A Catholic saint becomes part of the Hindu pantheon in Palermo.


Every year in Palermo, Sicily, Hindus and Catholics come together to celebrate the Catholic Saint Rosalia, reflecting the city's diverse and tolerant culture. The blending of faiths and traditions in Palermo contrasts with the rigid political discourse in Italy and Europe emphasizing borders and identities. The city's Hindu Tamil community, mostly immigrants from Sri Lanka, has integrated the Catholic saint into their religious practices and attributes various miracles to her. The devotion to Rosalia has helped the Tamil community gain visibility and acceptance among Sicilians. The coexistence of these beliefs is exemplified by the pilgrims who visit Rosalia's sanctuary before changing into traditional Hindu attire and heading to their temple, highlighting the harmonious fusion of religious customs in Palermo.



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