The 999th birth anniversary of Ramanujacharya, who played a key role in creating awareness about Vishishtadvaita in different parts of the country, was celebrated with religious fervour at Melkote in Pandavapura taluk of the district on Monday evening.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has extended its support for the celebrations by sending some idols which are usually taken out in a procession during the Kalyanotsavam of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala.
The idols of the gods were brought under tight security from Tirupati in a specially designed and decorated vehicle.
After performing the rituals, the procession of idols of Ramanujacharya, Lord Venkateswara, goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi Kalyananayaki commenced amid chanting of Vedic hymns by archaks. The chariot procession was taken out along the main thoroughfares of the town.
According to popular belief, Lord Cheluvanarayana Swamy, who is also known as “Chellapillai,” is the brother of Lord Venkateswara (Srinivasa).
Hence, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has sent the idols from Tirupati to Melkote for the first time, sources said.
The temple town wore a festive look following the celebrations.
