Lord Rama temple geared up for Sri Rama Navami celebrations in Annamayya district

The famous Lord Pattabhi Ramaswamy temple at Valmikipuram in Annamayya district is fully geared up for ‘Sri Rama Navami’ celebrations on Sunday. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which administers the ancient temple from 12th century AD, have made elaborate arrangements in coordination with the district police to welcome thousands of devotees from across the Rayalaseema districts and the neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

According to legends, sage Valmiki had consecrated the idol of Lord Rama at Valmikipuram, which later developed into a temple during the dynasties of Cholas, Pallavas, and the Vijaya Nagara kings, before enjoying the patronage of the British Raj. Maratha emperor Shivaji, Tippu Sultan, and emperor Krishnadevaraya were among the famous kings who visited the temple. A unique feature of the temple is that it houses the idols of Lord Rama and Seetha, along with Lakshmana, Bharatha, Shatrugna, and Hanuman.

The Sri Rama Navami celebrations will commence from the early hours on Sunday, with special ‘abhishekam’ of the deities, followed by a grand decoration with flowers, ‘silk vasthrams’, and ornaments. ‘Sita Rama Kalyanotsavam, the ceremonial wedding of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, will be the main highlight, which will be performed on April 7 (Monday).

Senior officials of the district administration and political leaders are expected to take part in the celebrations. Thousands of devotees take part in the grand procession of ‘Rathothsavam’ in the evening.