What Arrangements Did CM Chandrababu Naidu Review for Godavari Pushkaralu?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Amaravati, Jan 23 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, conducted a review on Friday regarding the preparations for the upcoming Godavari Pushkaralu, set to take place next year.
During a high-level meeting at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister evaluated the plans for the 12-day festival, which is scheduled from June 26, 2027, to July 7, 2027.
These arrangements are being made across six districts through which the Godavari River flows - Polavaram, Eluru, East Godavari, West Godavari, Ambedkar Konaseema, and Kakinada.
Prior to the review meeting, the Chief Minister sought blessings from local priests.
He expressed his gratitude, stating that it is a privilege to oversee the Godavari Pushkaralu for the third time during his tenure.
The government is planning to build 139 new ghats in addition to the existing 234 ghats, bringing the total to 373 ghats along the riverbank, covering a distance of 9,918 metres.
It is anticipated that around 10 crore devotees from across India and beyond will visit the state to partake in the holy rituals during the Pushkaralu.
The Chief Minister instructed that the Polavaram project must be completed prior to the commencement of the Godavari Pushkaralu.
Attendees of the review meeting included Ministers Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Anita, Narayana, Nimmala Ramanaidu, Vasamsetti Subhash, Kandula Durgesh, BC Janardhan Reddy, Chief Secretary Vijayanand, and DGP Harish Kumar Gupta.
The coalition government previously indicated its intention to conduct the Godavari Pushkaralu on a scale similar to the Maha Kumbh Mela, emphasizing the need for a well-structured plan and interdepartmental coordination.
Water Resources Minister Ramanaidu emphasized that the cultural tradition of regarding water as sacred is deeply ingrained in our history. He stated, "Our scriptures affirm that immersing oneself in these holy rivers during the Pushkaralu is exceptionally auspicious."
It is believed that participating in the 12-day Pushkaralu offers spiritual benefits equivalent to bathing in 12 rivers over a span of 12 years.
The minister also remarked on the significance of the Ganga in Indian culture, noting that the Godavari is often referred to as the Southern Ganga due to its esteemed position.