• Thaipusam is held in the 10th month of the Tamil calendar (which falls between January and mid-February), which is known by the Tamils as “Thai”. The star known as “Pusam/Poosam” is at its highest point during the full moon in this month, hence the name of the festival.
• During Thaipusam, Hindu devotees fulfil their vows to show their gratitude to Lord Murugan, who represents bravery, power, virtue and beauty. Male devotees participating in the parade expose their chests and backs, and shoulder silver chariots known as kavadi, with steel spikes and chains attached to their bodies, before walking barefoot to the temple. Upon arrival at the temple, they put the kavadi in front of the altar of Lord Murugan to show their gratitude. Milk pots called pal kudam are primarily carried by female devotees. At the end of the procession, the milk will be poured over the figure of Lord Murugan as offerings.
• In Singapore, Thaipusam usually lasts for a full day. Devotees depart from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple along Serangoon Road and walk to the final destination, Sri Thendayuthapani Temple along Tank Road.

After 46 years, percussionists once again travelled with the devotees and played traditional Indian drums along the way during the parade, bringing a new atmosphere to Thaipusam. (Lianhe Zaobao, 22/1/2019)