Thaipusam is one of the most important festivals dedicated to Lord Muruga - also known as Skanda, Subramaniya and Kartikeya and Shanmukha. Thaipusam is held on Poosam star in the month of Thai (January – February). Here is a look at what to do on Thaipusam day?
On the Thaipusam day, large number of devotees head towards Murugan temples in procession carrying Kavadi.
Some devotees observe a fast on the day and they only eat the Prasadam from the temple.
The drumming and chanting of vel vel sakthi vel electrifies the procession and some start to dance.
Some devotees pierce their tongue and cheek with ‘vel’ (small lances.) Some insert hooks in their body and some use these hooks to pull heavy objects. On the day, devotees go to any length to display their devotion to Murugan. All these are performed for desire fulfillment or for desire fulfilled after offering prayers to Murugan
Some people carry pots of milk on their head to Murugan temple as an offering.
Murugan is one who unraveled the secret of OM for the welfare of mankind. As a child (Kumara Guru), he sat on the lap of his father Shiva and narrated the significance of AUM. Media gives importance to tongue piercing, processions and all those external things. Hindus should try to imbibe the great teachings of Muruga - only through the true knowledge of OM can there be happiness on earth.
Murugan also stands for courage and selflessness. He uprooted Adharma. We are to learn these qualities and should not tolerate any kind Adharma or evil.