Thaipoosam Cavadee 1er Thai

According to legend of Idumban, the act of devotion of the Cavadee symbolizes the symbolic act of the latter, who carried the peaks of two mountains hanging on a stick carried on his shoulders and met on his way, the god Muruga who after a few events granted his blessing. The Mauritian devotees in turn carry out the pilgrimage carrying the Cavadee on their shoulders, pierced by silver needles to pay homage to him and also with the aim of obtaining in their turn his divine grace.

On the day of the festival, devotees go to the temple early in the morning and then prepare to go to a local river to have their face, tongue and body pierced with “Vels” (small needles in the shape of spears) as a sign of penance. The needles are used to materialize their vow of silence which they will observe during the procession.

Then they go to the Kovil (the temple) carrying the cavadee, made of wood and bamboo, decorated with leaves, flowers and holy images, for prayers and offerings to the god Muruga. Once arrived at the temple, after the offerings to Muruga, the devotees attend prayers, then comes the time for sharing.

Customarily, the vegetarian dish, Arusuvai, including different flavors (sour, sweet, salty, sour, bitter), is offered, to remind that life is made of ups and downs but that together they can very well form a joyful harmony