The famous temples of Chinna Polamamba and Sri Krishna and ‘Aaru Kolayila’ junction from where the local women used to fetch water for their domestic purpose and an expansive Sivaji Park being maintained by GVMC are some of the landmarks of Sivajipalem in the city.
The history of this oldest neighbourhood dates back to pre-Independence era where the place was home to the Yadava community. Today, with over 10,000 population, Sivajipalem is the locality that many prefer to stay for generations. According to some of the residents of the colony, the locality earlier used to extend up to Dutt Island, Siriupuram, to the south, Beach Road to the east and MVP Colony to the north. With rapid urbanisation, the area has shrunk to the boundary that now stretches up to Doctors Colony, Peethalavanipalem and Mangapuram Colony.
What makes the place most sought-after is the serene setting combined with other amenities that appear to be a complete package for the colony people. “Most of us have been living here for decades as the colony is basically hassle-free. Earlier, cattle-rearing was the only source of income for us. Today, with other communities trickling in, many residents make a living through rentals and other sources,” says Peethala Murthy Yadav, a resident who has been living in the neighbourhood for decades.
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Members of Sri Krishna Yuvajana Seva Sangham focus on organising local festivals such as Sri Krishna Janmashtami and jataras . A 11-day festival is on cards as the colony people are gearing up to flag off Chinna Polamamba jatara on April 17. “It starts with the ritual of putta bangaram and concludes with Ammavari utsavam where tappeta gullu , kolatam and tiger dance are some of the highlights of the event that will continue till April 28,” explain the residents.