Thaipusam

Thaipusam

by Manjeet Dhillon
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Rhythm of Faith

Under the full moon’s ethereal glow, the sound of beating of drums and devotional chants reverberates through the air. Devotees, their bodies adorned with vibrant hues and sacred symbols, embark on a pilgrimage of faith. This is Thaipusam, a vibrant tableau of devotion, resilience, and spiritual triumph.

The tale of Murugan battling the asuras, particularly Surapadman, and liberating those oppressed, is at the heart of Thaipusam. The vel, a divine spear gifted by Goddess Parvati, played a pivotal role in Murugan’s triumph. The vel represents knowledge – broad in breadth, tapering to sharp awareness, and running deep in height, offering wisdom to overcome ignorance.

Devotees prepare for Thaipusam with a 48-day period of fasting, prayer, and purification. Their journey culminates in acts of penance, often involving the carrying of kavadis—ranging from a simple pot of milk atop the head to more elaborate wooden structures adorned with peacock (Lord Murugan’s vechicle) feathers and Murugan’s image. These kavadis, borne on shoulders or heads, represent a physical manifestation of gratitude, a testament to answered prayers and unwavering faith.

The tradition of kavadi-bearing traces back to the legend of Idumban, a fallen asura who became a disciple of Saint Agastya.

Idumban was tasked by his master, Saint Agastya, to relocate two hills (Shivagiri and Shaktigiri) to the south, Idumban obediently shouldered the colossal burden. Yet, during a rest near Palani Hill, he encountered a divine test orchestrated by Lord Murugan. Upon awakening, Idumban found himself unable to lift the two hills. As frustration consumed him, he noticed a child laughing in his direction. Driven by anger, Idumban engaged in a confrontation with the child, only to later realise the divine presence within the laughter—the child was none other than Lord Murugan. Overwhelmed with recognition, Idumban humbly sought forgiveness from the divine child.

Impressed by Idumban’s unwavering devotion, Murugan not only granted forgiveness but also accepted his request: Idumban became the first kavadi bearer, and Murugan pledged to fulfill the wishes of those who carried burdens akin to his own. This sacred covenant resonates through the ages, symbolising devotion, humility, and the granting of divine blessings during Thaipusam. The vel holds mystical significance, with devotees chanting ‘vel, vel,‘ ‘veera vel,‘ or ‘shakti vel‘ during Thaipusam.

Within this vibrant spectacle lies an invitation to witness the depths of human devotion, to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, and perhaps to discover a deeper connection with our own spiritual journeys.

Reference:

  • Sacred Structures: Artistic Renditions of Hindu Temples in Malaysia and Singapore, Krishna G. Rampal
  • Thaipusam in Malaysia: A Hindu Festival in the Tamil Diaspora, Carl Vadivella Belle
  • Thaipusam, Ramesh Ramakrishnam Iyer
  • Blog cover picture is credited to Alex Leong from ‘Celebrations & Nostalgic Moments’

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