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Like Fire-Walking, this ‘festival.’ is also dedicated to Amman, in the form of Kali. The Kathi Poosai festival is held in various parts of the country.
Strictly speaking, the Kathi Poosai is far from being a ‘festival’ as penitents have to submit themselves to an austere regimen.
The ceremony is commonly held in the months of February and March. But as in the case of fire-walking there are a few exceptions. In India the festivals
dedicated to Amman are generally held in Summer. For Summer can bring heavy rains causing serious damage to crops and cattle, giving rise to epidemics among the population. It can also cause severe droughts with
tragic consequences. In Mauritius penitents observe ‘Kathi Poosai’ more as penance for some wrong-doing or to seek a favour or a boon against ills that might befall a member of their family.
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