Masochist or missionary?

A full moon, never-ending chanting, dozen of hooks hanging from hundred of bodies in a celebration that aggregates more than a million visitor every year. For a westerners eye it might appear masochistic and even primitive, but for Hindu devotees, Thaipusam is a day for thanksgiving and one of the most colorful and ritualistic festivals celebrated in South East Asia.

Celebrated during the full moon of Thai, the 10 th month of the Tamil calendar (Thai-10 th , Pusam when the moon is at its brightest), is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of youth, power and virtue. On Thaipusam he was given a lance from his mother, the goddess Mari and was able to overcome evil demons.

For a period of a month, devotees prepare themselves living a life of abstinence, observing celibacy, a vegetarian diet and fasting completely for the last couple of days. They pierce through their tongue and cheeks sharp spires, preventing from speaking and reminding them of the Lord constantly. Kavadi worshippers seem to radiate an incredible ecstasy. Prayers, chants and music fill the air throughout the celebration.

Back