JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA, February 13, 2012 (the new age): Thousands of devotees observed Kavady prayer at a colorful ceremony in Lenasia, Johannesburg, on Sunday.
Kavady is a Hindu prayer that has been observed for many centuries by millions of people throughout the world in dedication to Lord Muruga. It is celebrated by temples all over the country, where devotees carry containers of milk from the grounds to the temple and this is offered on the murthi (statue) of Lord Muruga.
Several devotees pierced their bodies with pins containing various items (lime, fruit, flowers) while others pulled a large chariot with hooks attached to the skin on their backs. Devotees do various things as penance, while seeking blessings of the Lord Muruga.