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Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Lays Temple Foundation Amid Ritual Controversy

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy participated in the Bhumi Pooja and laid the foundation stone for the Rs 351 crore expansion of the Sita Ramachandra Swamy temple in Bhadrachalam. The event was part of the state-organized Sri Sita Rama Kalyana Mahotsavam, the ceremonial wedding of the deities during Rama Navami. Concurrently, Yamuna Pathak of the Vishwa Hindu Raksha Parishad voiced strong objections to perceived deviations in the temple's traditional wedding rituals. She called for immediate government action to adhere to established Agama traditions and High Court directives.

Key Points: Telangana CM at Bhadrachalam Temple Bhumi Pooja & Kalyana Mahotsavam

  • Rs 351 crore temple expansion launched
  • CM participates in divine wedding ceremony
  • Ritual deviations spark controversy from Hindu groups
  • Celebrations part of Rama Navami festivities
  • Foundation stone laid for first phase of works
3 min read

Telangana CM participates in Bhumi Pooja for Sri Sita Ramachandra Temple during Kalyana Mahotsavam

CM A Revanth Reddy inaugurates Rs 351 crore temple expansion in Bhadradri Kothagudem during Sri Sita Rama Kalyana Mahotsavam, amid ritual tradition concerns.

"Temple traditions are not experimental frameworks; they are inherited sacred trusts. - Yamuna Pathak"

Bhadradri Kothagudem, March 27

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Friday participated in the Bhumi Pooja of the Sita Ramachandra Swamy temple in Bhadrachalam during the Sri Sita Rama Kalyana Mahotsavam being organised by the state government.

During the visit, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the first phase of temple expansion and development works worth Rs 351 crores.

CM Reddy participated in the Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Thirukalyanam (celestial wedding ceremony) at Mithila Stadium. On behalf of the state government, the Chief Minister offered silk clothes and a pearl "talambralu" (sacred ceremonial offering) to the deity.

The Kalyana Mahotsavam symbolises the divine marriage of Lord Sri Ram and Goddess Sita, celebrated as per the astronomical and ritual timings. It is considered highly auspicious and is a part of the annual Rama Navami festivities at the Bhadrachalam Temple.

The Sri Sita Rama Kalyana Mahotsavam is the ceremonial wedding ritual of the deities.

The Chief Minister extended warm wishes to the citizens on the occasion of Rama Navami.

In an X post, the Chief Minister's office wrote, "On the occasion of the supremely sacred Sri Rama Navami festival, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy Garu conveyed his heartfelt greetings to all the people of the state. He noted that Lord Sri Ramachandra Prabhu, who stands as a symbol of righteousness, justice, and integrity, is the ideal man for all people."

Reddy further emphasised leading a life embracing the truth, patience, and a sense of duty.

"Wishing that we walk in the path shown by that embodiment of dharma, and lead an ideal life by embracing truth, patience, and a sense of duty in our lives. He expressed his hope that with the benevolent grace of Lord Sri Ramachandra, this sacred Sri Rama Navami festival would fill everyone's lives with joy, health, and prosperity," the post read.

Earlier, Yamuna Pathak, National Mahila President, Vishwa Hindu Raksha Parishad (VHRP) express deep anguish, serious concern, and uncompromising objection to the continuing deviations taking place in the sacred Bhadrachalam of Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple Kalyana Mahotsavam traditions.

She said that the divine wedding of Lord Sita Ramachandra Swamy has been performed according to established Agama, Sampradaya, and Parampara. Changing the original Gotra-Pravara for several years and addressing Lord Rama as "Rama Narayana" and Mother Sita as "Sita Mahalakshmi" during Kalyanam, contrary to long-standing Bhadrachalam tradition, amounts to ritual distortion.

"Temple traditions are not experimental frameworks; they are inherited sacred trusts," she said.

She demanded that the State Government, Endowments Department, and concerned Principal Secretary act firmly, transparently, and immediately and implement the High Court directions without delay.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While I appreciate the government's involvement in the festival, the concerns raised by Yamuna Pathak ji are serious. Temple traditions and Agama Shastras should not be altered for convenience. The sanctity of rituals must be preserved at all costs.
R
Rohit P
Good to see the government organising the Kalyana Mahotsavam. It brings the community together and promotes our cultural heritage. Hope the festivities were peaceful and filled with bhakti for all attendees.
A
Anjali F
The message from the CM about following the path of truth and duty is timeless. In today's world, we need these reminders from our leaders. However, the administration must also ensure that the religious ceremonies are conducted with utmost respect to established parampara.
K
Karthik V
As a devotee who visits Bhadrachalam often, I'm a bit confused. If the traditions are being changed, who is authorising it? The Endowments Department should clarify and follow the court orders. Religion and politics should be kept separate, but traditions must be protected.
M
Michael C
Visiting India during this time has been an incredible experience. The scale and devotion of these festivals is amazing. It's interesting to see the deep connection between cultural celebration and governance here. Respecting tradition while moving forward seems to be a key discussion.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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