Intoxicated, possessed? Understanding the facts, not from a non-believer

Recently an Indian Muslim convert preacher described Hindus carrying kavadi as one who is intoxicated or possessed.

However is that the case?

In “Autobiography of a Yogi”, Paramahansa Yogananda describes the difference between possession and trance from a spiritual perspective.

“Possession is often seen as an external force overtaking an individual’s will, which can lead to a loss of self-control.

Yogananda highlights that true spiritual growth involves mastery over one’s mind and body, not yielding to outside influences.

This aligns with the Vedantic teachings that emphasize the importance of self-realization and control over the senses.

In the Upanishads, the ultimate goal is to transcend the material world and awaken to the true self.

On the other hand, a trance, particularly in the yogic tradition, can be a state of deep concentration and meditative absorption.

In this state, the individual remains conscious and aware, often gaining insights into higher realms of existence.

Unlike possession, which is typically associated with loss of control, trance in Vedanta and the Upanishads is a voluntary state that allows one to connect with the divine essence and realize the oneness of all.

While possession implies an involuntary loss of self, trance is a conscious, self-chosen path toward spiritual awakening.

It’s about deepening one’s connection with the universe and the divine, a concept central to Vedantic teachings.

Through meditation and discipline, one can attain the enlightened state of trance, without being subject to any external possession.

The Hindus are forbidden from any form of intoxication. Milk and coconuts are used extensively.

Devotees commonly carry milk in containers, known as palkudam (milk pots), as part of their offerings during the procession, especially in Batu Caves. Milk is considered a sacred offering to Lord Muruga, symbolizing purity and devotion.

Thousands of liters of milk are consumed or offered during Thaipusam.

While it is hard to get an exact figure, it is estimated that in large-scale celebrations like those at Batu Caves, tens of thousands of liters of milk are used for both religious offerings and consumption by participants and devotees.

The total volume can reach several hundred thousand liters over the course of the event.

The breaking of coconuts is an important ritual during Thaipusam. Devotees break coconuts as a symbol of humility and to seek blessings from Lord Muruga.

The coconuts are often smashed at the feet of the deity or at significant spots along the procession route.

Coconut are also consumed by devotees, either as a food offering or as part of the ritual. The pulp and water are consumed for their symbolic significance as a gift to the deity.

It is estimated that tens of thousands of coconuts are used during Thaipusam, especially at places like Batu Caves, where huge crowds gather. This number likely ranges from 50,000 to 100,000 coconuts or more, depending on the scale of the event.