Thaipusam
January 25, Thursday
History and Significance
Thaipusam is celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Thai (January-February). The word "Thaipusam" comes from the combination of "Thai", meaning month, and "pusam", the star that is at its highest point during this festival.
According to Hindu mythology, Thaipusam is associated with the god Murugan, the son of Shiva and Parvati, who was given a divine weapon, the spear (vel), to destroy the demon Surapadman and his troops. The festival symbolizes purification, liberation from sins, and the triumph of light over darkness.
How Thaipusam is celebrated
Pilgrimage. During the festival, devotees make pilgrimages to temples dedicated to Lord Murugan. The most famous pilgrimage takes place in Malaysia, where thousands of devotees go to the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur. This place is considered sacred and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.
Ascetic vows and purification. Devotees begin preparing for Thaipusam several days or weeks in advance, observing strict fasts and praying. The festival is a time of self-discipline and humility, when many give up earthly pleasures such as meat and alcohol.
Kavadis. One of the most impressive aspects of Thaipusam is the procession of "kavadis" - a ritual of self-sacrifice during which pilgrims carry heavy structures (kavadis) in the form of decorated arches or other symbolic objects. Some pilgrims undergo physical ordeals, such as piercing their skin, tongue, and cheeks with sharp spears or hooks. This act is seen as a sacrifice to Lord Murugan and symbolizes liberation from physical pain and spiritual purification.
Worship and rituals. Special prayers and rituals are performed in temples in honor of Murugan. Pilgrims bring offerings to the temple, such as milk or fruits, which are carried in jugs on their heads as a symbol of purity and blessing. At the Batu Caves, pilgrims climb 272 steps to the temple in the caves to present their offerings.
Cultural events. In some countries, the festival is accompanied by cultural events such as dance and traditional music, which add an atmosphere of joy and unity to the celebration.
Thaipusam in different countries
Malaysia. The largest Thaipusam celebration takes place at the Batu Caves, where hundreds of thousands of pilgrims gather every year. This temple complex is an important place of worship for Murugan.
Singapore: In Singapore, the festival is celebrated with a procession from the Sri Srinavasa Perumal Temple to the Sri Thandeithuthapani Temple, and many devotees also perform the 'kavadi' ritual.
India: In Tamil Nadu, Thaipusam is celebrated at important temples such as Tiruchendur and Palani, where pilgrimages take place in large numbers.
Thaipusam in other years
- 2022 January 18, Tuesday
- 2023 February 5, Sunday
- 2025 February 11, Tuesday