Thaipusam Countdown

When is Thaipusam?

Thaipusam is a Hindu festival that is celebrated on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai (usually January or February in the Gregorian calendar). The exact date of Thaipusam changes every year.

How do people celebrate Thaipusam?

Thaipusam is celebrated in a variety of ways, but the most distinctive form of celebration is the carrying of Kavadi, which are decorated structures that are carried by devotees as a form of penance or thanksgiving.

The Kavadi can range from simple wooden arches to elaborate structures that are several feet high, and they are often decorated with flowers, peacock feathers, and other colorful adornments. Participants may also perform various acts of devotion or penance, such as piercing their skin with needles or hooks, or fasting for several days leading up to the festival. The festival is also marked by processions, the playing of traditional music, and other cultural and religious activities.

Who Celebrates Celebrate Thaipusam?

Thaipusam is primarily celebrated by Tamil Hindus, especially those of South Indian descent. The festival has its roots in Tamil Nadu, India, but it is also celebrated in other countries with significant Tamil Hindu populations, such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka.

In recent years, Thaipusam has become increasingly popular among non-Tamil Hindus as well, and it is now considered a major festival in the Hindu calendar.

What do you do on Thaipusam?

On Thaipusam, devotees may participate in a variety of religious and cultural activities, depending on their personal beliefs and traditions. Some common activities include:

• Carrying a Kavadi: This is a decorated structure that is carried by devotees as a form of penance or thanksgiving.
• Piercing the skin: Some devotees perform acts of penance by piercing their skin with hooks or needles, which are attached to their Kavadi or other objects.
• Fasting: Many devotees fast for several days leading up to the festival as a form of spiritual purification.
• Processions: Thaipusam is marked by processions in which devotees carry their Kavadi, sing devotional songs, and dance to traditional music.
• Offerings and prayers: Devotees may offer prayers, perform puja (worship), and make offerings to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war and victory, who is honored during the festival.

These are just a few examples of the types of activities that people may participate in on Thaipusam. The specific rituals and activities can vary greatly depending on the individual and their community.

Is Thaipusam considered a Holy Day?

Yes, Thaipusam is considered a holy day by Tamil Hindus, especially those who worship Lord Murugan. The festival is a time for devotees to come together in devotion and celebration, and it is seen as an opportunity to attain blessings and merit through acts of penance and worship.

Thaipusam is considered one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar, and for many Tamil Hindus, it is a time for spiritual reflection and renewal.