Celebrations break out at Thangachimadam

The families of fishermen thank Centre, State

Relatives celebrate at Thangachimadam after five fishermen were freed on Wednesday. Photo: L. Balachandar

Thangachimadam, a fishing hamlet in this pilgrim town, wore a festive look on Wednesday evening.

As news broke about the fishermen - Emerson, P. Augustus, R. Wilson, K. Prasath and J. Langlet - being released to the care of the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka, their relatives and friends and fishermen leaders thronged their houses.

They burst crackers and distributed sweets. “We are getting ready for a massive celebration as we received reports that the fishermen would arrive in Tiruchi on Thursday,” fishermen leader Emirat told

The Hindu .

“I find smile in the face of my daughter-in-law for the first time in three years,” said Apoorvam, mother of Emerson.

The family members had no words to express their happiness even as a stream of relatives visited their houses with sweets and hugged each other, fighting back tears of joy.

They thanked the Centre and State governments, fishermen leaders, leaders of various parties, the media and all those who played a role in securing the release of the fishermen.

“God has answered our prayers and, for a change, we will celebrate New Year, ahead of Christmas,” said Infanta, mother of Langlet.

“We are immensely happy and we will not allow our son to venture into sea for fishing ever,” said K.S. John Britto, father of Langlet.