Devotees throng historic temple after ending fast

By Sinniah Gurunathan Trinco cor.

Hundreds of devotees, most of them women, from all parts of the country thronged the historic Pathirakali (Paththini) Ambal Temple in Trincomalee on Friday morning, a day after the Deepavali festival and obtained the Holy Thread, after twenty-one days of fasting.

They tie the Holy Thread on their arms until it is replaced next year, after another 21 days of fasting. This fasting is called Kethara Gowrie fasting which is observed by married Hindus who pray for long life, good health and good fortune for their spouses.

Spinsters and bachelors observe the fast praying for partners who will bring long life and good fortune, according to Hindu chronicles.

As depicted in the Hindu scriptures, Goddess Parvathi (Sakthi) observed the fast for 21 days. On completion of it (viratham in Tamil) Lord Shiva accepted Goddess Parvathi into the left half of the form and appeared as Arthanareeshwarar (half man-half woman).

Since then Hindus in the the world over started fasting. The Pathirakali Temple is revered not only by Hindus but also by Buddhists.