Kochi: The world-renowned shrine of Our Lady of Good Health at Velankanni comes alive today as the annual feast celebrations commence with the traditional flag hoisting ceremony. Thousands of pilgrims from across India, particularly from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are expected to converge at the basilica to seek the intercession of the Mother of God.
The ceremonial hoisting of the flag will take place at 5:45 pm, led by Bishop Dr. Sahayraj of the Thanjavur Diocese. Following the ritual, devotees will join in the solemn Novena of the Mother, the Divine Liturgy, and the celebration of Holy Communion, marking the spiritual opening of the 10-day feast.
To ensure safety, District Collector Akash has issued strict orders prohibiting pilgrims from bathing in the sea for the entire duration of the feast, a precautionary measure taken every year due to the heavy influx of devotees and the risk of accidents along the coastal stretch.
Recognizing the surge of pilgrims traveling from Kerala, Southern Railway has introduced two special trains connecting Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram to Velankanni.
🔹 Train Details:
• 06061 Ernakulam Junction – Velankanni (September 3 & 10)
Departure: Ernakulam (11:50 pm), Kottayam (12:45 am), Changanassery (1:00 am) → Arrival at Velankanni (3:15 pm).
• 06062 Velankanni – Ernakulam Junction (September 4 & 11)
Departure: Velankanni (6:40 pm) → Changanassery (9:47 am, next day), Kottayam (10:04 am), Arrival at Ernakulam (11:55 am).
Pilgrims traveling from Thiruvananthapuram Central via Nagercoil will also benefit from the additional services arranged during the feast days. The annual Velankanni Basilica Feast is often referred to as the “Lourdes of the East” and attracts lakhs of devotees from different faiths, reflecting the shrine’s deep spiritual and cultural significance. With the flag going up today, the coastal town is expected to witness vibrant processions, continuous prayers, and a sea of pilgrims reaffirming faith and devotion.