Without a Kavadi, what is Thaipusam? We used to see the joy and bliss of Thaipusam day at temples with so many distinct types of Kavadi carriers before this Covid-19 existed.
It is very important to offer Kavadi to Lord Murugan because it gives tranquilly and good luck. Lord Murugan is testing Lord Idumban’s dedication and responsibility towards his Guru, according to the story and purpose for taking the Kavadi to him.
The Kavadi carried by each devotee represents his or her burden, similar to the two hills brought by Lord Idumban. Lord Murugan is said to lighten the load of a devotee who carries a Kavadi.
It is considered extremely auspicious to carry a Kavadi to Lord Murugan shrines during Thaipusam. During Thaipusam, several types of Kavadi appear.
Let’s have a look at the many types of Kavadis offered;
1. Paal Kavadi
During Thaipusam, this type of Kavadi is the most popular Kavadi we encounter. It’s typically filled with fresh cow’s milk and taken to Lord Murugan’s shrine on one’s head. The milk will be used for prayers once the bearer arrives at the place.
2. Thol Kavadi
This Kavadi is made out of two bent, semi-circular pieces of wood and is adorned with flowers or peacock feathers, as the peacock represents Lord Murugan’s vehicle of transport. The Thol Kavadi is the sort of Kavadi that devotees traditionally carry on their shoulders. Because it is lightweight, you may even see children carrying this Thol Kavadi.
3. Alavu Kavadi
The Alavu Kavadi includes piercing the tongue or cheek with a spear, commonly known to as the Vel. The basic idea behind this sort of Kavadi is to keep the individual who is engrossed in the ritual from not speaking and to draw eternal endurance, energy, and attention towards Lord Murugan at that time.
4. Koodam Mulle Kavadi
Offerings to the god in the shape of little pots of milk or fruits (apples, oranges, lime) are attached to the hooks in Koodam Mulle Kavadi. The devotee’s body is subsequently pierced with these.
5. Mayil Kavadi
This is the most well-known Kavadi, and it is frequently seen during the Thaipusam celebration. Peacock feathers, flowers, and other colourful ornaments adorn the Kavadi beautifully. Mayil Kavadi’s parade is often admired by a lot of people.
6. Vette Kavadi
Vette Mulle is one of the most common kinds of Kavadi, in which the devotee’s body is pierced with hooks that are subsequently tied to rope lines. The rope is either dragged by another person (as a sort of penance) or is attached to a chariot.
7. Karumbu Kavadi
Parents who have been blessed with a child usually do Karambu Kavadi by carrying the baby with sugar cane poles to express their devotion.
However, whichever Kavadi the bearer picks serves as a test for the devotee, allowing them to demonstrate their commitment to their act of faith.
Even though many 6 out of 7 Kavadis will be unable to engage this year, may all Paal Kavadi carriers have a safe and pleasant journey to Lord Murugan.
Please remember to follow the SOPs that have been laid out.
