Thaipoosam Kavadi reverently celebrated in Seychelles |26 January 2024
Yesterday morning, the Hindu community in Seychelles observed Thaipoosam Kavadi with great enthusiasm. Devotees assembled at the Seychelles Hindu Temple on Quincy Street, Mahé, early in the morning to prepare for the spiritual part.
Thaipoosam Kavadi is a solemn celebration that signifies sacrifice and devotion, as well as the purification of the heart and soul. The festival pays homage to the God Muruga, who triumphed over demons. It marks the culmination of a ten-day mental and spiritual preparation involving an intensive fast.
The chairperson of the Seychelles Hindu Kovil Sangam, Kundasamy Pillay, stated that, “this year's celebration includes 21 alagukavadi, 1 poottukavadi, 1 chariot kavadi, approximately 50 milk slings, and 21 general kavadis. Around 150 devotees, including men, women, and children, participated in the activities”.
The procession, starting at around 9:45am from the Seychelles Hindu Temple, went through Royal Street, Harrison Street, Lodge Street, and ended on Quincy Street, under the supervision of the department of Land Transport and Seychelles Police. After the procession, accompanied by music, dance and celebrations, the devotees shared milk in the traditional Kavadi ceremony.
The procession proceeded smoothly, and a communal feast organised by Seychelles Hindu Kovil Sangam was served to all participants and passersby at the Seychelles Hindu Temple.
The festival's legend revolves around Sage Agastya's disciples, Idumban and Murugan. Sage Agastya assigned Idumban the task of establishing two hills in South India, each bearing the names of Shakti, Parvathi, or Shiva. Carrying the hills on a "cavadee," Idumban faced challenges, and Murugan intervened to lighten his burden. The festival commemorates their combat and the subsequent resurrection of Idumban as Murugan's devoted disciple.
On this day, devotees offering a load on a kavadi to Murugan anticipate receiving his blessings. The kavadi is often adorned with colourful decorations, symbolising hills or burdens. Some devotees, unable to bear heavy loads, carry sacred items like coconut, honey, turmeric, milk pots, and flower garlands. Many also engage in penitential acts, such as self-piercing with small spears and walking on smoldering coal.
Devotees commence the ten-day fast with a temple ceremony, abstaining from all food and drink, consuming only water, and resting throughout the day. To enhance their spiritual development, they participate in prayer and abstinence.
The vibrant colours of the kavadis attracted tourists and Seychellois alike, making it a noteworthy event.
The accompanying photos show highlights of this culturally rich celebration.
Vidya Gappy
Photos: Joena Meme
