Sri Rama Navami festivities in full swing at Valmikipuram temple

Grand Sri Rama Navami celebrations unfolded at the historic Lord Pattabhi Ramaswamy Temple in Valmikipuram of Annamayya district on Friday (March 27).

Administered by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the 12th-century shrine is drawing thousands of devotees from across Rayalaseema and neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Elaborate arrangements were made in coordination with the district police to ensure the smooth conduct of the festivities amid the heavy influx of pilgrims.

Steeped in legend, the temple is believed to have been consecrated by sage Valmiki and later flourished under the patronage of the Chola, Pallava, and Vijayanagara rulers and received support during the British era. Historical accounts also recall visits by rulers such as Shivaji, Tipu Sultan and Krishnadevaraya, and their generous donations to the temple. During the British colonial period, the temple had enjoyed the patronage of the administrative officers in Kadapa and erstwhile Madras.

From the early hours, special ‘abhishekam’ rituals were performed, followed by vibrant floral decorations, silk adornments and ornaments. A major highlight is that this is the only temple in India to house the idols of Lord Rama and Sita along with Lakshmana, Bharatha, Shatrughna and Hanuman.

Sita Rama Kalyanotsavam, the cynosure of the festivities, is scheduled for March 29, while thousands of devotees are expected to participate in the grand ‘Rathothsavam’ procession on March 30.