The Hindu Festival of Thaipusam
One of the most unique and shocking festivals of the world takes place in Malaysia during the month of January. Kuala Lumpur hosts the largest gathering of people celebrating the Hindu Festival known as Thaipusam. This is a must see event for anyone that is visiting the country at that time of year.
Thaipusam takes place at the sacred Batu Caves located near the city. 1.5 Million people travel to Kuala Lumper to worship. This is not your everyday prayer festival however, these devotees pierce their flesh with spikes and sharp hooks. They weigh the hooks with fruit to add to the pain and sometimes pull heavy chariots by using only the hooks in their backs with the reigns attached. Some people are less extreme and choose to carry offerings of milk upon their heads while others pack on more weight by carrying heavy cages on their shoulders known as Kevadi’s. It is a spectacle for all to see.
There are different reasons as to why people choose attend Thaipusam. Some are seeking help with an answer to their prayers, others are looking to make amends for a past sin while others are giving thanks. It is not an easy task to prepare for their ordeal, they must fast, meditate and become mentally prepared to take on the pain and suffering. And what suffering they face.
Before the pilgrims arrive at the Caves, they convene in Kuala Lumper. Gathering at the Hindu Temple, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the event begins at midnight. The crowd walks with a calm energy for 15 km following the idol of Lord Murugan. It is placed in an ornate silver Chariot lit up with bulbs of light.
It is a spectacular sight. A neon lit midway and Ferris wheel are set up at the base of the high cliffs. Vendors line the path of the procession as thousands of people make their way to the steps of the Batu Cave. The modern lights are a strange contrast to the ancient ceremony. Drums beat as people chant Vel Vel in the never ending chain of bodies.
The celebration continues through to the next day and worshippers are committed as ever, but the intense sun makes the task seem more impossible. Some succumb to the heat and collapse under the weight of their Kevadi. Others sway in a daze as friends try to soothe their pierced cheeks by pouring water over their heads. Miraculously however, very few people seem to be in pain or discomfort.
Once they make their way up the slow climb they find relief in the cool caves. Monkeys fight for bananas overhead, as people have their hooks removed one by one. Priests stuff hot ash into their wounds and not a drop of blood spills from the body.
You are free to walk around and watch as people are awakened from their trance. The transformation is surprising. One minute they are in another world with an intensity in their eyes while the next they are walking and casually talking with friends. They have survived Thaipusam and are blessed with a lucky year ahead.
All that is left is the procession back to Kuala Lumpur where all will be put away for another year. This years devotees can go home knowing that they achieved and incredible human accomplishment.
Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an adventure travel couple from Canada. They have explored over 30 countries on 5 continents. Each new adventure takes them to remote corners of the earth where they paddle hike and trek their way around the globe. Visit their website http://tinyurl.com/qwl97h for more tips, advice and information on travel and adventure locations. To see their photo gallery check out picturetheplanet.com
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