Thaipusam in Ambattur, Chennai, involves the Tamil community celebrating Lord Murugan’s victory over evil with devotion, carrying kavadis, fasting, and performing rituals, with local shops like those on Mounasamy Madam Road offering related items, highlighting the festival’s spiritual purification and penance, even in urban areas like Ambattur.
What is Thaipusam?
A Hindu festival for Lord Murugan, God of War, symbolizing good triumphing over evil.
Marked by devotees undertaking vows, fasting (sometimes 48 days), and carrying kavadis (burdens/offerings).
How it’s celebrated in Ambattur:
Local Focus: While grand events happen elsewhere (Palani, Batu Caves), Ambattur’s Tamil population observes the festival with prayers and rituals.
Spiritual Practices: Devotees focus on self-reflection, penance, and purification, often participating in milk pitcher processions or piercing rituals as vows.
Community Support: Family and friends join processions, chanting and offering support, even if not carrying a kavadi.