PORT BLAIR, ANDAMANS, INDIA, January 10, 2005: In an unusual sight across the tsunami-ravaged coast of Andaman and Nicobar islands, groups of women are offering prayers to pacify the sea God. It is a sad picture of women, many of whom have lost their near and dear ones, worshipping and wishing an end to the wrath of the waves. “The waves have devoured whatever we had. Prayers are our last resort to save the lives of those who survived,” says Padmavati. The ritual involves pouring fresh water from a brass spot into the sea. Women chant mantras, offer flowers and sit quietly for hours together near the coast. Known to be a customary Thursday ritual, the prayers have now become a daily affair. In Haddow area of Port Blair that faces the Chatham coast, every household has women of all ages thronging the shore more than once a day to offer prayers. Kneeling down on their knees and bending over to touch the coast, the women put tilaks (red mark) on everyone’s forehead, including the onlookers.
A daily summary of world news for Hindus and non-Hindus alike