Thaipusam 2026: Date, time, puja rituals and significance of Thai Poosam

Thai Pusam is the significant festival which is dedicated to honor Lord Kartikeya, the god of war, victory and wisdom. According to the Tamil Calendar, Thai Pusam is mainly celebrated on Full Moon day in the month of Thai. This year, Thai Pusam is going to be celebrated on February 1, 2026 that corresponds with the Pusam star in Tamil Calendar. Poosam Nakshathram Begins - February 1, 2026 - 01:34 AMPoosam Nakshathram Ends - February 1, 2026 - 11:58 PMThai Pusam is one of the most prominent Hindu festival which is mainly celebrated in South India. The day is dedicated to honor Lord Murugan, the commander of the deities. He is extremely powerful and known as warrior God. He is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that on this auspicious Goddess Parvati gave him the vel to win the battle from the dark forces and demons. This was given to him to conquer the demon Surapadma. This was the divine weapon given to him by Goddess Parvati or his mother to protect the whole world from the harm. The Vel is a symbol of light and wisdom use by Lord Kartikeya to get rid of evil forces and restore peace in the universe. Thai Pusam holds a deep spiritual significance for the devotees. This day is considered as the most powerful day, when devotees perform puja to Lord Murugan to receive his blessings, guidance and protection. They perform various spiritual activities such as purification, penance, self reflection. The day represents courage, power, and justice so people celebrate the victory of Lord Murugan over the demons and the day always remind people that good always triumphs. Devotees observe fast, visit temple, prepare different bhog prasad and other offerings to appease Lord Murugan. On the day of Thaipusam, the main ritual is performed and that is kavadi attam or burden dance. This is a unique dance form, which is performed to appease Lord Murugan. Body piercing is another powerful ritual happens in this day. In this ritual, devotees pierce their bodies with hooks, needles and even with Vel. The pain is an expression of devotion and penance. The day is considered as the most sacred day to perform various puja rituals in order to please Lord Murugan and they also observe strict fast to seek blessings of the Lord. They light oil diyas, offer prayers, make fruits offerings, flowers, coconuts and visit temple.