Thaipusam 2026: Date, Kavadi Rituals, Murugan Legends & Global Celebrations

Thaipusam is a powerful Tamil Hindu festival celebrated on the Pournami (Full Moon) day in the Tamil month of Thai, when the Pushya (Pusam) Nakshatra is ascendant. It commemorates the divine moment when Goddess Parvati gifted the Vel (spear) to Lord Murugan to destroy the demon Soorapadman. The festival is a vibrant expression of devotion, penance, and purification, especially through the Kavadi ritual.

In 2026, Thaipusam falls on Sunday, February 1.

Significance

Vel Empowerment: Marks the day Murugan received the Vel from Parvati to defeat evil.
Idumban’s Devotion: Kavadi tradition originates from Idumban, disciple of Sage Agastya, who carried the first kavadi to Palani Hills.
Murugan’s Penance: Another legend links Thaipusam to Murugan’s penance after eavesdropping on Shiva-Parvati’s divine conversation.
Parvati’s Darshan: The day is also believed to be when Parvati appeared before Murugan, blessing his devotion.

Kavadi Rituals

Kavadi: Symbol of penance (prayaschittam), ranging from simple milk pots to elaborate structures with body piercings.
Idumban’s Kavadi: A wooden arch with two pots of milk, decorated with flowers and peacock feathers.
Modern Kavadi: May include vel piercings, tongue and cheek skewers, and chariot pulling with hooks.
Yellow Attire: Devotees wear yellow, symbolizing purity and devotion.

Preparations & Vrat

48-Day Fasting: Begins weeks before Thaipusam with celibacy, Satvik food, and daily prayers.
Head Tonsure: Devotees shave their heads as a mark of surrender.
Pilgrimage: Walk barefoot to Murugan temples, carrying kavadi or milk pots.
Trance & Chanting: Devotees enter spiritual trance with chants of “Vel Shakti Vel” and rhythmic drumming.