05-05-2025
Tight security in place for Thathayagunta Gangamma temple jatra
The annual Tirupati Gangamma Jatara—a week-long folk festival, will begin from May 6. The Tirupati police have enforced tight security in and around the famous Thathayagunta Gangamma temple located in the heart of Tirupati.
The festivities which last till May 13 will witness large crowds of devotees from across Rayalaseema, Nellore districts and the bordering states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
The Gangamma Jatara, is known for its vibrant and unique traditions, has gained attention across India after the Telugu film 'Pushpa – The Rule.' The movie features some scenes of the ancient practices followed at the temple— such as men dressed as women arriving at the temple to offer prayers on the final day.
The Andhra Pradesh State government has declared the event a State festival.
A special committee comprising of the local MLAs Arani Srinivasulu (Tirupati), Pulivarthi Nani (Chandragiri), TTD board member G. Bhanuprakash Reddy, AP Yadava Corporation Chairman G. Narasimha Yadav, BJP district President Samanchi Srinivas to oversee arrangements.
Superintendent of Police (Tirupati) V. Harshavardhan Raju inspected the security arrangements, including the formation of queues, arrangement of barricades, and deployment of forces. He also gave instructions to the sub-divisional cops on the diversion of traffic to be implemented in the vicinity, especially on the last two days when thousands of devotees are expected to throng the shrine. All arrangements have been taken up in consultation with the committee members of the temple.
Present for inspection were Additional Superintendent K. Ravi Manoharachary, Deputy Superintendents K. Bhaktavatsalam (Tirupati) and Ramakrishnachari (Traffic).
