Ratha Saptami Commences with Grandeur at Arasavalli

Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha reviewed security and administrative arrangements for the Ratha Saptami festival at the Sri Surya Narayana Swamy Temple, Arasavalli , during a meeting at the Srikakulam District Police Office . She directed officials to ensure effective traffic regulation and devotee safety through inter-departmental coordination. The review was attended by SP Maheshwar Reddy , Collector Swapnil Dinkar , MLA Gondu Shankar , and senior officials.

The historic Arasavalli Surya Devalayam will host the prestigious festival from January 19 to January 24 , marking the birth anniversary of Lord Surya . Endowments Commissioner Ramachandra Mohan is supervising the arrangements, with priority given to quick darshan for general devotees. Four special queues have been set up to reduce waiting time.

Special measures are being taken to ensure smooth movement of devotees during VIP visits. Separate arrangements have been made for annadanam donors and pass holders , along with improved sanitation, drinking water, and overhead shelters.

₹100 and ₹300 darshan tickets and ₹500 special darshan tickets will be available online from January 19 , with darshan timings printed on them. Ksheerabhishekam bookings will open on January 24 . Around 100 Endowments staff and 500 volunteers will be deployed for crowd management.

A Mega Surya Namaskar will be held at 7 am on January 22 , followed by cultural programmes, including performances by Goreti Venkanna , the Jabardasth comedy team , and a fireworks display. A grand procession and laser show are scheduled on January 23 .

The valedictory ceremony on January 24 will feature a live concert by music director Thaman , appearances by popular anchors and actor Aadi , and a drone show . The Saptami Tithi begins at 12.39 am on January 25 , with the auspicious holy bath scheduled between 5.26 am and 7.13 am .