Thaipusam
தைப்பூசம் (Taippūcam)
Thaipusam is celebrated by the Indian worldwide. Mostly in India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. We the Malaysians are unique as we are living in a multiracial country- Mainly the Malays, Chinese, & Indians. What is the relevant Thaipusam with Malaysians? PUBLIC HOLIDAY! No! It is not just about the holiday. How many of you truly understand what Thaipusam is all about?
Thaipusam is celebrated on the full moon day (10th Tamil month of Thai- January/February). It is a celebration dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan (youngest son of Shiva and his wife Parvati). Devotees will get in trance. Some are being carried by their siblings, wives, husbands or other relatives. Many men (and also the occasional woman) have themselves shaved at one of the many barbers- you will see many devotees walking around bald headed.
One of the aspects that make Thaipusam so fascinating is the way that devotees pay penance to Lord Murugan. Some pierce their skin, tongue or cheeks with Vel skewers. There could also be a man hanging on multiple hooks while being pushed forward. Some had many hooks in their backs with colourful decorations. A few times we noticed that some where blessed by others; which led to great excitement with the devotee expressed by dancing unconsciously and waving arms wildly.
Do have a look on the videos of last year's Thaipusam:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DU3ZfkvGBY
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