Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated in January or February annually
The carrying of the kavadi, which means, "sacrifice at every step".
The smaller, semi-circular kavadi is a steel or wooden frame with bars for support on the shoulders, normally decorated with flowers and peacock feathers
The larger ones with spikes can weigh as much as 40 kg and reach a height of four metres. Other forms of sacrifice include piercing silver pins through the cheek and tongue and pricking the body with hooks and spear-like needles.
The Male devotees who intend to perform the sacrifice are customarily required to observe strict physical and mental discipline.
Women and children devotees carry a pot of milk called a palkuddam