The annual feast of Our Lady of Good Health began in Vailankanni, marking the start of 10 days of devotion, prayer, and celebration that attract thousands of faithful devotees from across India and the world. Among them are hundreds of pilgrims from Goa, who continue to flock to the shrine, some travelling in large groups, aboard packed trains, bound for Tamil Nadu.
The festivities opened with the traditional flag-hoisting ceremony, symbolizing the beginning of the sacred event. Over the next nine days, the Basilica grounds will be filled with Novena prayers and Holy Masses as devotees seek blessings, express gratitude, and strengthen their faith.
For many Goan families, the Vailankanni feast is more than just a religious event—it is a generational tradition. “Coming to Vailankanni every year fills my heart with peace,” said Maria Fernandes, a pilgrim from Margao. “It’s not just about seeking blessings; it’s about feeling connected to Our Lady and sharing this faith with thousands of others.”
The shrine, often referred to as the “Lourdes of the East,” is renowned for its miracles and has become a beacon of hope for those seeking healing, comfort, and divine intercession. Pilgrims from various walks of life undertake this spiritual journey, carrying with them petitions and thanksgiving offerings.
The celebrations will culminate on September 8 with the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, one of the most significant days for Marian devotees. On this day, special Holy Masses and solemn processions are held, drawing even larger crowds to the Basilica.
The streets of Vailankanni come alive with the sound of prayers, hymns, and cultural programs, creating an atmosphere of devotion and unity.
Local authorities and church organizers have made elaborate arrangements to manage the massive influx of devotees, ensuring smooth transportation, accommodation, and safety measures throughout the feast period.
For the pilgrims, the annual journey is more than a trip to a holy place; it is a spiritual homecoming. It is a time to renew their faith, seek blessings for loved ones, and experience the sense of community that Vailankanni uniquely offers.
As the celebrations continue until September 8, the Basilica remains a symbol of unwavering faith, drawing people together in prayer and gratitude, and reinforcing Vailankanni’s place as one of Asia’s most revered Marian shrines.