singapore is rich with culture this time of year.
in addition to chinese new year, it's the month of the hindu holiday, thaipusam. i was so intrigued with the piercings and devotion last year that i went again at 6 am this year to catch the end of the all-night celebration.
my friend lindsay is much braver than i am, and shouldered her way through the crowds to a great spot for us to observe the craziness. people walking into the temple with their offerings were at the end of their physical journey of sacrifice--some were collapsing from exhaustion, some were chanting and muttering to rise above the pain of needles piercing their bodies, and some grunted each step as they wore shoes with nails that stuck into their feet as they walked.
these men would dance as they entered the temple, making the feathers and things adorning that metal cage move too. their family and friends would cheer them on, helping them stand if they faltered. i am so fascinated by hinduism.
in our au naturale glory
No comments:
Post a Comment