Retiree to carry kavadi for 34th time, vows to keep going

For this Thaipusam, K Vasagam is set to conquer the 272 steps in Batu Caves again. The 65-year-old retiree, who drives a taxi, will be carrying a “kavadi” for the 34th time.

“I have my cheeks pierced and also my back. I was doing this from the very beginning.

“I did not ask anybody about what to do. It was something that just struck my mind. I just prayed and it came to me,” he told Malaysiakini.

Since Vasagam is still fit and does not suffer from diabetes or hypertension, which are common among those in his age group, he plans to continue the ritual for as long as possible.

The former media firm employee has been carrying a “kavadi” since the age of 24 when he was grappling with health and career issues.

After things took a turn for the better, Vasagam resolved not to stop.

"I used to always feel unwell. I also did not have a good job. So, I wanted to take part in the ritual. Coincidentally, after that, I got a good job at an architectural firm,” he added.

Kavadi range

The only years Vasagam did not carry the “kavadi” were when there was a death in the family and during the Covid-19 restrictions.

Thaipusam is celebrated to commemorate the victory of the Hindu god Murugan over the demon Surapadman using a divine spear, known as “vel”.

Kavadis can range from a simple pole balancing two containers with offerings, a simple wooden structure decorated with peacock feathers carrying pots of milk or more elaborate ones that involve body piercings.

New parents can also be seen carrying their babies in cradles tied to sugarcane stalks.

Preparations

Speaking about the preparations for carrying “kavadi”, Vasagam said he would maintain a strict vegetarian diet for 21 days leading to Thaipusam.

“You have to do your morning and evening prayers. You cannot sleep on a bed.

“You must sleep on the floor with no blankets. No air conditioning. You lay a ‘vesti’ (traditional Indian garment) on the prayer room floor and sleep with no pillow,” he explained.

As for the piercings, Vasagam said there was no sign of blood during the process and after.

“There is none. You can't even see the holes where the piercings were after that, “he said.

On his vows, Vasagam said they are simple, revolving around good health and blessings for his family.

Vasagam said his wife and son would accompany him to Batu Caves when he carries the “kavadi”.

His son, who is now 25, has been carrying the “pal kudam” (clay pot with milk) since he was eight but has decided not to do so this year because of personal reasons.

Asked if his family had attempted to dissuade him from carrying the “kavadi” because of his advanced age, he replied: “No one disturbs me when it comes to my prayers.

“But I have people coming to me to teach them how to perform the prayers and rituals properly,” he added.