THAIPUSAM

THAIPUSAM - Hindu Festival - A festival for the brave

Today for the second time in Singapore I witnessed the celebrations in Little India for Thaipusam. It is quite confronting at first. A parade of Indian men, some with hooks and skewers pierced through their skin, other with large elaborate displays (Cage like) held up over around their body by hundreds of meter long needles. It is hard not to stare with these large torturous displayed masked by vibrant colours and masses of people, celebrating and chanting. So naturally I had to know more:

'Thaipusam actually celebrates the victory of the Hindu deity Subramanya over the forces of darkness. On this occasion, Hindus show the sincerity of their faith. It is a time for making and fulfilling vows. Devotees pray for divine help and make vows. When their prayers are answered, they fulfil their vows.

To do this, a devotee would pierce his cheeks, tongue, face or other suitable body parts with sharp objects. Next his friends or relatives load a kavadi on his shoulder. Finally, in a trance-like manner, he goes on a 4km journey of faith.' - http://www.etour-singapore.com/thaipusam-singapore.html

These men and women will fast for minimum of three days before the ceremony. This only adding to the torture and lack of energy and strength. Might I add, whilst the quoted information states that they walk 4km, in Singapore (and yes, I admit with my limited experience) those wearing the Kavadi, do not just walk down the street. Some are able to dance, jump, whistle blow and the Kavadi moves, spins and bounces with them all to the beat of their traditional music accompanying. My personal favorites are the Kavadi's with LED lights streaming down their design, lighting up the streets at night while they dance for their Gods.  

It was quite remarkable watching the strength and courage of these men and women, walking the streets to celebrate such a  strong belief. I can tell you I was definitely moved by the sight. Not all the brave demonstrators look capable. At 10pm last year, as I watched from my safe comfortable couch in Starbucks, A man collapsed in the parade with the Kavadi falling down on top of him. A swarm of people surrounded him as he slowly stood back up, showing his strength was coming to an end. He no longer could carry the burden and while mentally he was strong enough, physically his body was rejecting the torture. His friends and family held him up as he continued to walk and pass my sight views. My heart broke for him but at the same time the sheer endurance he showed was inspiring. Not that I have plans of pinning myself down (Pun intended :p - In all seriousness, I couldn't do it) but it just showed what human nature is capable of enduring should you put your mind to it.

This festival shows not only a test of courage but the power of endurance. 

I will never cease to be fascinated by the rainbow of culture that surrounds me in Singapore and the great depths people go to for religion.