Shivaratri Relief: Forest Gates Open for Gundla Brahmeswara Darshan

In a major relief to thousands of devotees, the path to the revered Sri Gundla Brahmeswara Swamy Temple , hidden deep inside the Nallamala forests on the Nandyal–Markapuram border, has finally been cleared ahead of Maha Shivaratri.

The ancient Shaivite shrine, located within the eco-sensitive limits of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, remains out of bounds for most of the year to protect wildlife. Entry is traditionally allowed only during Shivaratri under strict forest supervision.

This year, however, uncertainty loomed large as the ongoing tiger census prompted officials to initially withhold permission. The decision sparked anxiety among devotees who revere the temple as a sacred Swayambhu shrine believed to have been consecrated by Ashwatthama.

Swift Political Intervention

With devotees expressing concern, Andhra Pradesh Law and Minority Welfare Minister N. M. D. Farooq stepped in and formally represented their appeal to Deputy Chief Minister and Forest Minister Pawan Kalyan.

Responding promptly, Pawan Kalyan held discussions with senior forest officials and directed that special access be granted for two days on February 14 and 15 ensuring that both religious sentiments and wildlife protection are respected.

Following the directive, Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. P.V. Chalapathi Rao issued official orders permitting regulated movement of pilgrims. The announcement triggered celebrations among devotees and local residents.

A Sacred Journey Through the Wild

Pilgrims will travel nearly 20 to 25 kilometres through dense forest stretches via designated routes from Band Atmakur, Diguvametta, and Papinenipalle. Authorities have appealed to devotees to strictly follow forest norms and safeguard the fragile ecosystem during the limited access window.

By resolving the impasse, the state government has struck a delicate balance between faith and conservation turning uncertainty into relief just in time for the holy festival.