Sharp spikes are pierced into the body of the kavadi bearer to support a steel altar. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Singapore's shophouses and commercial buildings make an unlikely backdrop for the Thaipusam celebrations. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Prayers and offerings are the most important step of the preparations for a kavadi bearer. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Piercing the devotee is a professional task handled by friends and family. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
An older devotee waits in the temple for the rest of his kavadi to be set up. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Joining the Thaipusam procession is a spiritual commitment and understanding of one's indebtedness to god. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Concerned loved ones crowd around as a kavadi bearer takes a break. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Families help to remove and pack the spikes at the end of the procession. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.
Crowds look on as a calm believer finishes his devotional practice. Photo by Taufiq Jaafar.