Nearly 4,000 Pilgrims Depart Rameswaram for Annual Katchatheevu Festival

Nearly 4,000 pilgrims from India set sail from Rameswaram to Katchatheevu islet for an annual two-day festival celebrating shared cultural and religious heritage with Sri Lanka. The procession includes a flag-hoisting ceremony, 'Way of the Cross,' and a chariot festival led by Sri Lankan Navy personnel. Strict security and verification measures are in place, with vessels escorted by the Indian Coast Guard. A fishing ban is enforced locally to ensure safe passage. The event concludes with a Special High Mass and flag lowering.