Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu) [India], Jan 24 : Scores of devotees here on Friday performed various religious rituals dedicated to their ancestors on the occasion of Thai Ammavasai.
They also took a dip in the 'Agni Theertham' seashore in Rameswaram and gave 'Tarpan' to their forefathers.

The ancient pilgrim island was milled with the crowd since Tuesday, as devotees and pilgrims geared up to perform rituals in memory of the departed souls and sought their blessings.
A pandit from the temple said: "On this day thousands of devotees come to Rameswaram to perform the pujas in remembrance of their forefathers. They also take a dip in the sea as a part of the ritual."

Along with performing 'Tarpan' with the help of priests at 'Agni Theertham' shore, the pilgrims generously gifted various things to the poor and needy including clothes and cows, besides organising free meals.

A devotee from Gujarat while explaining the whole activity performed during the day of Ammavasai said: "Many people come and perform the rituals to pay respect and calm the souls of their departed ancestors".
After performing the pujas to their forefathers, they also bathed at the 22 special springs inside the temple complex and had 'darshan' of the presiding Shri Ramanathaswamy.