A large number of devotees gathered to witness the Sivaratri celebrations at Srisailam in Nandyal district on Monday. | Photo credit: U. SUBRAMANYAM
The processional idols of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba were taken out for a celestial ride through the streets of Srisailam on Monday as part of the Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams.
The district administration and the temple management made elaborate arrangements for the ‘Rathotsavam’ which was held on Monday amid ‘Har Har Mahadev’ chants by devotees. The processional idols were carried on a stretcher from the temple to a chariot. Before Rathotsavam, the 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 car was decorated with 11 types of flowers such as marigolds, chrysanthemums, roses and others. Devotees pulled the chariot from the Gopuram to the Nandi circle and back. Later, a traditional ‘Teppotsavam’ was held in the temple pond.
Published – 16 Feb 2026 21:04 IST