Why 16 Abhishekams Are Performed In Rameswaram’s Samudra Aarti

Agni Tirtham is one of the Tirthas of Rameswaram City, Tamil Nadu. It is on the east side of the beach of Ramanathaswamy Temple. This religious place attracts devotees from all over, who take a holy dip in the ocean. Every month, on the full moon night or Purnima, a unique and auspicious event takes place here. The grand ritual of Samudra Aarti is performed by devotees. Samudra Aarti is the ocean prayer ceremony, which is considered to be very auspicious. As per religious texts, the worship of Samudra began by offering it aarthi, according to Vedic rituals. Similarly, the Sethu Samudra Aarti group begins the holy rituals a day before the Purnima in the Puratassi masam. It has been conducting this aarti for the last seven years.

Before the event commences, a ceremonial pot or kalash is installed and then the rituals are performed. Now, let us share a unique ritual. As priests recite the Vedic mantras, they perform 16 different types of sacred offerings or Abhishekams including milk, honey, sandalwood paste and turmeric. These are offered to the sacred water. This Holy or sacred water is then poured into the sea, which is considered to be an act of consecration. According to beliefs, 16 Abhishekams are performed as they benefit the world. The aarti is focused on spreading peace and harmony among humanity, and the world.

During this aarti, devotees gather at this place with lit oil or ghee lamps/diyas in their hands and offer their prayers to the Samudra or the ocean. The lamps, lights, hymns, flowers and chants blend with the rhythm of the waves, thus, creating a surreal experience and ambience for those witnessing it. It further enhances the sanctity of the Samudra Aarti and seeks blessings from the ocean.

The whole beach is illuminated with the moonlight, diyas and the holy fire, along with the occasional clang of gong that adds to the mood of the devotees.

The Samudra Aarti is an age-old tradition that holds great significance not just for locals, but for all the devotees and general public who come to this holy place.