Thai Poosam

Rituals

On the Thaipusam day, large number of devotees marches towards Murugan temples in procession carrying ‘chhatris’ (Kavadi). They proceed with dancing, beating drums and chanting ‘vel vel shakti vel’, the sound of which electrifies the procession. Some devotees pierce their tongue and cheek with ‘vel’ (small lances). Some insert hooks in their body. To show their dedication and devotion towards Lord Muruga devotees go to extrems.

Devotees offer fruits and yellow or orange colored flowers to Lord Muruga. They wear yellow or orange colored dress. These two colors are identified with Muruga. Some people carry pots of milk on their head.