The usual rush of devotees for Dasara is missing at Sri Rajarajeswari Devi Temple in Nellore on Sunday

Nellore, October 14, 2013: The heavy rush of devotees usually seen during Dasara festival is not to be seen this time as there seems to be confusion over the actual day of the celebrations.

A poor turnout was witnessed at major temples in Nellore city on Sunday. Even the endowment officials attributed it to the confusion over the actual festival day.

The priests decorated the Sri Irukala Parameswari Devi alankaram for the festival. A good number of devotees are expected at the temple here on Monday, when many offices also announce a holiday for the festival.

The officials of Rajarajeswari Devi Temple have made all arrangements for the festival.

Pomp and gaiety marked Dasara celebrations in Kurnool district on Sunday. However, some confusion over the date of the festival prevailed. Majority of people preferred to celebrate on Sunday while a small portion postponed the celebrations to Monday.

The organisers of Devaragattu festival postponed the fete to Monday. Meanwhile, colourful processions were taken out to “sami vruksha” by people who collected the leaves of the trees and exchanged it with friends, well-wishers and family members as per the tradition.

The people in the procession carried traditional weapons and sought courage from the Almighty. In Kurnool city, the police made arrangements for the festival when riots took place.

Meanwhile, a heavy rush was reported at Srisailam on Sunday. Devotees thronged the temple for darshan on Dasara.

Source: The Hindu, October 14, 2013