The 21st anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was solemnly observed on Friday in coastal villages of Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal districts. Thousands of people participated in memorial events across these regions, honoring the thousands who lost their lives in the tragic disaster. In Mayiladuthurai district, a remembrance ceremony was held at Thirumullaivasal, where 116 people died. The event was led by Sirkazhi MLA Panneerselvam at the seaside memorial. A silent procession moved from the Thirumullaivasal bus stand to the memorial. Participants offered floral tributes and lit candles. Panchayat leaders, fishermen representatives, political party members, and locals attended in large numbers. More than 28 fishing villages, including Poompuhar, Vanagiri, Thoduvai, and Koozhaiyar, held similar events with over 10,000 participants. Nagapattinam district marked the day with a memorial programme at the Tsunami Memorial Park. Collector P. Akash and Superintendent of Police S. Selvakumar paid floral tributes. Senior officials and representatives from the Rural Development Department took part. The tsunami claimed 6,065 lives in Nagapattinam, severely impacting livelihoods and infrastructure. Coastal settlements like Keechankuppam, Akkaraipettai, Nambiyar Nagar, and Velankanni held silent marches, candlelight vigils, and prayers. Many families visibly mourned their lost loved ones. Political parties DMK, AIADMK, BJP, and others also organized separate homage events. In Karaikal, memorials took place at burial sites and coastal monuments. Puducherry Minister P.R.N. Thirumurugan, Collector A.S.P.S. Ravi Prakash, MLAs, and local leaders paid floral respects at the beach memorial. Fisherfolk and families gathered at Poovam and Tirumalairayanpattinam for silent processions and candlelight ceremonies. The day was a poignant reminder of the devastation caused by one of the worst natural disasters in recent history and a tribute to the resilience of the affected communities.