INDIA, January 28, 2021 (Times Of India by Sudarshan Ramabadran, above photo from Batu Caves, Malaysia in a normal year): India’s culture has been a vital aspect of the civilizational state’s public diplomacy orientation. The diversity of India’s culture is discernible in over 640 districts in the country. But what has astounded people, observers and analysts is that India’s culture has organically permeated beyond her geographical boundaries and has united humanity for a shared purpose at large. While on one hand yoga has certainly attained a global platform in and through United Nations’ affirmation and Ayurveda (India’s traditional medicine system) is also seeing tremendous acceptance globally, on the other India’s festivals have been a monumental highlight for bringing people together and celebrating shared values and culture; something that has been understudied and perhaps even not considered for analysis.
Thaipusam is one such example. From Southeast Asia to Latin America to the Caribbean islands to Africa, one Indian festival that unites Tamils globally is Thaipusam which is celebrated in honor of philosopher-warrior, Lord Muruga. If one were to ask where one can find one of the most unmissable experiences of the festival, then Malaysia it is. Batu Caves in Malaysia ensures one of the most reverberating experiences. The festival in the country is spearheaded by the vibrant Tamil community and is witnessed by over a million people. While Malaysia is indeed a significant pole, it is interesting to note that Thaipusam is a public holiday in countries such as Sri Lanka and Mauritius.
Much more at “source” above.