A significant gathering of over a thousand worshippers came together at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi to honor the Tamil Hindu festival of Thaipoosam. Devotees traveled from across Fiji to participate in this vibrant celebration, which included pulling carts and engaging in lively dance.
Thaipoosam, as explained by the Drik Panchang website, is a revered festival within the Tamil community that commemorates the moment when Parvati bestowed upon her son, Murugan, the God of War, a spear known as a Vel. This divine weapon enabled him to defeat the menacing demon Soorapadam.
Temple priest Mohan Gurukul elaborated on the significance of the festival, sharing that Soorapadam was a ghost responsible for harming both people and animals. The eight devils, in dire need, appealed to Murugan to eliminate this threat. After many attempts without success, it was only with the weapon gifted by his mother, Parvati, that Murugan triumphed over the villain.
Among the traditional rituals performed during Thaipoosam is the pouring of milk or water over the statue of Murugan, a practice symbolizing devotion and reverence.
This celebration not only reinforces the cultural heritage of the Tamil community in Fiji but also showcases the unity and spiritual fervor of the devotees, reminding all of the timeless struggles between good and evil, and the strength that faith can provide.
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