Kavadi attam
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A devotional dance in which pilgrims carry a decorated arch (kavadi) on their shoulders as an offering to Lord Murugan.
DevotionalWhere: Tamil Nadu, especially at Murugan shrines such as Palani and ThiruchendurOccasion: Thaipusam, Panguni Uthiram and other Murugan festivals
| Performed by | Devotees, mostly men, who have taken a vow |
|---|---|
| Costume | Saffron or yellow clothes; the kavadi is decorated with peacock feathers, flowers and cloth |
| Music and instruments | Drums, nadaswaram and devotional songs called kavadi chindu |
How it is performed
- Devotees prepare with a period of fasting and prayer.
- The kavadi, a wooden or bamboo arch on a pole, carries pots of milk or other offerings at its ends.
- Carrying it on their shoulders, devotees dance rhythmically to drums and songs as they walk to the temple.
- At the shrine the offerings are poured over the deity.
Significance
According to tradition, the custom recalls Idumban, who carried two hills on a pole for the sage Agastya and was blessed by Murugan at Palani. Carrying the kavadi is an act of thanks and devotion.