A really odd festival, known as Thaipusam, is popular in Singapore and Malaysia, but nowhere near as enthusiastically as it is celebrated in South India. Originating as a Hindu festival, celebrated by the Tamil community ,on the day of a full moon, in either January or February. Thaipuism literally means Star, at the highest point. This bizarre celebration marks the day Goddess Parvati gave a spear to Murugan, that he might defeat the evil demon Soorapadman. Things begin with devotees cleaning themselves by having a bath, and washing thoroughly.