Preserving the Art of Making Peacock Kavadi: A Father-Son Legacy
A Tradition of Devotion
K Sevaraja, a 55-year-old property agent and part-time kavadi artisan, has dedicated his life to crafting peacock kavadi to meet the demand for Thaipusam. The kavadi is a semi-circular, arch-like structure that rests on a Hindu devotee’s shoulders, carried as an act of devotion and gratitude to Lord Murugan for the fulfilment of prayers or vows.
A Legacy of Peacock Kavadi
Sevaraja learned the art of making peacock kavadi from his late father 26 years ago. Today, the legacy continues with his son Satish Raj, 26, as well as a small team of workers committed to preserving this heritage. “From the beginning, I’ve focused solely on making kavadi adorned with peacock feathers, in line with tradition. The peacock kavadi is more natural and visually striking compared to others,” Sevaraja said.
A Team Effort
Sevaraja primarily offers kavadi for rent, especially to devotees at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves, Selangor. To honour the spiritual significance of making the kavadi, Sevaraja, Satish Raj, and their helpers observe a strict vegetarian diet throughout the production process. Sevaraja follows it for 48 days, and his son for 108 days. “We also abstain from any intoxicants during this period,” Sevaraja added.
Preserving the Craft
Despite waning interest among younger generations in pursuing the craft, Satish Raj said he is determined to preserve the art and his family tradition. Key materials used in making kavadi include rattan, rubber, styrofoam, wooden plates, peacock feathers, and metal rods, as well as decorative elements. Each component is carefully selected to ensure the kavadi is both durable and aesthetically captivating.
Enhancing the Design
To enhance the vibrancy of the peacock kavadi, Satish Raj’s team fixes LED lights onto the structures, which make them particularly striking at night. According to Sevaraja, kavadi rentals this year range between RM800 and RM1,300 each, depending on the size and design. He received over 40 orders for rubber-based peacock kavadi and more than 20 orders for styrofoam peacock kavadi this year. Some of the orders come from overseas, including South Africa and Mauritius.
Conclusion
The art of making peacock kavadi is a testament to the dedication and commitment of K Sevaraja and his son Satish Raj. Their passion for preserving this heritage is a beacon of hope for the continuation of this tradition. As the demand for Thaipusam grows, so does the importance of preserving the art of making peacock kavadi.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the peacock in Hinduism?
A: In Hinduism, the peacock is regarded as the divine vehicle of Lord Murugan.
Q: What materials are used to make the peacock kavadi?
A: Key materials used in making kavadi include rattan, rubber, styrofoam, wooden plates, peacock feathers, and metal rods, as well as decorative elements.
Q: How long does it take to make a peacock kavadi?
A: The time it takes to make a peacock kavadi varies depending on the size and design. However, Sevaraja and his team typically take around 2-3 weeks to complete a single piece.
Q: Are there any specific dietary restrictions for making the peacock kavadi?
A: Yes, Sevaraja and his team observe a strict vegetarian diet throughout the production process.