LifeByRamL

    

It is customary in several Hindu families to shave the heads of their newborn and little ones before they attain a certain age. This is usually done in a Temple.      

Thaipusam provides an auspicious occasion for headshaving. It is a family affair, that is followed by religious prayer/ceremony and a feast.

   

Headshaving for little ones is a difficult task - a task that requires a skilled barber who can handle kids. The infants are made to sit in the family elder's lap (generally the Father).  Several infants are shocked and tend to be non cooperative. Most of them cry in disbelief throughout. There are some, who are simply stoic and don't care a thing about what's happening to their head. Interesting ones cry while sleeping or realize a bit late and then start crying. Very few are extremely co-operative.

Photographers are a welcome distraction for parents to ensure the goings are smooth. One gets to see a mixture of emotions - stoic silence , shock, disbelief , don't care attitude, fear/pain and a sense of betrayal (by the parents!).

Series of images depict various emotions and expressions as I saw it at Sri Thandayudhapani Temple  in Singapore during Thaipusam on 27th Jan 2013.