Srisailam celebrates Mahasivaratri Brahmostsavams with ‘Rathotsavam’, ‘Teppotsavam’

The processional idols of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba were taken out on a celestial ride on the streets of Srisailam as part of the Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams, on Monday.

The district administration and temple management made elaborate arrangements for the ‘Rathotsavam’ held on Monday amid chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ by the devotees. The processional idols were brought out in a palanquin from the temple to the chariot. Before the Rathotsavam, priests performed Rathanga Puja, Rathanga Homam and Rathanga Bali in accordance with Agama traditions. Pumpkins, coconuts and heaps of rice were offered as ‘bali’.

The chariot was adorned with 11 varieties of flowers such as marigold, chrysanthemum, roses and others. Devotees pulled the chariot from the Gopuram to Nandi Circle and back. Later, the traditional ‘Teppotsavam’ was organised in the temple pond.