High Commissioner of India H.E. Mr Ashok K. Kantha attended the annual feast of revered St Antony´s church at Kachchativu Island in the early morning of 24 February. For the first time High Commissioner of India has visited Kachchativu. The High Commissioner was accompanied by the Consul General of India in Jaffna Mr. V. Mahalingam.

During his visit, the High Commissioner also interacted with the priests, nuns and pilgrims from India who conveyed their gratitude for organizing this traditional annual pilgrimage which has been observed since 1905. 2814 Indian devotees who came to the Island in 94 boats participated with great enthusiasm and piety in this annual feast, which is held in honour of the patron saint of sea-farers, Rev. St. Antony. Rev. Bishop Dr. Thomas Sovuntharanayagam conducted the mass at Kachchativu.

Necessary arrangements for food, water, sanitation and security were made by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence in coordination with local government officials and the Jaffna diocese. The High Commission of India and the Consulate General of India had also deployed officials to assist the pilgrims. The High Commissioner expressed his sincere appreciation to the concerned authorities for the excellent arrangements.

(Pics of the visit could be seen at the High Commission of India Facebook Page at the link https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.341206515996533.80335.124877397629447&type=3)