The 15th annual commemoration of Mullivaikal, which remembers the lives lost in the final stages of the genocide, took place today, Saturday (18), across Tamil Eelam. Among the various events held to mark this solemn occasion, a commemorative event was organised by the Mannar branch of Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) at 9:00 am.
The event in Mannar was held at the Thanthai Chelva statue area in the town centre, under the leadership of Charles Nirmalanathan, the President of the Mannar Branch and a Member of Parliament. The ceremony began with the lighting of a commemorative flame, symbolising remembrance and hope, followed by a silent vigil in memory of those who were killed in the final onslaught.
Participants were then served Mullivaikkal kanji, a rice porridge offered as a mark of respect and remembrance of survivors and victims of the genocide. The event saw the attendance of political representatives, members of civil society organisations, social activists, and the general public, all coming together to pay tribute to the victims of the genocide.