Thaipusam, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, is known for its vibrant processions and acts of devotion. One of the most striking symbols of the celebration is the kavadi, a semi-circular arch-like structure carried by devotees as an expression of gratitude and penance. Among the various types of kavadi, the mayil or peacock kavadi stands out as a timeless emblem of the festival.
In Kajang, Selangor, K. Sevaraja, a 55-year-old property agent and part-time kavadi artisan, has dedicated his life to crafting peacock kavadi. With Thaipusam approaching on February 11, he and his small team are working tirelessly to meet the growing demand for these traditional structures.
Sevaraja's passion for kavadi-making was passed down from his late father, and for the past 26 years, he has upheld the tradition with unwavering dedication. His son, Satish Raj, 26, has joined him in preserving this sacred art, ensuring that their family's legacy continues for generations to come.
"From the beginning, I've focused solely on making kavadi adorned with peacock feathers because they represent the original tradition. The peacock is Lord Murugan's divine vehicle, making it an integral part of the kavadis design," Sevaraja shared.
The family primarily provides kavadi for rent, especially for devotees making their pilgrimage to the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves, Selangor. To honor the spiritual significance of their work, Sevaraja, his son, and their helpers adhere to a strict vegetarian diet throughout the production process. Sevaraja observes a vegetarian diet for 48 days, while Satish Raj extends his commitment to 108 days, ensuring that every kavadi is made with devotion and purity.
Creating a kavadi requires patience, skill, and the right materials. Most kavadi makers opt for rubber or styrofoam structures, but Satish Raj prefers rubber due to its durability. "The kavadi we make is sturdy. We add sponges so that it can rest on the devotees shoulders comfortably," he explained.
To enhance the visual appeal, the family incorporates LED lights into their designs, creating a mesmerizing effect, especially at night. The materials used include rattan, rubber, wooden plates, metal rods, and peacock feathers, carefully selected for durability and aesthetics.
This year, the rental price for a kavadi ranges from RM800 to RM1,300, depending on the size and design. The demand has been overwhelming, with over 40 orders for rubber-based peacock kavadi and more than 20 orders for styrofoam versions, including requests from international devotees in South Africa and Mauritius.
Despite a declining interest among younger generations in the craft of kavadi-making, Satish Raj remains committed to preserving this cultural heritage. He acknowledges the challenges but believes in keeping the tradition alive through dedication and innovation.
Adding to the effort, two electronics students from Institut Kemahiran Tinggi Belia Negara in Hulu Langat, Selangor, A. Manikandan and T. Dhenesh Raaj, both 21, have volunteered to assist in repairing damaged kavadi during their semester break. Their curiosity about the intricate craftsmanship led them to join Sevaraja's team, contributing to the preservation of this age-old tradition.
As Thaipusam approaches, the art of kavadi-making continues to thrive, thanks to artisans like Sevaraja and his son. Their dedication ensures that the peacock kavadi remains an enduring symbol of devotion, culture, and spirituality in the Hindu community.
Source: Bernama
