Lord Muruga
Lord Muruga is the second son of Lord Siva and Goddess Parvati, brother of Lord Ganesha.
Muruga is primarily worshipped widely in Southern India, especially in Tamilnadu and by Tamil people throughout the world. In fact, he is referred to as the Tamil Kadavul (The Lord of the Tamil people).
Thai Poosam
"Thai Poosam" falls every year on the full moon day in the Tamil month "Thai" (January/February). On this day the full moon is in transit through the brightest star "Pusam ". This is a very auspicious day in the Tamil Calendar as it represents the day on which lord Muruga destroyed the demon Tarakasura, with His Vel, the weapon given to Him by Mother Parvati.
Thai Poosam is therefore one of the most auspicious days to make offerings to Lord Muruga.
Kavady
The Kavady prayer and penance is observed over 10 days by devotees. The flag which is raised on the first day marks the beginning of the 10 day strict fast and the observance of the Kavady festival. The flag also serves as a reminder that one should continue fasting and attend the obayams (prayers) held daily at the temple.
Carrying of the Kavady represents the carrying of the two hills of Shiva Giri and Sakthi Giri by Idumban, who became the first devotee of Lord Muruga, after being destroyed in battle, then revived and pardoned by Lord Muruga.
By carrying the Kavady devotees express thanks to Lord Muruga and/or ask Muruga for help in overcoming a particular obstacle.
Irrespective of the form of Kavady, the acceptance of the devotees milk by Lord Muruga, through Abishegam (Holy Bath), is acceptance of the devotees prayers.
**The Officials of the Laudium Tamil Association would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the large number of devotees who participated in the Festival over the ten days. Your patience on the final day to accommodate all to express their devotion to Lord Muruga in their own "special" way was most commendable. It was particularly encouraging to see the large number of youth involved over the period.
A special thank you to all who contributed so generously financially, goods and your valuable time, we remain indebted to you. May Lord Muruga shower you with his blessings, always.
The energies and vibrations felt over the period were certainly unsurpassed.
- Arogaraa
Part of the large crowd that attended the Kavady celebrations at the Sivan Alayam Temple in Laudium.
Kavady's ready to be carried, to express gratitude to Lord Muruga.
Murugan Devotee at the Laudium Sivan Alayam.