Why do Tamils of Hindu faith pierce their skin in Thaipusam? Do these inhuman acts give pleasure to their gods? How can their god be happy by seeing their child in pain?

 

Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

How come you are so confident that it’s for god this is done and how can you conclude these are inhuman and blasting gods for that? Religiously we also have poo midippu ( walking on fire ) during Amman pandigai in AADI month. Not all beliefs are for god but these are some prayers which we promise that’s been there for ages.

Again, coming to the question the very concept of ALAGU KUTHUDAL (piercing spear in body or tongue) was a reknown exercise that was also done as a part of erasing people’s fear in a fight. In olden says where war was fought on spears, our ancestors used this ritual as a way to bear the pain of a spear hits you. In this way the young soldiers know what is the pain caused by an arrow or spear and they become MENTALLY confident in a war. This is the age old practice. Lord Murugan who was here in the hills of Palani had a VEL or spear as his weapon. People always worship him and take pride in this piercing just as a part of thanks giving. Not expecting something and then doing this ritual.

SARVA SHAKTI KAATTERI PEEDAM, No. 97, JALAN HANG KASTURI 6, TAMAN SKUDAI BARU, 81300 SKUDAI, JOHOR BAHRU, JOHOR, MALAYSIA YESTERDAY MORNING (19 JANUARY 2024).

Our Payyan family member visited and offered his prayers at the Sarva Shakti Kaatteri Peedam yesterday morning at No. 97, Jalan Hang Kasturi 6, Taman Skudai Baru, 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor.

But his friends who accompanied our Payyan family member also performed their "mandi Bunga"(a Yogic Ritual Bath) which is most common among the devotees who visit this Kovil.

Photos of the visit:

- photos taken by Mr. C.K. Kannan

FRIDAY MORNING ALANGARAM AT THE SRI RAJA RAJESWARY TEMPLE, AMPANG, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA ON 19TH JANUARY, 2024.

 The photos from this morning's prayers:-

- photos courtesy of Mr. Subhas Kannan

Who is the strongest Lord Murugan?

 

In Hindu mythology, Lord Murugan is revered as one of the most powerful and formidable gods, known for his courage, strength, and valor. However, it is not usually said that one form of Lord Murugan is more powerful than another. Each form of Lord Murugan represents a different aspect of his personality and divine powers, and they are all considered to be equally important and powerful.

That being said, Lord Murugan is often depicted in his six-faced form, known as Shanmukha or Arumugam, which is considered to be one of his most powerful and auspicious forms. Shanmukha represents the six aspects of Murugan's personality and is believed to have the power to overcome obstacles, dispel negativity, and promote spiritual growth. He is often depicted with six faces, twelve arms, and a peacock as his vehicle, and is worshipped by devotees seeking protection, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.

It's important to note that the concept of "power" in Hindu mythology is not necessarily based on physical strength or dominance, but rather on spiritual and divine qualities such as wisdom, compassion, and devotion. Lord Murugan is revered as a powerful and beloved deity, who is worshipped for his ability to protect, guide, and uplift his devotees.

Thai Pongal, a time to give thanks for the harvest season, and a promise of new beginnings, joy, and gratitude

 

This week, Tamils in Malaysia and around the world are celebrating Thai Pongal, a time to give thanks for the harvest season, and a promise of new beginnings, joy, and gratitude. Many families will share Pongal, a sweet dish made with rice, milk, and raw cane sugar.

Significance of Pongal Celebrations

 

Pongal is one of the most important and major festivals for Tamilians. Find out the significance of Pongal festival.

Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated enthusiastically by Tamils all over the world. Tamils all across the country and globe gear up to celebrate this festival which actually lasts for four days. The various rituals of Pongal are carried out with great fervour and gaiety. It is important to know the significance and meaning behind the various rituals of Pongal.

How is Pongal Celebrated?

The festival of Pongal falls on the first day of the new Tamil month, Thai. This festival which lasts for four days is similar to Thanksgiving which is celebrated in America. Each of the four days has a unique and important significance.

Bhogi Pongal

Bhogi Pongal is the day preceding the day of Pongal. On this day, people clean their homes and discard unwanted items. Homes are painted and decorated. People light a bonfire outside their homes and burn the old stuff. People want to get rid of the old and focus on the new. People also burn old clothes and other materials. People like to buy new vessels, etc. It signifies that you are forgetting the old and welcoming the new month of Thai.

Thai Pongal

This is the first day of new Tamil month, Thai and people celebrate it by preparing ‘Pongal’ which is a sweet dish made of rice, jaggery and other ingredients such as milk, cashew-nuts, raisins, etc. It is a very delicious dish enjoyed by all members of the household. People decorate the courtyard of their homes by drawing beautiful Kolams (Rangolis). Designs are made using rice flour and bordered with red clay. People also offer prayers to Surya, the Sun God.

Mattu Pongal

The third day is dedicated to the cattle which help the farmers in various ways. The word ‘Mattu’ in Tamil means cattle. People pray to the cows, bulls and other farm animals on this day as a way of giving thanks. These animals have a very big role to play in a farmer’s life. They are bathed and adorned with flower garlands. People tie multi-coloured beads and bells around the neck of these animals and serve them ‘Pongal’. People apply vermillion tikkas on their forehead. Jallikattu – a bull festival is held in some parts of Tamil Nadu on this day.

Kaanum Pongal

This is the last day of Pongal festival. On this day, people meet their relatives and friends and celebrate by flocking to the beaches to enjoy themselves. Some people also head to theme parks or go for picnics to relax and have fun. People exchange gifts and have a good time. They attend traditional dance performances which are accompanied by music and song. On this day, different varieties of rice are prepared for birds to feast on.

Pongal Rituals

Sugar-cane is a must as part of Pongal rituals. Sale of long, juicy sugar-canes goes up every year during Pongal festival. People buy new clothes on this day. The pot in which the sweet dish, ‘Pongal’ is being prepared is decorated beautifully. Pieces of turmeric and ginger are tied around the pot. As per rituals, the milk is allowed to boil and spill over while preparing the dish. When the milk boils and bubbles out of the vessel, people shout in chorus – ‘Pongalo Pongal’. People also believe that the beginning of the new month, Thai will bring happiness and new opportunities will come. It will solve problems in the family.

Pongal is one of the most awaited festivals for Tamilians. Pongal is an ancient festival but it is celebrated with excitement and zeal even today. Apart from the villages, even Tamilians living in modern cities celebrate it with joy. Even though it is a very old festival, the rituals and celebrations remain the same even today without external influences. - https://www.indiaparenting.com/

THIS MORNING THAI PONGGAL FESTIVAL AT THE SRI RAJA RAJESWARY TEMPLE, AMPANG, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA ON 15TH JANUARY, 2024.

 The photos and videos from this morning's prayers:-

- photos and videos courtesy of Mr. Subhas Kannan.