Vizianagaram MANSAS Trust Chairman Sanchaita Gajapati Raju’s behaviour has turned objectionable, from the moment she was appointed to the post with the backing of the state government. Her decisions have also been criticised by the public, especially the move to privatize MR Degree College.
Humiliation for Ananda Gajapathi Raju’s family
The Maharaja of Vizianagaram Pusapati Ananda Gajapathi Raju’s second wife Sudha Gajapathi Raju and daughter Urmila Gajapathi Raju suffered humiliation in the presence of goddess Sri Pydithalli. The reason behind their humiliation was Sanchaita Gajapati Raju, daughter of Uma Gajapathi Raju, the first wife of Ananda Gajapathi Raju.
As per traditional norms, Urmila Gajapathi Raju the Director of MANSAS along with her mother Sudha Gajapathi Raju were welcomed by the royal staff to watch the Sirimanothsavam proceedings from atop the fort. However, Sanchaita on her arrival questioned the staff as to why they allowed Urmila and Sudha Gajapathi Raju. The MANSAS Chairman even directed the royal staff to escort the duo from the venue thereby humiliating them.
Even Former Union Minister Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju’s family decided to stay away from the festival over the priority being given to Sanchaita Gajapati Raju. Mr Ashok is the brother of Ananda Gajapathi Raju.
Is it not our right too?
Urmila Gajapathi Raju addressing the media after Sirimanothsavam criticised Sanchaita’s actions and made it clear that she and her mother Sudha Gajapathi Raju are still a part of the royal family. She added that as family members of MANSAS they had attended the ceremony which was being followed traditionally for many years and that it was their right too to take part in the festival.
The MANSAS Director who had been attending the festival for the past two decades lambasted Sanchaita saying that it isn’t a royal family programme instead a spiritual one.