Thaipusam, also known as Thai Poosam, will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This significant Hindu festival falls in the Tamil Solar month of Thai, which corresponds to the Makara month in other Hindu calendars.
What is Thaipusam?
Thaipusam is a sacred festival widely celebrated by the Tamil community across the globe. The word “Thaipusam” combines "Thai" (the Tamil month) and "Poosam," which is the name of a star that is at its highest point during this festival.
ALSO READ: Lakhs of devotees visit Murugan temples across Tamil Nadu on Thaipoosam
The festival marks the day when Goddess Parvati presented Lord Murugan (Lord Kartikeya) with a divine spear, known as the Vel, to help him defeat the demon Soorapadam. This event symbolises the victory of good over evil and the power of faith and devotion.
Thaipusam 2025 Date and Timings
| Event | Date and Time |
| Thai Poosam | Tuesday, February 11, 2025 |
| Poosam Nakshathram Begins | 06:01 PM on Feb 10, 2025 |
| Poosam Nakshathram Ends | 06:34 PM on Feb 11, 2025 |
Thaipusam is celebrated with great devotion not only in Tamil Nadu but also in countries with significant Tamil communities, such as:
- Malaysia: The Batu Caves temple in Malaysia is renowned for its grand Thaipusam celebrations, attracting millions of devotees.
- Singapore and Mauritius: The festival is observed with equal fervour, featuring vibrant processions and spiritual practices.
Even in regions with smaller Tamil populations, the festival is an integral part of cultural and religious observances.
Rituals and Traditions of Thaipusam
Thaipusam is marked by a variety of rituals that express devotion and gratitude to Lord Murugan. Here are some key practices:
- Kavadi Attam (Burden Dance): Devotees carry a Kavadi, a semi-circular structure decorated with peacock feathers, flowers, and offerings. This is carried as an act of penance and devotion to Lord Murugan.
- Piercings and Sacrifices: Some devotees observe extreme rituals like body piercings with spears or hooks to signify surrender and seek blessings.
- Milk Pot Offering (Paal Kudam): Carrying pots of milk as offerings to the deity is a common practice. This signifies purity and devotion.
- Temple Visits: Devotees flock to Murugan temples, where special prayers, chants, and rituals are conducted.
Thaipusam holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. It symbolises:
- Devotion and Faith: The festival emphasises surrendering one's burdens and hardships to the divine.
- Victory of Good over Evil: The story of Lord Murugan defeating Soorapadam inspires devotees to overcome challenges in life.
- Unity in Diversity: Thaipusam celebrations bring together people from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the richness of Tamil culture.
The auspicious timing for observing Thaipusam 2025 begins with the rise of the Poosam star on the evening of February 11, 2025, at 6:01 PM. Devotees are encouraged to perform rituals and prayers during this time for maximum spiritual benefit.
Thaipusam is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of devotion, faith, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Whether celebrated in the vibrant streets of Tamil Nadu or in the serene temples of Malaysia and Singapore, the spirit of Thaipusam remains the same dedication to Lord Murugan and his divine guidance.
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