The annual fire-walking festival at Punnaicholai Pathirakaliamman Temple in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, saw a remarkable turnout this year with significant participation from foreign devotees, including children. This event, recognized as one of the largest fire-walking ceremonies in Sri Lanka, attracted visitors from various parts of the world.
The festival, known for its deep religious significance, commenced with the traditional opening of the temple’s sacred doors last Sunday. Throughout the day, the temple grounds were filled with special prayers and the goddess’s sea bathing ritual, highlighting the rich ceremonial heritage of the region.
The fire-walking ceremony was the focal point of the day. Foreign participants, alongside local devotees, walked across the bed of hot coals, fulfilling their vows in a profound display of faith and devotion.
The presence of foreign children, accompanied by their parents and supported by local community members, added a touching and heartwarming aspect to the ritual. These young participants, some experiencing Sri Lankan culture for the first time, exhibited remarkable courage and were met with cheers of encouragement from the crowd.
