A large number of women from the fishing community gathered at Lawson’s Bay Beach in Pedajalaripeta here on Friday to offer prayers to the sea as part of their annual ritual, Gangamma Jathara, held in remembrance of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Fisherwomen perform puja with milk and turmeric at Pedajalaripeta in Visakhapatnam on Friday. | Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK
Carrying kalasas on their heads and chanting hymns in praise of the Sea Goddess Gangamma, women from various fishing localities across the city, dressed in traditional attire, made their way to the beach, accompanied by men playing drums and shehnais. They offered harathi to the sea, pouring water mixed with turmeric, kumkum and flowers into the waves. Some also sculpted idols of the deity with sand and performed special prayers.
“The Sea Goddess Gangamma is our source of livelihood. During the 2004 tsunami, many coastal cities were affected, but Vizag was spared due to her blessings. Every year, we perform this ritual to express our gratitude and seek her protection,” said fisherwoman Vasupalli Lalitha.
Another fisherman Yellaji said the community also prays for safe returns after fishing expeditions. “On this day, we offer our special delicacies to the goddess and avoid venturing into the sea,” he added.
