The 40th anniversary of the Kumudini boat massacre was solemnly commemorated on May 15 at the Delft jetty in remembrance of one of the most tragic incidents in the island’s recent history.
On May 15, 1985, the Kumudini boat, carrying 64 civilians from Nainativu to Kurikattuwan, was intercepted and brutally attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy in mid-sea. Thirty-six civilians—including women, children, and the elderly—were mercilessly killed.
To honor the memory of the victims, the day began with a memorial Holy Mass at St. Xavier’s Church in Delft, presided over by Rev. Fr. Pathinathan, the Parish Priest.
A remembrance event followed at the memorial monument in Mavilithurai jetty, organized by the Memorial Committee led by Mr. Visuvalingam Rudhiran. The ceremony included lighting the memorial flame and floral tributes.
As part of the Mullivaikkal Remembrance Week, traditional Mullivaikkal porridge (kanji) was distributed to those in attendance.
The event drew participation from interfaith religious leaders, Member of Parliament Mr. Sivagnanam Sritharan, relatives of the victims, and members of the general public, all gathered in a spirit of grief, reflection, and unity.
