Diving into Mauritian Festivals: Cavadee Thaipusam in Mauritius

Among the cultural festivities that illuminate the island, Cavadee Thaipusam, a Tamil celebration dedicated to the god Muruga, stands out for its spectacular nature, intense devotion, and captivating rituals. It is the perfect opportunity for everyone to immerse themselves in Tamil culture and learn more about the rites that enrich Mauritius.

The Origin of Cavadee Thaipusam

Cavadee Thaipusam has its roots in Hindu and Tamil mythology.

Thaipusam, the celestial gateway to Lord Muruga

Shiva the Destroyer is one of the primary Hindu deities, along with Brahma, the Creator, and Vishnu, the Protector. Shiva and his wife Parvati gave birth to Muruga, the God of War, also known as Murugan, Subramania, or Karttikeya.

Thaipusam takes place during Thai, the Tamil month that extends from mid-January to mid-February. On a day when the Pusam star shone brightly in the sky, Muruga received from his mother Parvati a lance called Vel, a weapon capable of dispelling darkness and ignorance. The day of Thaipusam has since been considered by Tamil Hindus as highly auspicious to receive the grace of Lord Muruga.

The Cavadee, Symbol of Devotion to Muruga

Tamil mythology narrates that, at the request of his master, Idumban had to move two hills to a new refuge in South India. To do so, the disciple hung the two hills at each end of a stick and connected them at the top with bamboo to stabilize them. The Cavadee was born. He then carried the hills on his shoulders and began his journey. Along the way, he encountered Lord Muruga disguised as a young boy who challenged him to test his devotion. Idumban had to lift the hills on which Lord Muruga was seated. Unable to meet the challenge, Idumban lost his life before being resurrected by the God of War. Thus, Idumban became the guardian of Muruga's temple and vowed that those who lifted the Cavadee and went to the temple would be blessed, and their wishes would be granted.

The Tamils of Mauritius, South India, and elsewhere now celebrate the god Muruga through a serie of rituals reminiscent of Idumban's adventures.

Observing the Cavadee Thaipusam Festival in Mauritius

After ten days of fasting dedicated to penance and prayers, the devotees of Lord Muruga go to a water point to perform the necessary ablutions for the rites. They bless their Cavadee and, for some, pierce their faces, tongues, and bodies with small lance-shaped needles reminiscent of Muruga's Vel. Others will prepare to pull larger Cavadees with hooks attached to their backs, symbolizing their penance and the vow of silence they will observe during their procession to the nearest temple.

Upon reaching the temple, devotees engage in further prayers and offerings before sharing a vegetarian meal served to all on banana leaves.

In Mauritius, Cavadee Thaipusam is a public holiday where everyone is invited to attend the festival. You will witness a ballet of colors, accompanied by traditional songs and dances, infused with an energy of devotion that transcends religious affiliations.

Take advantage of Cavadee to immerse yourself in the culture and spirituality of the Tamils of Mauritius.