The presiding deity of Vizianagram and the Goddess of North Andhra people Sri Pydithalli’s Sirimanothsavam celebrations took place on a grand note, with the Sirimanu procession moving through the streets with auspicious music played in the background. The chief priest perched atop the sacred wooden log followed by the White Elephant, Anjali Chariot, Paladhara and Fishermen’s net moved from the fort to the temple three times. The procession which began at 3:45 PM culminated at 5 PM in the evening.
In these times during pandemic
Tight security was deployed in the wake of the festivities with the police cordoning off areas and imposing Section 144 due to the pandemic. As a result, the general public couldn’t witness the live proceedings due to the restrictions.
VVIPS throng temple
This year several VVIPS thronged Sri Pydithalli’s Sirimanothsavam celebrations and sought the blessings of the goddess. Local political leader and YSRCP Minister Botsa Satyanarayana accompanied by his wife offered silk robes to the goddess on behalf of the state government. State Assembly Speaker Thammineni Seetharam, Vizianagaram MP Bellana Chandra Sekhar and many other MLAs from North Andhra including public representatives, MANSAS Chairman P Sanchaita Gajapathi Raju, Pusapati Anand Gajapathi Raju’s wife Sudha Gajapathi and daughter Urmila Gajapathi were among the prominent personalities who visited the temple.
District Magistrate Dr M Hari Jawaharlal and SP B Rajakumari monitored all the arrangements. With the festivities being held peacefully, all officials heaved a sigh of huge relief.