thai month. Thaipusam is also commemorated in Kerala and is called “Thaipooyam” in Malayalam.
The story behind this auspicious day marks the day when Devas defeated Asuras (Soorapadman) after Goddess Parvati bestowed Lord Murugan, also known as Lord Kartikeya, with Vel (the divine spear). Hence, it is celebrated as the day when good won over evil.
Devotees perform “Kavadi Attam”, a ceremonial act of devotion by dancing, bodily self-mortification like piercing cheeks or tongue, etc., and food offerings.
People also fast before the day to cleanse their body of any bad karma and go on pilgrimage on set routes while bearing all sorts of “kavadis”, some even barefoot. Worshippers believe that devoutly praying to Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War, on this day, can free one from all bad traits or bad “karma”.
Amid the pandemic and among the recent rise in cases, Thaipusam was celebrated per the restrictions and protocols of Covid-19 in the Southeast Asian countries. It is also observed in other parts of the world like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Singapore, Malaysia, etc. This year, the festival was on January 18.
Published By – Vanshu Mehra
Edited By – Mahi Gupta
