Earlier this year I ventured down to Little India here in Singapore to watch the Thaipusam festival.

This Hindu festival focusses on faith, endurance and penance. Hindus give thanks to their god Lord Murugan and go to different lengths to demonstrate their devotion….some were simply carrying pots of milk on their heads. More dramatically others were pierced with skewers through their arms, tongues and cheeks and some were even carrying fruit attached to their bodies with hooks.

The most devout were carrying huge, heavy elaborate metal frameworks which were attached to their bodies with chains and hooks. These last worshippers were accompanied by groups of younger hindus playing instruments, singing and cheering.

It’s a truly fascinating festival with a great atmosphere and well worth photographing. I shall certainly be heading down to Little India again for Thaipusam 2013.