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Summary:The festival of penance, held in Sri Lanka every year for the followers of the god Kataragama, was held on July 16 1973. After purifying themselves in the sacred river Menik Ganga, the penitents take part in ancient rituals which often involve physical pain, such as carrying burning coals or piercing the flesh with needles. Devotees of the rituals believe, however, that such acts absolve sins and bring relief from illness and affliction.
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Location:SRI LANKA
Reuters ID:LDL0010PMS4SN
Aspect Ratio:4:3
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Copyright Holder:Reuters Archive
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