A Hindu devotee, carrying a portable altar known as a "kavadi", has his tongue pierced with a metal spike as he prepares for the Thaipusam procession at the Sri Srivinasa Perumal Temple in Singapore January 22, 2008. Thaipusam, a Hindu festival observed on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Thai, is celebrated in honour of Lord Muruga. [Agencies]