Jadala Ramalingeswara Swamy Brahmotsavam begins in Chervugattu Village with devout walking on fire pit

NALGONDA: Sri Jadala Ramalingeswara Swamy Brahmotsavam in Chervugattu village of Narkatpalle mandal, Nalgonda district commenced with grandeur as the Agni Gundam (fire pit) program unfolded in the early hours of Monday.

Amidst fervent devotion and traditional rituals, devotees participated in the ceremonial procession of deity on a ‘Parvatha Vahanam’ accompanied by playing of instruments.

The event, a significant part of the Brahmotsavam, witnessed a large turnout of devotees, necessitating tight security measures by the police and fire departments to ensure the safety of all attendees and prevent any untoward incidents. Queues were meticulously arranged, guiding devotees to walk across fire pellets as an expression of their faith, chanting 'Harahara Sambho' in reverence to Lord Shiva.

Central to the Agni Gundala programme is the practice of presenting crops to the deity in fire pits following the Kalyanam ceremony, symbolising a devout offering for abundant harvests free from pests and favourable weather conditions.

The belief in the ritual's efficacy in blessing families and crops with prosperity and well-being resonates deeply among the devotees, underscoring the spiritual significance of the occasion.

Devotees would walk on the fire pit as part of the offering and cross it safely.

A notable highlight of the programme is the presence of Shiva sattu (devotees of Lord Shiva), a revered tradition that has gained popularity and become a customary feature at Agni Gundam events, coming from across the state.