Thousands of Indian Devotees Embark on Maritime Pilgrimage to Katchatheevu
In a significant religious event, nearly 4,000 pilgrims from India set sail on a 14-nautical-mile voyage to participate in the annual festival at St Antony's Shrine on Katchatheevu island. The journey commenced on Friday morning, with devotees traveling from Rameswaram fishing jetty to attend the festivities scheduled for February 27 and 28.
Detailed Pilgrim Demographics and Journey Logistics
Official registration data reveals that a total of 3,996 pilgrims registered for this sacred expedition. The group comprised 3,033 men, 726 women, and 150 children, representing a diverse cross-section of devotees. For their maritime journey, pilgrims utilized a fleet of 90 mechanized boats and 26 traditional country boats, ensuring safe passage across the waters.
Security and safety measures were paramount, with officials from the Indian Coast Guard and customs department conducting thorough checks before departure. All pilgrims were provided with life jackets as a precautionary measure, highlighting the organized nature of this annual pilgrimage.
Festival Schedule and Religious Observances
The festival program is meticulously planned, beginning with a flag hoisting ceremony on the evening of February 27. This will be followed by a solemn Holy Mass, marking the official commencement of religious observances. Additional rituals include:
- The Way of the Cross, a significant Christian devotional practice
- A grand chariot procession featuring the statue of St Antony around the islet
- The festival will culminate with another grand Holy Mass on Saturday, February 28
Historical and Cultural Significance of St Antony's Shrine
St Antony's Shrine holds deep historical and cultural importance, having been constructed in 1913. For over a century, this sacred site has served as a focal point for devotion among fishing communities from both India and Sri Lanka. Fishermen traditionally worship St Antony for multiple blessings:
- Abundant catches during fishing expeditions
- Protection from natural calamities while navigating the high seas
- Safe passage during maritime journeys
This annual pilgrimage not only represents religious devotion but also underscores the enduring cultural connections between fishing communities across national boundaries. The journey to Katchatheevu continues to be a testament to faith, tradition, and maritime heritage in the region.
