Fruits, flowers and coins offered to goddess of the sea

Hundreds of Hindus gathered at Manzanilla yesterday in observance of Kartik Nahaan. Devotees offered flowers, fruits, and coins to the goddess of the water, the Hindu deity Mother Ganga. Pundit Bownath Maharaj officiated at one of several offerings and told devotees that Kartik is a time to cleanse oneself and to ensure that something is given back to the goddess of the sea. Pooja (Hindu ritual) was carried out at points along of the sea front by the Hindus who took time off from work to observe the prayers. Flags were then planted throughout the beach creating a colourful spectacle.

All Hindu schools remained closed yesterday to allow school children the opportunity to take part in the prayers. Folowing the poojas, flowers and fruits were then offered to the sea. Devotees partook in vegetarian dishes and sang  bhagans (holy Hindi songs). Devotees told Newsday that the observance of Kartik is important, especially at a time when the sea seems to be reclaiming land and purging out all the impurities dumped in the water. They added that by observing Kartik, the Mother of the Sea is asked to protect her devotees and provide whatever they wished. Hindus and Orishas are the only persons who offer back to nature. Kartik has been observed since the East Indian indentured labourers came to Trinidad. The observance is carried out at all sea fronts throughout the country. Manzanilla is considered one the most visited site for kartik.