Heavy influx of Kannadigas at Mahanandi temple

Nandyal: Sri Mahanandiswara Swamyvari Devasthanam at Mahanandi in the Nallamala forest witnessed a heavy rush of Kannadigas on Friday and Saturday. As per the tradition, Kannadigas, who consider Goddess Kameswari as their Sister and Lord Mahanandiswara as brother-in-law, visit Mahanandiswara Swamy temple without fail after witnessing Rathotsavam at Srisaila Devasthanam organised as part of the annual Ugadi Mahotsavam.

• Ugadi festivities go off peacefully

They fulfilled their vows and made offerings to the presiding deities as per their tradition. The devasthanam authorities made elaborate arrangements to meet the rush of Kannadigas and ensured hassle-free darshan for them. Elaborate security arrangements were also made at the shrine to thwart any untoward incident. The festivities went off peacefully.

The temple priests, devasthanam officials and local vendors are well aware of the customs and traditions of Kannadigas. As per the practice, the temple authorities allow the Kannadigas, who embark on pilgrimage by foot from their native villages every year, into the sanctum sanctorum to have a darshan of the presiding deities.

After having a darshan, the pilgrims purchase winnowing baskets, bamboo sticks, plastic toys, vermillion, turmeric, sweets and snacks in the local market. On reaching their native places, they perform puja on successful completion of pilgrimage. Later, they distribute the material brought from Mahanandi to their sisters and daughters.

It is a strong belief among Kannadigas that the distribution of winnowing baskets, bamboo sticks and other material to their sisters ensures the well-being of their families and brings all-round prosperity. The age old tradition continues without any hindrance. The number of Kannadigas visiting the shrine is on the rise over the years.