Southern States - Andhra Pradesh

Bhadradri Utsav in A.P. drawing big crowds

By Our Staff Reporter

BHADRACHALAM APRIL 18. The atmosphere in the temple town perched along the scenic course of the Godavari is charged with devotional spirit as the nine-day Bhadradi Utsav that coincides with the annual fete of Srirama Navami has triggered an influx of visitors. Tens of thousands coming from far off places have been flocking to Saketapuri _ venue of the Utsav, built in the magnificent backdrop of the lush green locales.

The town is agog with activity. Decoration of buildings and illumination of temple towers made the town look more colourful. Hotels and shops geared up for the special occasion put out welcome mats for the visitors, thus adding a festival flavour to the event. The environment witnessed the eruption of colours and enthusiasm.

Makeshift roads were laid over the sands in the river-bed, thanks to the month-long efforts of the administration. Sunset marks the beginning of the revelry on the riverside every day. The floodlit village has facilities to cater to the needs of over 25,000 people. The crowds are swelling day by day as it happens to be the beginning of the vacation for schoolchildren.

In all, 170 stalls opened in the fair showcasing the products and services of various small and medium industries. Government agencies spearheading the productive activities have put machinery that can add to the earnings of the households on display. Food booths serving tempting delights are favourite destination for a majority. Petty shops, tea and coffee stalls along the roadside are also doing roaring business.

It was an occasion for many children to spend their time practising horse ride and camel ride on the river bank, of course for a price. Tribal youths trained in archery teach them how to fling an arrow and hit the target without fail. Teams from various districts are taking part in rural sports. The Koya tribes give a their own touch to the event performing their traditional dances at regular intervals.

The stage performances that feature the daily cultural shows have big names and great entertainers. Magic shows by B.V. Pattabhiram and mimicry by Mallam Ramesh and group could enthrall the audience. Special buses are being run regularly to the venue of the festival for the convenience of tourists descending on the pilgrim town. Responding to the pleas of local people, parking place was provided on the river bank.

Police have made necessary deployments for checking vehicles bound for the town. Tight security has been provided for the VIP enclosures.

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