Thaipusam festival is celebrated in which of the following Indian states?

Tamil Nadu

The correct answer is Option (3) - Tamil Nadu

The Thaipusam festival is a significant Hindu celebration primarily observed in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Thaipusam is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Subramanya or Kartikeya, the Hindu god of war, victory, and wisdom. It is celebrated on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai (usually falls in January or February), hence the name "Thaipusam."

Thaipusam commemorates the occasion when Goddess Parvati presented Lord Murugan with a divine spear, or vel, to vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. During Thaipusam, devotees engage in various acts of devotion and penance to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan. The most prominent feature of the festival is the kavadi procession, where devotees carry ornately decorated structures (kavadis) adorned with flowers, peacock feathers, and other offerings, as a form of sacrifice and fulfillment of vows.

Many devotees also undergo acts of self-mortification, such as piercing their bodies with hooks and skewers or carrying pots of milk on their heads, as acts of penance and devotion. These acts are believed to demonstrate their dedication to Lord Murugan and to seek his divine blessings. Thaipusam is not only a religious festival but also a cultural celebration that brings communities together. It is marked by elaborate rituals, processions, music, dance, and the chanting of hymns in praise of Lord Murugan. The festival is an integral part of Tamil culture and heritage, deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality.

While Thaipusam is primarily celebrated in Tamil Nadu, it is also observed by Tamil Hindu communities in other parts of India and in countries with significant Tamil populations, such as Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, and Mauritius. Overall, Thaipusam is a vibrant and deeply meaningful festival that holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Murugan.