Theenithi or the firewalking ceremony is one of the two most important Hindu festivals in Singapore. Records show that the first fire walking ceremony started at the Sri Mariamman temple in 1840. It is a festival dedicated and celebrated in honor of goddess Sri Draupadai, who is said to have walked on the fire after the 18-day war to prove her purity. For the devotees who walk on fire, it is a test of faith towards their Goddess, and a chance to fulfill their religious vows.The Caulkers brought their village deity to Singapore and ensured that a separate sanctum was built for Her. Consequently, they introduced the firewalking ceremony, a practice which was observed in their village. The Caulkers took the responsibility of conducting the important ceremony of kodiyetram (flag hoisting) ceremony and series of rituals associated with fire walking ceremony.
