Thangachimadam, a fishing village in Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, erupted in joy Friday when the five fishermen who escaped from the jaws of death in Sri Lanka reached home safely.
The five fishermen - Emerson, P. Augustus, R. Wilson, K. Prasath and J. Langlet - who were sentenced to death by a Sri Lankan court for smuggling drugs, were given a rousing reception when they reached their village after being released from the Sri Lankan jail following a presidential pardon.
Fire crackers were burst and drums were played to celebrate their safe homecoming after spending three years in a Sri Lankan jail.
"There are no words to describe seeing my family and friends after a long time," Emerson said. He was seeing his second son for the first time.
With tears of joy in their eyes, their family members hugged the freed fishermen.
The five fishermen addressed the gathering from a specially built stage.
They thanked the central and Tamil Nadu governments and also appreciated the efforts of their association leaders.
Many Tamil Nadu ministers were present at the venue.
The state government has announced financial assistance of Rs.3 lakh to each of the five fishermen.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
