TIRUPATI: The Kanipakam Sri Varasiddi Vinayaka Swamy Temple is bracing for a heavy pilgrim rush during its annual Brahmotsavams from September 14 to October 4. The Kanipakam festivities overlap with the Tirumala Brahmotsavams from September 15 to September 23.
Endowments and Chittoor district administrations are stepping up arrangements as many Tirumala-bound devotees are also expected to pray at Kanipakam and Srikalahasti temples.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Kanipakam Temple trust board chairman V. Surendra Babu said elaborate arrangements are being made keeping in view the heavy pilgrim turnout. He said more than 80 per cent of the preparatory works have been completed. The remaining works are being taken up on priority.
Food arrangements have been increased to meet the demand. “Around 3,500 devotees are currently receiving Anna Prasadam at Kanipakam every day. We will enhance preparations to serve Anna Prasadam to more than 5,000 during the Brahmotsavams,” Surendra Babu disclosed on Tuesday. Annadanam will be served from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while tiffin will be provided during the night throughout the 21-day festival.
According to the chairman, adequate availability of prasadam, including laddus and vadas, will be made available. All arjitha sevas will remain cancelled during the Brahmotsavams, except Ganapathi Homam and temple Ubhayadarula Abhishekam.
Security arrangements are being strengthened with the assistance of the district police. As many as 210 CCTV cameras have been installed across the temple premises to monitor the movement of devotees.
To meet the rush, 50 temporary staff have been engaged. Trust board members have been assigned responsibilities to coordinate the various aspects of celebrations, including decorations.
Cultural programmes, including Kuchipudi dance, devotional songs, and street plays, will be organised during the festival. Surendra Babu said this annual Brahmotsavams is the first major festival for the present trust board. He appealed to devotees, officials, and other stakeholders to cooperate in smooth conduct of the celebrations.