Padmanabha temple festivities from today

Vikarabad: Anantagiri, the abode of Lord Ananta Padmanabha Swamy, is a popular destination for people, especially in the auspicious month of Ashadam. Scores of people visit the Lord and enjoy the serene surroundings here, daily.

Apart from being a pilgrim centre, the place is a favourite getaway for the people of surrounding areas including the state capital. Ananta Padmanabha Swamy bestows all vows, according to devotees. Adjacent to the hill, there is a Bugga Ramalingeshwar temple, located amid beautiful natural settings. Kotipalli project, which offers boating, is just 15 km away from here.

People throng here to have a glimpse of the Lord and relax in the greeneries. Not only from the surrounding areas of Vikarabad, but also people from places like Hyderabad, Maharashtra and Karnataka visit the place in large numbers during the Karthika month.

The festivities of the auspicious Karthika month are starting at Ananta Padmanabha Swamy temple from Thursday. Temple authorities have made elaborate arrangements for this 'Karthika Jathara.' Festivities will be organised for 15 days as part of the celebration. Dhwajarohanam and Punyahawachanam will be held on the first day. The celebration will end on November 22 with Chakra Theertham for the Lord.

Temple authorities are expecting more crowds this year and have made necessary arrangements. The district police also made security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the 'Jatara.'