Dundee devotees mark annual Kavady festival
The Kavady procession is seen as an outward demonstration of mass devotion to God as Lord Muruga
The colourful public Kavady Festival was held in Peacevale on Sunday morning. Devotees braved a boiling-hot summer sun to complete their vows, following weeks of fasting and prayer.
The festival occurs in the month of Thai (10th month on the Tamil calendar) and on the day when the full moon passes through the star ‘Pusam’.
This event, also called ‘Thai Poosam’, is one of the biggest festivals (on the South Indian calendar) in South Africa.
The Kavady prayer and penance is observed over 10 days by devotees.
Devotees have to abstain from alcohol, etc.
They also have to observe celibacy and maintain a vegetarian diet for the entire period.
. There are various reasons for carrying the Kavady, but the two main categories are to express thanks to Lord Muruga and ask for help in overcoming a particular problem.
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