After two years straight of strict regulations because of the Covid-19 pandemic, religious festivals, such as Thaipusam were also not outside of its safety procedures to ensure the health and benefits of others. Held annually, last year's Thaipusam saw a dramatic difference in numbers and festivities compared to its predecessor years. For this year, regulations have lifted for the festival to return its loud and usual festive state, with hundreds of thousands of devotees coming to the temple at Batu Caves to fulfil their religious goals. 

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The festival, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan, is celebrated on the first full moon in the Tamil month of Thai, and this coincides with the auspicious Pusam star reaching its highest point in the celestial position. Many Hindus can be seen carrying ‘kavadi’ , which is a ceremonial sacrifice and offering in the form of a physical burden in order to implore Lord Murugan for either spiritual balance or aid in other things. This burden is enhanced by a form of dance as devotees make their way through their pilgrimage to the temple. 

 

Some of the most popular kavadis involves piercing of tongue, cheek and skin. Devotees may have heavy pots and fruits hanging from their bodies with hooks. 

By carrying the kavadi, it is believed that it helps them to surrender their sins – ego, anger, lust, greed and hatred.

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Kavadi  bearers is believed to enter into a trance-like state known as “arul vaku” with chanting and beats of the drum. This allows a sort of energy flow through their bodies which enable them to pierce their flesh without feeling much pain.

 

As a gesture of gratitude and devotion, ‘paal kudam’ or milk offerings are also done to pay homage to Lord Murugan.