Nellore: Special prayers seeking timely and abundant rainfall, prosperity, and the well-being of the people were offered during the Sahasra Ghattabhishekam Mahotsavam, which was celebrated with religious fervour at the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakshitayi Devasthanam in Jonnawada, Buchireddypalem mandal, on Wednesday
The rituals commenced with priests and Vedic scholars carrying sacred water in earthen pots from Penna river in a devotional procession accompanied by Vedic chants and bhajans. The Sahasra Ghattabhishekam was later performed to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy amid the chanting of Vedic hymns, with the temple reverberating with cries of “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Hara Hara Mahadeva”
A large number of devotees participated in the ceremony and offered prayers for good rains, agricultural prosperity, and the health and happiness of all
Temple chairman Thirumuru Ashok Reddy, assistant commissioner and executive officer Arvabhoomi Venkata Srinivasulu Reddy, members of the temple trust board, priests, Vedic scholars, staff, volunteers, and devotees took part in the celebrations, while the temple authorities made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the event
Meanwhile, temples across Nellore and Prakasam districts, especially Shirdi Saibaba mandirs, witnessed a heavy turnout of devotees on the occasion of the auspicious Guru Pournami festival. While Archakas performed abhishekam and homam, temple committees made elaborate arrangements to handle the milling crowds and distributed Anna Prasadam
