Devotees witness the flag-hoisting cermony at Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: RAJESH N
Thousands of devotees participated in the flag-hoisting ceremony of Our Lady of Snows Basilica held here on Sunday that marked the commencement of the 444th annual feast of the shrine.The first day of the festival began with rosary at 4:30 a.m., followed by a series of Holy Masses under the Bishop of Thoothukudi RC diocese Most Rev. A. Stephen.Following the Holy Mass, Most. Rev. Stephen carried the festival flag in a procession around the basilica, accompanied by traditional music, and hoisted the flag. As the flag was raised, thousands of devotees chanted Ave Maria in unison.The ceremony was attended by Minister for Human Resources Management D. Sarathkumar, Fisheries Minister A. Srinath and Collector Vishu Mahajan. Fr. Starwin adorned the statue of the Blessed Holy Mother with a golden crown and other ornaments.On August 4, the car procession will be held on the shrine premises, and the final day of the celebrations on August 5 will be marked by Holy Mass by Most Rev. Stephen. In the evening, the car procession will be held along the streets. Published - July 26, 2026 08:05 pm IST
