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Time of India

Traditional fishing festival draws thousands at Periya Kanmai

1 2 3 4 Madurai: The annual fishing festival at Cholappereri Kanmai, popularly known as Periya Kanmai, was celebrated in grand traditional style on Saturday near Thiruvadhavur in Melur taluk. More than a thousand people from nearby villages and neighbouring districts, including Sivagangai and Dindigul, gathered for the event. The day began with rituals led by village elders, accompanied by the beat of traditional drums and fireworks. Following the ceremonial tossing of white feathers into the tank—a symbolic gesture allowing fishing to begin—participants of all ages waded into the water using traditional tools such as kacha, uttha, and baskets. Local fish varieties such as kendai (carp) and catla, some weighing up to 10 kg, were caught. In keeping with tradition, the catch was not sold but shared, cooked, and eaten on-site, underscoring the spirit of unity and community. "This festival is not just about fishing. It's about unity, faith in the rains, and agricultural prosperity," said a village elder. Locals believe that the festival invokes good rainfall and ensures a bountiful harvest. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Investire è più facile che mai BG SAXO Scopri di più Undo However, concerns were raised over ecological changes. Jayaraj, a participant from Dindigul, warned about the growing presence of tank cleaner fish—an invasive species previously confined to the Vaigai. "These fish are spreading across tanks in Madurai and threatening native species. The fisheries department should intervene before it's too late," he said. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .