Independent preacher Zamri Vinoth then chimed in with a claim that Hindu worshippers appeared to be possessed or drunk when carrying the kavadi, resulting in a police investigation.
FMT goes beyond the controversy to take a closer look at the meaning behind carrying the kavadi, exploring the practices, significance, and the faith it represents.
What is a kavadi?
The term “kavadi” comes from the Tamil word meaning “burden”, which symbolises the carrying of both physical and spiritual burdens as an act of penance or devotion to the Hindu deity Muruga during the Thaipusam festival.
Kavadis come in various shapes and sizes.
The typical kavadi is a wooden arch on a base decorated with peacock feathers and flowers and in which is placed a picture of Lord Muruga. Two pots filled with milk are hung at both ends of the base. The milk is poured on the statue of Lord Muruga upon reaching the temple.
Some devotees carry steel kavadis; and some also pierce their bodies with small hooks, spears, or needles as an additional act of devotion. Others carry the “paal kudam” or pot of milk on their heads.
Why do Hindus carry it?
Malaysia Hindu Sangam honorary general secretary S Vinayagamurthi explained that many Hindus carry the kavadi as a form of vow fulfillment often in return for prayers answered, blessings received, or to seek divine intervention for personal or family well-being.
Carrying the kavadi is a form of penance or self-purification which symbolises a devotion that transcends the physical body, with the devotee enduring discomfort, pain, or fatigue as a way of cleansing their soul and becoming more disciplined.
The act of carrying the kavadi is often done as part of a larger procession, which fosters a shared sense of faith, solidarity, and devotion among the participants.
How do kavadi bearers prepare?
Carrying the kavadi requires weeks of spiritual and physical preparation. It requires devotion, mental focus and physical conditioning, as it is a demanding act of faith.
This period of discipline, which often begins 48 days before Thaipusam, is seen as essential to purifying the body and mind before performing the sacred act of sacrifice and devotion.
During this time, devotees follow strict discipline, such as eating only vegetarian food or fast, remaining celibate, refraining from killing even an insect, speaking only positive words, sleeping on mats, controlling anger, and praying and meditating every day. They must also not smoke or consume alcohol or take drugs.
Are they in a trance?
One of the most striking aspects of the kavadi procession is the trance-like state many devotees enter. This altered state of consciousness is achieved through continuous chanting of Lord Muruga’s name accompanied by rhythmic drumming and devotional music.
Vinayagamurthi said some devotees undergo body piercings while in this altered state of consciousness, feeling little or no pain due to their deep spiritual connection.
Why the shouts of ‘Vel, Vel’?
The ‘Vel’ is a spear-like weapon carried by Lord Muruga. It is sharp and pointed at the tip, broad at its sides and deep/long at the handle.
The Vel represents knowledge, wisdom and willpower. It indicates that humans should constantly acquire knowledge and wisdom which must be sharp, broad and deep to face the challenges of life.
Repeating “Vel! Vel!” reminds devotees to constantly sharpen their mind – to have clarity of thought – so that they can progress successfully in life. It reminds them that this is the best weapon against one’s real enemies: the ego, ignorance, stupidity, selfishness, greed and laziness.
The entire process of kavadi carrying is to break bad habits and create a new and more spiritual way of thinking and living. - FMT
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