Today, my wife and I stood on a crowded street, curious and captivated, as a Tamil religious ceremony unfolded before us. The air was alive with energy, rhythmic drumming, and the scent of incense drifting through the warm evening breeze.
What We Saw
Men, some shirtless and barefoot, were walking with what looked like metal hooks pierced into their backs. Some were attached to ropes and being gently pulled. Others were rolling slowly, right on the road. There was music, loud drumming, and people dancing with such intensity it felt like they were in a trance.
We even saw people dressed as gods, like Hanuman and others, walking with the processions and blessing people. It was overwhelming but beautiful at the same time.
What It All Means
After watching for a while, we started asking around. Locals kindly explained that this was part of a religious offering, known as Kavadi . It’s mostly done for Lord Murugan , a god worshipped deeply by Tamil Hindus. The hooks, the rolling, and even the dancing are done as acts of devotion or to fulfill a personal vow.
People might do this after praying for something important like healing, safe travel, or blessings for their family. Once that prayer is answered, they offer their body and effort in return. It’s a deeply spiritual and emotional experience for them.
How It Felt to Watch
Watching this ceremony was intense. It wasn’t just a performance or festival. You could feel how serious and sacred it was. The men weren’t in pain like we expected. Many were calm, focused, and supported by family and temple caretakers.
We felt both amazed and respectful. It’s not something you see every day. But even though it was new to us, the emotion behind it felt very human and relatable.
Why People Do It
We learned that before doing this ritual, people often fast or go through days of prayer and purification. Then, they take part in the ceremony, sometimes with pierced skin or carrying heavy decorated structures on their shoulders.
The rolling on the road is also a way of showing devotion. It looks extreme, but for the people doing it, it’s a meaningful spiritual journey.
What We Noticed
One thing we both noticed was how peaceful everything felt, despite all the noise and energy. The people doing these intense acts weren’t trying to shock anyone. They were completely in the moment, doing something important to them and their beliefs.
It was a mix of faith, tradition, and community. Even strangers helped guide and protect the participants.
If You’re a Visitor
If you ever get to see a Tamil ceremony like this, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Stay respectful. This is not a performance, it’s a religious event.
Don’t interrupt or get too close, especially to those in trance or during piercing.
Take photos only if it feels appropriate and ask someone first.
Try to learn what’s going on from locals. They’re usually happy to share.
Don’t judge. What looks extreme to one culture might be deeply beautiful to another.
❓ Quick FAQs
Q: Why do people pierce their skin or pull weights?
To show devotion or to thank the god for a blessing they received.
Q: Isn’t it painful?
It can be, but many people enter a trance state and don’t feel much. They also prepare themselves mentally and spiritually.
Q: Is this common in Sri Lanka?
Yes, especially in Tamil Hindu communities during certain temple festivals.
🌟 Our Final Thoughts
This was one of those rare moments that stays with you. It wasn’t about religion or rituals, it was about people connecting with something greater than themselves. The dedication, the emotion, and the strength we saw in their faces were powerful.
We left feeling grateful to have witnessed something so personal and meaningful. If you ever get a chance to see something like this, take it. You’ll learn so much more than just culture, you’ll understand a little more about people and the depth of faith.
