These pictures were taken during an Indian festival in Penang. It is
Thaipusam, a state public holiday in Penang, Malaysia.
Thaipusam is celebrated by Hindus to mark the victory of Lord Subramaniam
over the demons. It is a symbolic of the victory of good over evil.
This festival begins with a grand procession of the silver chariot bearing
the jewel-studded statue of Lord Subramaniam from the Sri Mariamman Temple
in Queen Street to the Nattukkotai Temple in Waterfall Road. Throughout
the procession, devotees carry 'kavadis' that is steel arches with long
spikes and metal hooks that pierce the flesh.. They did this to fulfill
their vows and some dance their way barefooted along the routes. Sacrifices
such as milk, honey and fruits, among other things are carried by devotees
and presented at Lord Subramaniam's shrine.
