Some of you may remember my post from last year about Thaipusam. I found it so fascinating I went back again this year. 

Here's an explanation of what Thaipusam is. 

"Devotees prepare for the celebration by cleansing themselves through prayer and fasting approximately 48 days before Thaipusam. Kavadi-bearers have to perform elaborate ceremonies at the time of assuming the kavadi and at the time of offering it to Murugan. The kavadi-bearer observes celibacy and take only pure, Satvik food, once a day, while continuously thinking of God.

On the day of the festival, devotees will shave their heads and undertake a pilgrimage along a set route while engaging in various acts of devotion, notably carrying various types of kavadi (burdens). At its simplest this may entail carrying a pot of milk, but mortification of the flesh by piercing the skin, tongue or cheeks with vel skewers is also common.

The simplest kavadi is a semicircular decorated canopy supported by a wooden rod that is carried on the shoulders, to the temple. In addition, some have a small spear through their tongue, or a spear through the cheeks. The spear pierced through his tongue or cheeks reminds him constantly of Lord Murugan. It also prevents him from speaking and gives great power of endurance.On Thaipusam day, hundreds of devotees offer prayers either by piercing their body with spikes and lemon, pulling a chariot or carrying Kavadis from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple. The devotees then offer their prayers and fulfill their vows. The Vel (holy spear) in the sanctum is showered with milk continuously for hours." 

This guy is actually pulling the cart behind him by hooks that are in his back.

Here you can see the hooks that are pulling the cart and these limes are attached to his back by hooks. 

These pots are filled with milk that is carried to the temple. 

This spear is actually pierced through the cheeks. 

One spear is pierced through the cheeks and one is pierced through the tongue.

This guy is also pulling a cart by hooks in his back. 

Taking  a much needed rest on the route. 

This guy really needed a rest. 

I took this shot because I wanted to show the religious diversity in Singapore. The Tamil celebration of Thaipusam goes right past a Christian Church.

Along the route to the temple.

Notice the gold leaves around his eyes, they are pins stuck into his face.