Over 3,000 pilgrims return after attending St Antony's fest in Katchatheevu

Over 3,000 devotees who attended the annual St Antony's church festival in Katchatheevu islet off Sri Lanka, returned to the coastal town of Rameshwaram on Sunday.

The pilgrims had gone in 92 boats to attend the two-day festival, which began on February 20 after undergoing checks by police and customs officials, Fr Sagayaraj, coordinator of the pilgrimage, said.

About 4,500 persons from Sri Lanka and 3,000 pilgrims from India participated in the event.

The festival began with the flag-hoisting ceremony followed by 'Way of Cross' procession and after the annual feast, the pilgrims returned, he said. The pilgrims said they were treated well by Sri Lankan authorities and were given snacks and food during the festival. 

As per the 1974 and 1976 agreements, India had ceded the island of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka.