The management of the sacred Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam has unveiled a new, heartfelt initiative: the ‘Dharma Prachara Radham’ (Dharma Propagation Chariot). This unique mobile shrine is set to journey through various regions, dedicated to spreading the timeless teachings and values of Hindu Dharma. In a further commitment to this mission, the temple authorities are actively considering organizing vibrant ‘Shobha Yatras’ (devotional processions) specifically within tribal hamlets as part of their extensive Dharma Pracharam efforts.
M. Srinivasa Rao, the Executive Officer (EO) of the Srisailam temple, stated that the Dharma Prachara Radham will primarily traverse areas within a 50 km radius of Srisailam. Its purpose is to educate people about Hindu spiritual traditions and highlight the profound cultural and religious significance of the revered Srisailam temple.
With the generous support of dedicated donors, local bhajan groups, and philanthropists, the temple plans to conduct ‘Leela Kalyanams’ – sacred ceremonial marriages of Lord Shiva and his divine consort Goddess Parvati – in numerous locations. A committed team comprising 20-25 temple officials, priests, and other staff members will participate in these auspicious Kalyanams, Mr. Srinivasa Rao shared with The Hindu.
The exquisitely designed Dharma Prachara Radham was a gracious donation from Balam Sudheer, a devoted follower residing in Hyderabad. Crafted as a stunning replica of the Srisailam temple itself, this elaborate chariot was constructed at a cost of ₹72 lakh. Its official handover to the temple took place on Tuesday at the Gangadhara Mandapam, witnessed by Mr. Srinivasa Rao, Chairman P. Ramesh Naidu, other officials, and dedicated temple staff.
This magnificent chariot proudly displays replica idols of Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi at its forefront. Meanwhile, intricately carved idols of Dakshinamurthy, Ganapathi, and Kumaraswamy adorn its rear and side panels, further enriching its spiritual aura.
During the handover ceremony, Mr. Sudheer expressed his deep gratitude, humbly stating that it was solely through the divine grace of Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba that he was blessed with the opportunity to contribute to such a sacred and meaningful endeavor.
Looking ahead, the temple management is also exploring ambitious plans to significantly expand its Dharma Pracharam activities within the tribal communities nestled in the verdant Nallamala forests. If these initiatives progress as envisioned, grand Shobha Yatras dedicated to propagating Hindu Dharma will soon be seen winding through the serene Chenchu hamlets, bringing spiritual solace and cultural connection.
The temple has a long-standing and cherished tradition of inviting the Chenchu people to the temple, offering them unique opportunities to participate in various sacred pujas and rituals during significant festivals like Brahmotsavams and other important celebrations held at Srisailam, fostering a deep bond of devotion and community.