Thoothukudi Basilica Feast Ends with Grand Car Procession

Swift Summary

• The 443rd annual feast of Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi concluded on Tuesday with a grand car procession.
• The 11-day-long festivity began with a flag-hoisting ceremony on July 26 and concluded with special prayers at night on Tuesday.
• Daily rituals included Holy Mass at 5 a.m., afternoon prayers, novena, and benediction, attracting thousands of devotees.
• On the 10th day, Thoothukudi Bishop Most Rev. Stephen Antony led vespers and the festal mass; additional holy masses were conducted starting from early morning on Tuesday.
• The car festival procession passed thru six streets before concluding at the church where prayers were held at around 10 p.m.
• Over 1,000 police personnel managed security arrangements and traffic diversions around the venue to ensure smooth operations during festivities.
• A local holiday was declared by the district management for Tuesday due to the festivities.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The accomplished culmination of Our Lady of Snows BasilicaS annual feast highlights both its religious importance for thousands in Thoothukudi and its ability to unite diverse communities in celebration even after centuries (443 years). Such events not only reinforce regional cultural identity but also pose logistical challenges that require cooperation between religious institutions, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies – exemplified by effective management this year through significant police deployment ensuring safety and order during crowded processions. Declaring a local holiday for such occasions seems reasonable given its widespread participation and impact on daily life in affected areas.

For read more: The Hindu