If you don’t know anything about Thaipusam, then let me tell you what I learned about it the other day

I am a very curious person, always wanting to learn new things and also find out about things around me. Especially when it comes to people and culture.

And this year I really wanted to find out more about Thaipusam. Maybe because there are more and more social media coverage every year that has made me very curious about it

So I texted my friend Siva, I know that he would definitely be going this year and I asked him to bring me along to Batu Caves

What an amazing experience and I learned so much new information

Thaipusam is celebrated in the month of Thai when the Pusam star is at its highest during the full moon 

It is to celebrate the day that Lord Murugan defeated the demon using the spear Vel

In Malaysia, the biggest celebration is in Penang and Batu Caves 

Around 2 million people were expected to come to Batu Caves. I was expecting chaos but to my surprise it was all very well organised 

They were a lot of people of course but everyone was very patient and respectful 

Many of them were wearing something yellow, and also carrying a milk pot on their head. Milk is a sacred offering to Lord Murugan, and is used to bathe the statue of Lord Murugan

The most amazing thing I saw last night was of course the kavadis. 

All very colourful and beautifully decorated. They are meant to look like peacock because peacock is the divine vehicle of Lord Murugan

I was in awe watching the strong men carrying the kavadi up the steps of Batu Caves. Can you imagine the strength and balance needed to manage the climb?

What an amazing experience . Thank you Siva for taking me along last night 

Now I understand my own country a little bit more better

Doktor Az

p/s are you a curious person?