This was my first time attending Thaipusam in Singapore and I felt quite ashamed that it was only now, with a camera, and on assignment from school that propelled me to document this event.

It was a pretty intense experience watching all the devotees from all walks of life preparing, meditating and undertaking this ceremony. But I left with a greater understanding and a sense of pride in documenting an important event for my Hindu friends in Singapore.

Till next year.

The three days spent photographing this couple and the family were truly one of the best moments I’ve had in photography.

It made me realise that at the end of the day, a wedding is not simply just about the union of two, but a day where families and relatives get together to show their love for everyone.

Congratulations you two.

Photographs

Multimedia

I compiled a few photographs to celebrate the end of 2009 where I opened my eyes to the beauty of the world.

Hope 2010 will be better.

My best friend the filmmaker. I hardly got the chance to take a proper photograph of him and his true love – filmmaking.

Well now I do.

I wish him and his group and all the best in their final year project narrative film.

View his works and musings here.

Cukur Rambut
The Cukur Rambut or Hair Shaving ceremony is usually held on the same day as the Kenduri Doa Selamat. Hair shaving is not peculiar to the Malays. The Chinese and Hindus also carry out Hair Shaving as a symbol of cleansing.

Excerpt from: RIGHT AFTER BIRTH:An Exhibition Specially Commissioned for Singapore HeritageFest 2005

Tens to hundreds of Muslim women congregate at a mosque for the Tarawih prayers during the holy month of Ramadan. These special evening prayers are conducted during which long portions of the Qur’an are recited.

Although it is not compulsory for all Muslims to perform the prayers, they are highly encouraged to do so. It is best performed in a congregation at the mosques as it was practiced by Prophet Muhammad.

PDN’s 30 2009, James Pomerantz