Witnessed Something Frustrating at a Festival in Tamil Nadu

I went to my native place, Mettur, on Feb 11, where Thaipoosam was being celebrated. There was an Amman Kovil festival happening, and one morning, a ritual called Poo Mithithal (walking on fire) took place. From what I understand, people do this to prove something—I’m not exactly sure what. I don’t personally find these rituals encouraging, but I was just observing. Everything was fine until I saw a parent carrying his two kids and walking straight into the fire. That was already disturbing, but then more and more people started doing the same. Some women, while walking, suddenly started acting like saami (possessed by a deity), holding their children. People on both sides were ready to catch them if they lost control. But seriously, does this need to be done while holding children? I found it so frustrating. I just wanted to slap those people.