தைப்பூசம்
A festival of Lord Murugan; devotees carry the kavadi to fulfil vows of thanks.
Thaipusam honours Lord Murugan, the Tamil god of war and victory, on the day the Pusam star meets the full moon in the month of Thai (January–February). It recalls the vel — the divine spear his mother Parvati gave him to vanquish evil.
Devotees fulfil vows by carrying the kavadi, a decorated arched burden, often after weeks of fasting, walking to the temple in a trance of devotion. It is observed most spectacularly in Malaysia, Singapore and among the diaspora.
Upcoming festivals
Frequently asked questions
What is Thaipusam?
Thaipusam is a festival for Lord Murugan. He is the Tamil god of war and victory. On this day devotees keep their vows.
When is Thaipusam?
It falls in the Tamil month Thai, in January or February. It is the day the Pusam star meets the full moon.
Why do people celebrate Thaipusam?
The day recalls the vel, the spear his mother Parvati gave him to beat evil. People give thanks and keep promises to Murugan.
How is Thaipusam celebrated?
Many fast for weeks first. Then they carry the kavadi, a decorated arch, to the temple. It is very big in Malaysia, Singapore and among the diaspora.