S. Rubathessan in Katchatheevu
An unprecedented 13,000 devotees, including 4,000 Indian pilgrims, took part in yesterday’s annual St Anthony’s Feast on the Katchatheevu islet.
For the first time in decades, over 8,000 Sri Lankan devotees visited from across the country, including Negombo, Thalai Mannar, Kalpitiya, and the North. Hundreds waited for hours to board the limited commercial ferries, prompting the Navy to step in to transport the remaining devotees. A few, however, had to return home from Kurikkaatuvan jetty due to ferry shortages.
Typically, 4,000 pilgrims from each country take part, with Indian visitors following a special pass system recognising the centuries-old religious tradition, while respecting Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over the island.
During the packed morning mass, Vicar General of the Jaffna Diocese, Fr P. J. Jebaratnam, reiterated Sri Lanka’s sovereignty but stressed unity and reconciliation under St Anthony—the saint of millions of miracles. “Even though it belongs to Sri Lanka geographically, sacramentally and spiritually it belongs to all of us. This island embodies the spirit of St Anthony, and stands for unity, peace, and reconciliation,” he said.
Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda told the Sunday Times that the Navy, with other stakeholders, provided logistical, sanitary, and transport support despite the sudden surge in numbers, making the event successful and memorable. “If you ask me to rate the event from 1 to 10, I would say close to 10,” he said.
From Tamil Nadu, 3,996 devotees arrived on 92 mechanised bottom trawlers and 26 Naatu (‘vallam’) country boats. Though at least 5,000 Sri Lankan devotees were expected, over 9,000 attended, with some travelling on their fishing boats from faraway locations. (Courtesy- The Sunday Times)
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