Thousands of devotees thronged Valmikipuram town and took part in the Rathotsavam of Lord Pattabhiramaswamy temple as part of the ongoing Salakatla annual Brahmotsavams.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) which administers this 600-year-old temple made elaborate arrangements for the grand spectacle of chariot dragging from morning till evening in two sessions. Over 20,000 people from all over Madanapalle division and from neighbouring State of Karnataka enthusiastically dragged the giant wooden car of the Lord through the main thoroughfares of the temple town, carrying the processional deities of Lord Rama, Lakshmana and goddess Sita. Local voluntary groups arranged ‘annadanam’ and distribution of buttermilk at various corners of the town.
Earlier on Tuesday night, the temple management performed the ‘Sita Ramula Kalyanam.’ Thousands of devotees participated in the ritual. TTD Joint Executive Officer Pola Bhaskar and Vigilance Officer Sukumar made inspections at the temple and oversaw arrangements. The Brahmotsavams will conclude on April 3 with performing of Pushpa Yagam ritual.
