Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh : The historic Sirimanu Utsavam, dedicated to the beloved deity of North Andhra, Sri Pydithalli Ammavaru, was celebrated on Tuesday with grand fervor and religious devotion in Vizianagaram district. The town was transformed into a sea of devotees as lakhs of pilgrims gathered to witness this age-old festival.
The air resonated with chants of devotion as the Sirimanu procession, the main event of the festival, unfolded in all its traditional grandeur. Devotees not only from across Andhra Pradesh but also from neighboring states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh participated in huge numbers, highlighting the festival’s widespread spiritual appeal.
In the central ritual, the temple’s chief priest Bantupalli Venkatarao ascended the Sirimanu (a sacred ceremonial tree trunk) and blessed the devotees, symbolizing the goddess herself. The grand procession, which began at the historic Chadaragudi, proceeded through the streets of Vizianagaram and concluded at the royal Vizianagaram Fort.
Preceding the Sirimanu were traditional elements such as Paladhara, White Elephant, Jalari Vala, and Anjali Ratham, each symbolizing different aspects of the divine narrative. Devotees believe that catching a glimpse of the deity during the Sirimanu procession fulfills their deepest wishes.
Hereditary trustee and royal descendant, Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, was present at the event, adding to its ceremonial significance.
Minor Mishap at the Venue
Amid the celebrations, a temporary stage collapsed, causing a brief moment of panic. Several dignitaries, including Opposition Leader of the Legislative Council Botsa Satyanarayana and his wife, former MP Bellam Chandrasekhar, and ex-MLA Appala Narasayya, were seated on the stage at the time. Fortunately, no major injuries were reported, though CI Ashok, who was on security duty, suffered minor injuries. Officials quickly brought the situation under control and the event continued peacefully.
Preceding Rituals: ‘Tholayellu’ Celebrated with Devotion
On Monday night, the traditional Tholayellu celebrations were conducted with great piety. As part of this ritual, the royal family, led by Ashok Gajapathi Raju, offered silken garments to the goddess, considered their familial deity. In a symbolic gesture, the priest distributed blessed seeds to the farmers, who believe that sowing them marks an auspicious start to the agricultural season.
Political representatives including MP Appalanayudu and MLA Atithi also took part in the early rituals and offered special prayers.
The festivities will continue with the ‘Teppotsavam’ (Boat Festival) scheduled to take place on October 14 at Pedacheruvu, further extending the spiritual celebrations for the devotees of Pydithalli Ammavaru.
