Poondi Basilica’s Annual Festival Concludes in Thanjavur
The annual festival at the Poondi Our Lady of Lourdes Basilica, widely known as Poondi Matha Kovil, officially concluded on May 15, 2026, in the Thanjavur district. The nine-day celebration began on May 6 with the hoisting of the holy flag and continued with Holy Masses during the 'nava naatkal' or novena period. A significant highlight occurred on the evening of May 14, when devotees pulled a chariot carrying the decorated idol of the Lady of Lourdes around the basilica premises. The final day, May 15, marked the ceremonial lowering of the holy flag, signaling the end of the festivities. Additionally, a Memorial Holy Mass was conducted in the morning to honor former Parish Priests V.S. Lurde Xavier and Royapper. The event drew believers who participated in the traditional rituals, reflecting the deep religious significance of the basilica in the region. This report from The Hindu captures the key chronological events of the festival's culmination, emphasizing both the liturgical proceedings and the community participation involved in the annual tradition.
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