Every year, the tiny barren island of Katchatheevu, located in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, becomes a centre of devotion and cultural unification. During this time, thousands of pilgrims from both nations come together at Saint Anthony’s Shrine for the annual Katchatheevu festival. This festival is deeply significant for all the pilgrims. It’s an event that transcends borders, history, and faith.
Katchatheevu Festival, A Celebration Of Faith, History, And Unity
Dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Anthony’s Shrine is a special place of worship that exists at the maritime crossroads of India and Sri Lanka. Saint Anthony is the patron saint of fishermen, and the shrine was built in 1905 to honour him by an Indian Catholic named Cini Kudachi, who belonged to the Ramnad Catholic Diocese. The church has served as a symbol of faith for over a century.
Even though Katchatheevu has been under Sri Lankan ownership since 1974, it remains just as important and sacred for Indian pilgrims. During the festival, they are granted special access without the requirement of a passport or visa. This annual pilgrimage has certainly strengthened the bond between Indian and Sri Lankan Catholics and fishermen. The tradition keeps alive an age-old unity between the two nations through faith.
This festival is held in February or March every year. Pilgrims from the coastal towns of Rameswaram, Thangachimadam, and Mandapam in Tamil Nadu travel across the sea to attend it. Thousands of devotees travel in country boats and cross the Palk Strait to reach this isolated island.
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A Grand Maritime Pilgrimage
When they arrive, they set up makeshift tents or sleep under the open sky, as there is no permanent shelter or food supply. St Anthony’s shrine is the only permanent structure on the entire island. However, the Sri Lankan Navy, which administers the island during the festival, ensures that electricity, drinking water, medical assistance, and security are provided for all devotees.
The festival generally starts with the flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by a holy mass conducted by priests from India and Sri Lanka. Next comes the Way of the Cross ritual, a reenactment of Christ’s journey to crucifixion. This is followed by the grand chariot procession, in which a decorated statue of Saint Anthony is taken around the island.
For all the Catholic pilgrims, attending mass at the shrine and lighting candles in memory of their loved ones is a truly special and spiritual experience. However, this festival doesn’t just involve Catholic pilgrims. In fact, Hindu pilgrims also partake in the festival and offer prayers to Lord Ram. This festival is certainly a rare moment of shared faith where religious and cultural boundaries seem to blur.
Even though the island lacks basic amenities, the festival is still a cherished tradition for all the pilgrims. During the festival, the pathway from the landing site to the church turns into a vibrant place where vendors can be seen selling Sri Lankan delicacies.
This festival truly reminds us that faith knows no borders and traditions can survive the tides of time.
Cover Image Courtesy: Amazing Lanka/Website
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