Nearly 4,000 Pilgrims Sail to Katchatheevu for Annual St. Anthony's Festival

Nearly 4,000 pilgrims from India set sail from Rameswaram to Katchatheevu islet to participate in the annual two-day St. Anthony's Church festival on February 27-28. The fleet of 118 boats, including mechanised trawlers and country boats, underwent strict security checks requiring Aadhaar cards and police clearance. The festival features a flag-hoisting ceremony, 'Way of the Cross' procession, and a chariot festival with Sri Lankan Navy involvement. Tamil Nadu imposed a fishing ban to ensure safe passage, while Sri Lankan authorities arranged amenities for pilgrims.