Pushkarini closed, Sevas suspended at Srivari temple in Tirumala

Tirupati: Stepping up the preventive measures against coronavirus (Covid-19), TTD has decided to close Swamy Pushkarini, the temple tank where the devotees take holy dip before darshan.

TTD additional executive officer A V Dharma Reddy said on Wednesday that as a part of the anti-coronavirus campaign the TTD had decided to close down the Swami Pushkarini adjacent to Srivari temple from 12 noon on March 19 Thursday until further orders.

Speaking to media persons, Dharma Reddy said since the chances of spread of coronavirus were more with mass bathing by pilgrims in the Swamy Pushkarini, it was being closed for devotees.

Instead, TTD has set up 18 shower baths with Pushkarini water for the sake of devotees, respecting their sentiments.

He said the surrounding areas of Pushkarini were also being sanitised with disinfectants every two hours daily. The addl EO said that all Arjitha sevas that were performed to the processional deities were also temporarily suspended with immediate effect.

TTD appealed to the devotees to take note that the suspended sevas included Arjita Brahmotsavam, Dolotsavam, Sahasra Kalasabhisekam, Kalyanotsavam, and Sahasra Deepalankara seva.

However Kalyanotsavam will be performed in Ekantham (with no devotees participation), following the age-old temple tradition and respecting the belief of of devotees, he added.

All devotees with Arjita Seva tickets need not cancel their journey tickets but could get darshan under VIP break category. Those who do not want to enjoy the VIP break darshan can opt for a refund as well.

The cancellation of Arjitha Seva by TTD was to minimise the pilgrim gathering as much as possible at Tirumala as part of increased measures against the disease.

TTD has also suspended Anga Pradakshina, senior citizens, physically-challenged and parents with infant's darshan, which will come into effect from March 20 Friday onwards.