Sri Maha Muneswarar 32nd Annual Festival (Thiruvilla) at Brickfields

As a Malaysian, I am ashamed to admit that I don’t know much about Hindu festivals – all I know is Thaipusam (marks Lord Murugan’s birthday) and Deepavali (the Festival of Lights). But … but … hey whoa, there seems to be some sort of Hindu festivals or celebrations often enough. This website here lists down all the Hindu festivals and oh my, ain’t it a long, loooooooong list? Now that I know that it is a super duper long list, I do feel better.

It has been said that Hindus have a holiday for every day of the year, but even that may be an understatement! Exactly how many Hindu festivals are celebrated is not known, but one scholar of Hinduism has listed more than a thousand different Hindu festivals.

(Source: http://www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/holidays)

 

Two weekends ago, bf and I went “jalan jalan cari makan” (sightseeing looking for food) at Brickfields, the public-transportation way. Walking towards Vishal Food & Catering, our intended destination, we chanced upon a festival at Jalan Scott. Bf immediately hurried forward … that’s the amazing thing about NOT driving, and why we love independent travel!

It was the 5th March 2017 on that day – so that means it’s the 32nd Annual festival (Thiruvilla), which I know nothing about. I tried looking up information, but found nothing. But anyway, after much searching, I have put two and two together : it is an annual temple festival; thiruvilla = festival.

Anyone care to shed some light whether I’ve got it right / what this festival is all about?

Can you see the body pierced with hooks?

I read that in all processions, there is a main devotee, and he is decked out in flowers … so, I am assuming this is him.

“Urami melam” drummers accompany the procession.

Devotees approach the chariot, waiting for puja tray and perhaps, blessings?

If you’re interested, read more about the meaning of the Puja (prayers) offerings here.