Fri Dec 26 12:49:35 UTC 2025: ## News Article: Visakhapatnam Fishing Community Honors Sea Goddess, Remembers Tsunami
Visakhapatnam, India – December 26, 2025: Fisherwomen in Visakhapatnam gathered at Lawson’s Bay Beach in Pedajalaripeta today to participate in the annual Gangamma Jathara, a ritual dedicated to the Sea Goddess Gangamma. The event, held on the anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, is a demonstration of gratitude and a plea for continued protection from the sea.
Hundreds of women from various fishing communities across the city, dressed in traditional attire, processed towards the beach carrying decorated pots (kalasas) filled with milk and turmeric. Accompanied by men playing drums and shehnais, they chanted hymns in praise of Gangamma.
Upon reaching the shore, the women offered harathi to the sea, pouring water mixed with turmeric, kumkum, and flowers into the waves. Some sculpted idols of the deity from the sand and performed special prayers.
“The Sea Goddess Gangamma is our source of livelihood,” explained fisherwoman Vasupalli Lalitha. “During the 2004 tsunami, many coastal cities were affected, but Vizag was spared due to her blessings. Every year, we perform this ritual to express our gratitude and seek her protection.”
Fisherman Yellaji added that the community also prays for safe returns after fishing expeditions. “On this day, we offer our special delicacies to the goddess and avoid venturing into the sea,” he said.
The Gangamma Jathara is a significant event for the Visakhapatnam fishing community, reflecting their deep connection to the sea and their reliance on its bounty. The annual observance serves as both a celebration of the goddess’s perceived protection and a solemn reminder of the devastating tsunami of 2004.
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