Thaipusam, Singapore - Heroes

A tired smile after completing the procession.

After completing the procession, the Kavadi carriers remove the hooks and spikes and rub ash into the wounds to prevent bleeding. There is a first aid tent next to the area where the devotees remove their kavadis. I was photographing near the first aid tent for a couple of hours, but the only people I saw asking for first aid were tourists or pedestrians suffering from heatstroke. I didn't see any kavadi carriers requiring first aid. I didn't see any bleeding either after the hooks were removed. How do the carriers manage to carry their heavy kavadis, some with metal hooks through their skin, for four kilometers under the broiling sun? From watching the procession closely this year, here are my thoughts:

• They are mentally prepared for the ordeal. The devotees have have fasted, prayed and followed a strict vegetarian diet during the Thaipusam month. This preparation must be invaluable in building up the mental toughness required for the task.
• No one does this alone. Each kavadi carrier has a support group of friends and family who follow along with the carrier during the procession. The group will sing and chant to keep the spirits of the carrier up. The group will even physically support the carrier if the burden gets too much along the path.
• They are powerfully motivated to complete the journey. The devotees believe that carrying the kavadi as a fulfillment of a vow will result in having their wishes granted. This faith in the possibility of having the heart's desire granted must be a powerful driving force when thing get tough along the road.

Giving thanks after the procession.