THE days are drawing near for the sacred Thaipoosam Kavady festival at the Clairwood Shree Soobramoniar temple on February 1.

Public relations officer of the temple, Sidney Govindsamy, described the festival as a significant event in the Hindu calendar.

Also read: Strength in faith and tradition: Hindu devotees celebrate Kavady festival

Govindsamy said the aim of the festival is to honour Lord Murugan, who symbolises wisdom, strength, and divine guidance.

“Thaipoosam is traditionally observed during the Tamil month of Thai, usually falling in January or early February. As part of the customary observance, the temple will commence the festival period with a flag hoisting ceremony on January 23, marking the start of a 10-day period of prayer, penance, and spiritual preparation leading up to the main kavady day,” said Govindsamy.

Govindsamy said kavady observance is a profound act of devotion whereby devotees carry ceremonial offerings as an expression of surrender, repentance, and faith.

The carrying of the kavady symbolises the burdens of life being offered to Lord Murugan.

“It is regarded as a means of spiritual purification, fostering self-discipline, endurance, and inner strength,” said Govindsamy.

The collective observance further promotes unity, community solidarity, and the preservation of Hindu cultural and religious heritage.

In the 10 days leading up to kavady, the temple will host daily bhajans, devotional services, and offer vegetarian meals to devotees that frequent the temple.

The Clairwood Shree Siva Soobramoniar Temple invites devotees and members of the broader community to participate in the 10-day observance and the main kavady celebrations.

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