Spiritual ecstasy marks Rama ‘Pattabhishekam’

Telangana and AP Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan presents ‘pattu vastrams’ to the temple deity

Impressive ceremony:(Clockwise) Devotees taking part in Lord Rama’s ‘Maha Pattabhishekam’ at Mithila Mandapam in Bhadrachalam on Saturday. Artistes performing on the occasion. TS and AP Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan presenting ‘pattu vastrams’ to the deity.— PHOTOS: G.N. RAO

Royal splendour marked Lord Rama’s ‘Maha Pattabhishekam’ (coronation ceremony) held amid great pomp and pageantry at Mithila Mandapam in Bhadrachalam on Saturday.

The impressive ceremony that lasted for nearly two hours featured a host of elaborate rituals in an ambience reflecting royal opulence while scores of devotees witnessed the coronation fete.

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan presented ‘pattu vastrams’ to the temple deity on the occasion.

Earlier, the idols of Lord Rama and his consort Sita were brought to the Mithila Mandapam in a procession to the accompaniment of traditional music.

The coronation fete began after seating the decorated idols on the dazzling throne and adorning Lord Rama with ‘Racha Mudrika’, ‘Khadgam’, ‘Chatram’ and other impressive ornaments.

As part of the ‘kiritadharana’ ceremony, the temple priests then adorned Lord Rama with a glittering crown after performing the rituals, including ‘Vishwaksena puja’, ‘Punyahavachanam’ and ‘Samprokshanam’ as the devotees raised their hands in reverence.

Earlier, the Governor also offered special prayers at the historical Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy temple.