Grand car procession begins at Vailankanni

Lakhs of devotees from all over the country thronged Vailankanni in the district today to witness the illuminated grand car procession at the famous shrine Basilica.
Prior to the car festival, a holy flag was hoisted in the afternoon. The Bishop of Thanjavur Rev. Dr M Devadass Ambrose conducted special prayers on the theme "Mary - Refuge of Sinners". After the prayers, seven illuminated cars in various sizes were taken in procession, church officials said.
The special aspect of the procession is that the first 'pilot' car of the five illuminated cars is reserved exclusively for women devotees.
Clad in a pure silk saree resembling Indian culture, the Lady of Good Health was taken in the biggest of the cars. Devotees sang divine songs during the procession.

The car festival marks the start of birthday celebrations of the Lady of Good Health (September 8).
The main event of the 11-day annual festival will be held tomorrow. Special prayers will be conducted in several Indian languages from 6 AM and the holy flag will be lowered in the evening, marking the end of the annual festival.