Thoothukudi Collector pays homage to Veerapandiya Kattabomman

Thoothukudi District prepares for Veerapandiya Kattabomman Vizha with heightened security measures and curfew in place.

Thoothukudi District Collector K. Elambahavath on Friday paid homage to the statue of Veerapandiya Kattabomman in Panchalankurichi ahead of Veerapandiya Kattabomman Vizha (fest) celebrated annually on the last Friday of the Tamil month of Chithirai.

Veerapandiya Kattabomman, renowned for his valour and honour, fought against the British in the latter part of the 18th century. The Tamil Nadu government commemorates his legacy each year through this festival, during which his descendants, members of his clan and public pay respect to the statue of Veerapandiya Kattabomman.

In addition to the fest, special pujas have been organised at Veersakka Devi Amman Temple between May 8 and May 11, the ancestral deity of Kattabomman. Crowds of people have begun gathering for the temple festivities, prompting authorities to strengthen security across the district to prevent untoward incidents. A curfew has also been enforced under the section 163(1) of the Bharatiya Nayaya Suraksha Sanhita 2023 act from 6 p.m. on May 8 (Thursday) to 6 a.m. on May 11 (Sunday).

According to this order, public gatherings of five or more persons have been prohibited during this period. The people participating in the temple fest from Thoothukudi and other districts have been strictly instructed not to carry dangerous and objectionable weapons such as swords, knives, machetes etc,.

Thoothukudi District Superintendent of Police Albert John further advised the people to obtain prior permission from the authorities for any other processions and festivities.