A large number of devotees take part in the car festival at Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit: RAJESH N
Thousands of devotees participated in the grand chariot procession of Our Lady of Snows Basilica through the streets of Thoothukudi on Wednesday, marking the highlight of the 444th annual festival.The annual festival began with a flag hosting ceremony on July 26. During the festival, special masses were held every day. On the 8th day of the festival, a eucharistic procession was held. On Tuesday, the eve of the feast, a solemn evening service was led by Bishop Most Rev. A. Stephen, followed by procession of the statue within the basilica premises.On the feast day on Wednesday, the grand procession of the statue of Our Lady of Snows commenced around 7 p.m. from the basilica premises. The decorated chariot carrying the statue was taken through major streets including St. Peter Street, Manal Street, Emperor Street, French Chapel Street, G.C. Road, V.E. Road and South Beach Road, before returning to the basilica.The procession drew thousands of devotees from different parts of the State as well as pilgrims from Sri Lanka and other countries.Ahead of the festival, elaborate security arrangements were made, including the deployment of 1,000 police personnel for security. The Thoothukudi Corporation made arrangements for drinking water and sanitation facilities for devotees. Published - August 05, 2026 08:40 pm IST
