Thaipusam Celebration in the Batu Caves
Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated mostly by the Tamil community on the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai (January/February). It is not only observed in countries where the Tamil community constitutes a majority, but also in countries where Tamil communities are smaller, such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Myanmar.
The word Thaipusam is a combination of the name of the month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam. This particular star is at its highest point during the festival. The festival commemorates the occasion when Parvati gave Murugan a Vel (spear) so he could vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman.
In Malaysia, the temple at Batu Caves, near Kuala Lumpur, often attracts over one million devotees and tens of thousands of tourists. The procession to the caves starts at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur in the heart of the city and proceeds for 15 kilometers to the caves, an 8-hour journey culminating in a flight of 272 steps to the top. Devotees carry offerings to the main cave to seek forgiveness for past deeds or to thank Lord Murugan for wishes granted. Some devotees take milk pots, “kavadis,” and/or spikes pierced on their body as offerings.
Despite the fact that we don’t practice any religion, we witnessed the Thaipusam celebration with respect and admiration. Experiencing this active demonstration of devotion made us think about the power of our minds and beliefs, as it can overcome any barriers including physical pain. It is an incredible feeling to be in touch with the strength carried by the thoughts and culture of humans. We are excited to continue learning more about all the diversity and subjectivity that the world has to offer.
Offering
Offering
Dancing
