Devotees Confront Flames at Singapore’s Fire-Walking Festival

October 12, 2025

Singapore Celebrates Annual Theemithi Fire-Walking Festival

Singapore – approximately 4,000 devotees fearlessly walked barefoot across a scorching pit of hot coals on October 12th, as the revered annual Theemithi festival returned to the Sri Mariamman Temple.This stunning display of faith marks the culmination of over two months of dedicated prayers and sacred ceremonies that commenced in late July.

The ritual, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, showcases unwavering devotion and spiritual endurance. Leading the procession and the fire-walking ceremony itself was Sri Mariamman Temple’s chief priest, Venugopal Thirunavukarasu, who has served the temple community since 2019.

The Priest initiated the event shortly after 6:15 PM, following a vibrant 4-kilometer procession originating from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple on Serangoon Road, eventually arriving at South Bridge Road.

A Tradition of Faith and Family

Before the Priest, numerous male devotees bravely walked across the bed of intensely glowing embers, subsequently cooling their feet in a specially prepared pit filled with milk.Acting Minister for Culture, Community and youth, david neo, was present to observe this significant cultural event from the temple courtyard.

Among the participants was a remarkable father-son duo who have jointly taken part in the fire-walking ritual for over a decade. mr. M. Raveendran, 60, a long-time volunteer at sri Mariamman Temple for more than 30 years, expressed immense pride in witnessing his son carry forward this cherished family tradition. “Watching him grow into this role and carry forward the tradition has been truly inspiring,” he stated.

His son, R. Manoj Kumar, 31, recounted his initial nervousness, which dissipated upon focusing on his prayers. “But when I closed my eyes and focused on the prayers, all my fear vanished. Walking alongside my father in this sacred ritual since then has been a blessed experiance,” he shared.

Temple Leadership and increased Participation

Mr. Shekaran Krishnan, 59, who assumed the role of chairman at Sri Mariamman Temple in June 2024, also participated in the fire-walking for the first time, describing it as a profoundly “peaceful and fulfilling experience”. He noted adjustments made to enhance the event, including expanding the public viewing area to accommodate 350 spectators, a significant increase from the 300 seats available in 2024.

Notably, there was an estimated 15 percent increase in younger devotees participating in the 2025 festival, indicating a sustained interest among future generations.

Devotees crossing the fire pit at Sri Mariamman Temple during the annual theemithi vizha, or fire walking festival, on Oct 12.ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI

Readiness and Supporting Rituals

The meticulous preparation of the 5.5-meter-long and 2.5-meter-wide fire pit began early on October 12th.Around 9:00 AM, the pit was ignited using some 20,000 pieces of wild neem wood, selected for its slow and even burn, creating a consistent bed of glowing embers. Approximately 30 dedicated volunteers diligently maintained the pit, stirring the embers with long ladles and periodically splashing water to manage the intense heat.

Alongside the fire-walking, devotees engaged in other significant vows, including the paalkudam (milk pot offering), maavilakku (lighting of flour lamps), angaprathachanam (rolling in prayer around the temple), and kumbiduthandam (prostrating every few steps in devotion). These preceding rituals set the spiritual tone for the climactic fire-walking event.

Throughout the day, approximately 10,000 devotees were graciously served free meals at Sri Mariamman Temple.

The Historical Significance of Theemithi

The Theemithi festival, a tradition observed in Singapore for more than 150 years, reenacts key elements of the Hindu epic mahabharata. It powerfully symbolizes the fire trial endured by goddess Draupathi Amman to demonstrate her purity and unwavering devotion. The act of walking on fire is deeply regarded as an expression of faith, resilience, and gratitude.

Did You Know? The neem wood used in the fire pit is specifically chosen for its medicinal properties and its ability to burn at a consistent temperature, minimizing the risk of sudden flares.

Understanding the Roots of Theemithi

The Theemithi festival’s origins can be traced back to ancient India, with similar fire-walking rituals practiced across various regions. These rituals are frequently enough associated with specific deities and are believed to possess purifying and protective qualities.

In Singapore, the festival serves as a vibrant testament to the enduring cultural heritage of the Indian community. It brings together individuals from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and shared spirituality. The increase in younger participants highlights the community’s commitment to preserving this significant tradition for generations to come.

Pro Tip: If you plan to visit Sri Mariamman Temple during Theemithi, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and remember to dress respectfully.

Frequently Asked Questions about Theemithi

What are your thoughts on the enduring power of cultural traditions like Theemithi? Share your viewpoint in the comments below!

did you witness this incredible event? Share your experiences and photos with us!

What psychological factors might contribute to a devotee’s ability to walk across hot coals without sustaining burns?

The Theimithi Festival: A Tradition of Faith and resilience

The Theimithi festival, a vibrant and deeply spiritual event, sees devotees in singapore walking barefoot across a bed of hot coals. This annual spectacle,primarily observed by the Tamil community,is a powerful demonstration of faith,courage,and purification. The festival’s roots lie in ancient Hindu traditions, specifically linked to the goddess Draupadi, a central figure in the epic Mahabharata. Understanding the Theimithi ritual requires delving into its historical and religious context.

Historical Origins and Religious Meaning

The Theimithi festival commemorates Draupadi’s ordeal of walking through fire to prove her chastity. Devotees beleive that by participating in the fire walking ceremony, they are emulating Draupadi’s unwavering faith and are protected from harm by her divine grace.

* Draupadi’s Story: The Mahabharata narrates Draupadi’s humiliation and the subsequent challenge to prove her purity. The fire ordeal symbolizes her triumph over adversity.

* Purification Ritual: The act of walking on fire is seen as a purification ritual, burning away sins and negative energies.

* Demonstration of Faith: For devotees, successfully completing the fire walk is a testament to their devotion and a strengthening of their spiritual connection.

Readiness for the Theimithi Fire Walk

The days leading up to the fire walking festival are marked by rigorous preparation,both physical and spiritual.This isn’t a spontaneous act; its a culmination of weeks, even months, of dedication.

1. Fasting and Prayer: Devotees typically observe a strict fast and engage in intense prayer sessions in the weeks preceding the festival. This period of abstinence and devotion is crucial for mental and spiritual clarity.
2. Ritual Bathing: Before the fire walk, participants undergo ritual bathing in sacred waters, symbolizing purification and cleansing.
3. Blessings and Guidance: Experienced elders and priests provide guidance and blessings to the devotees, offering support and reassurance.
4. Coal Preparation: The coals used in the theimithi fire walk are traditionally made from specific types of wood, ensuring they burn evenly and maintain a consistent temperature. The process of preparing the coal bed is itself a sacred undertaking.

The Fire-Walking Process: A Step-by-Step Look

The actual fire walking event is a carefully orchestrated process, steeped in tradition and ritual. The atmosphere is charged with devotion and anticipation.

* The Coal Bed: The coal bed, typically around 3-5 meters long, is prepared several hours before the walk, allowing it to reach a glowing, intense heat. Temperatures can reach upwards of 800°F (427°C).

* Chanting and Procession: Devotees participate in a procession, chanting prayers and hymns as they approach the fire pit. this collective energy builds momentum and reinforces their faith.

* The Walk: Walking barefoot across the coals,devotees maintain a steady pace and focused mindset. The speed and concentration are believed to be key to avoiding injury.

* Post-Walk Rituals: After completing the walk, devotees often sprinkle water on their feet and perform further purification rituals.

Scientific Explanations and safety Considerations

While the Theimithi festival is rooted in faith, there have been attempts to understand the phenomenon from a scientific outlook.

* The Leidenfrost Effect: Some scientists suggest the Leidenfrost effect – where a layer of vapor forms between the foot and the hot surface – may play a role in protecting the devotees. Though, this description is debated.

* Mental Focus and Adrenaline: The intense mental focus and adrenaline rush experienced by the devotees are believed to contribute to their ability to withstand the heat.

* Safety Measures: While injuries are rare, organizers take precautions, including having medical personnel on standby and ensuring the coal bed is properly prepared. Theimithi safety is paramount.

The Theimithi Festival in Modern Singapore

The *Singapore Theim