Kurnool temples teem with pilgrims on Ugadi eve

Kurnool: The famous Shaivite shrines and Vaishnava temples in the Nallamala forest are teeming with pilgrims on the eve of Sri Durmukhi Nama Samvatsara Ugadi. The number of temples in Kurnool is quite high. Many ancient temples of historical significance are located in the district. There is a sea of pilgrims from Karnataka and Maharashtra all along the pedestrian path to Srisailam temple. Kannadigas and Maharashtrians visit Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in large numbers for Ugadi which ushers in a new beginning and prosperity. They consider Goddess Bhramaramba as their sister and Lord Mallikarjuna as brother-in-law. They make offerings to the presiding deities as per their respective traditions. They begin their pilgrimage to Srisailam after Holi by performing special pujas at their houses. Most of them come to Srisailam by foot as per tradition. They visit the temples in different attires and their traditions also look different and colourful. Ugadi Mahotsavam which began at Srisailam temple on Tuesday, concludes on Saturday. Out of the total pilgrim turnout during the five-day annual fete, Kannadigas and Maharashtrians outnumber devotees from other States. They worship the celestial couple as per their respective traditions on the festival day. After fulfilling their vows, they return home with immense satisfaction.
Sri Mahanandiswara Swamy temple at Mahanandi also attracts a large number of Kannadigas for Ugadi every year. They also consider Goddess Kameswari as their sister and Lord Mahanandiswara as brother-in-law and offer gifts to the divine couple. Chowdeshwari temple at Nandavaram in Banaganapalli mandal is also a major shrine which gets a huge number of Kannadigas for Ugadi every year. Animal sacrifice is also in vogue at the temple. Jataras are also held at many temples to mark the occasion.
The number of Kannadigas visiting the major shrines in the district is on the rise with each passing year. All the Devasthanams have made elaborate arrangements to meet the rush of pilgrims, particularly from neighbouring Karnataka, on the Telugu New Year Day. Festive atmosphere pervades the district as Ugadi is celebrated on a grand scale in Rayalaseema region.