Return of the natives: Tamil Nadu fishing village erupts in joy

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.