After spending a couple of days following a devotee around between his home and various temple locations, we nearly became de-sensitized to the torture that he inflicted himself to. We could not help but admire the strength of his faith and dedication.
Some participants did have problems enduring the pain, especially when the crowds of people would push to see the parade, causing the metal skewers to further puncture the skin. Walking on fire is a difficult task to muster, but at least the pain only lingers for a short time. The parade lasts for hours, and several miles of walking with these painful human floats must be endured.
The roots of their culture, the Vedic records, are alive in the streets on this grand occasion. On temple walls, floats, and paintings, the Gods of ancient India are appearing to celebrate Thaipusam.
