SATURDAY 26 JANUARY 2013 - THAIPUSAM DAY
In the Tamil month of Thai (January/February), on the day with Pusam star, Thaipusam festival takes place to commemorate the occasion when according to the puranas, Parvati gave to Murugan the "Vel" (spear) to vanquish the demon Soorapadman.
The spear simbolizes gnanam (knowledge) and the demon simbolizes the ignorance of one's own Self.
This festival is asociated with Subrahmania or Murugan. It is also considered to be a special day for the siddhas.
The festival is often celebrated by offering annadana. On that day, Sri Gnanananda Niketan offered annadana to the children and people of the nearby villages.
The festival is often celebrated by offering annadana. On that day, Sri Gnanananda Niketan offered annadana to the children and people of the nearby villages.
