OVER a million Hindus gather at various temples across the country each year to celebrate Thaipusam. The name Thaipusam comes from Tamil, Thai meaning the tenth month in the Tamil calendar, and Pusam being the name of a star in the Cancer constellation. During the festival, the stars are said to shine the brightest. Legend has it that the god Shiva (his father) sent Murugan to help his devotees who were suffering from demons’ torture. He appeared in front of the devotees on a silver chariot with a golden spear. That is why Lord Murugan is known as the Hindu god of war and symbolises bravery, virtue, youth and power. Devotees seek blessings, fulfill vows and show their devotion and gratitude to this revered deity during the festival.
The Thaipusam festivities actually take place over three days.For believers, event preparations last a matter of weeks, both spiritually and physically. Devotees prepare themselves for the occasion by cleansing their bodies through fasting and abstinence. Usually they observe a vegetarian diet for a certain period of time, depending on their vows. It is important to be completely clean and devoted to be able to carry out their sacred missions without pain and suffering. Most of you are probably aware that devotees tend to wear yellow during Thaipusam. It is because yellow is Lord Murugan’s favourite colour, which is why the statue of Lord Murugan in Batu Caves is in yellow. Yellow is also associated with new beginnings, peace and happiness.
