Andhra Pradesh - Others   

TTD makes use of mandapam site to cope with pilgrim rush

By Our Staff Reporter

TIRUMALA, SEPT. 22. The vacant space following the demolition of the Thousand Pillar Mandapam here has come in handy to the TTD Management in tackling the pilgrim crowd during the ongoing nine-day Brahmotsavams.

The TTD as part of its implementation of the master plan, had demolished the structure and decided to reconstruct the Mandapam at the North Western side behind the main temple complex, which attracted criticism from some section of people including swamijis and jeers.

Setting aside the contradictory versions regarding the merits and demerits of the demolition of the structure, the sprawling two acres of space now made available with the dismantling of the Mandapam, Sannidhi Street, and the adjoining shops, houses and lodges, helped the TTD cope up with the pilgrim rush.

Pilgrims happy

Both the TTD management as well as the security personnel heaved a sigh of relief with no untoward incidents reported during the `Garuda seva' festival. Thousands of devotees witnessed the event from the enclosures specially erected for the festival.

The presentation of silk vastrams by the Chief Minister, Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, passed off without any hitch, in the presence of thousands of devotees who had gathered at the spacious enclosures. Devotees, who thronged the temple town, to participate in the Brahmotsvams were of the view that they could witness the daily festival processions displayed on the giant digital screen installed at the site.

Bhaskar Reddy and Poga thota of Nellore town said that, "for good or bad, the structure has been demolished. But as far as pilgrims are concerned, the vacant space enables us to watch the event comfortably."

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