CM Naidu’s Remarks Boost Footfall At Ardhagiri Temple

Tirupati: Devotee footfall at the Ardhagiri Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy temple in Thavanampalle mandal of Chittoor district has witnessed a sharp rise after Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu recently highlighted the shrine’s spiritual and historical importance.

During the launch of the ‘Sanjeevani’ digital healthcare project in Puthalapattu constituency on May 23, the Chief Minister referred to the temple’s association with the Ramayana and described it as a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Following his remarks, devotees from different regions have started visiting the temple in increasing numbers.

Situated on a hill at Aragonda village, around 15 km from Kanipakam and nearly 25 km from Chittoor, the Ardhagiri Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy temple is popularly known as “Ardha Giri,” meaning “half mountain.” According to temple lore, Lord Hanuman rested on the hill while carrying the Sanjeevani mountain during the Ramayana period.

Devotees believe worshipping at the shrine brings peace and good fortune. Locals said the temple earlier attracted nearly 25,000 to 30,000 devotees on every Pournami day, but the number had fallen to around 10,000 in recent years due to inadequate publicity and lack of facilities.

Despite the renewed interest, infrastructure at the temple remains insufficient. Devotees have urged the government to introduce direct bus services from Chittoor and Kanipakam and improve accommodation and sanitation facilities.

Temple officials said proposals would be submitted to strengthen transport connectivity and pilgrim amenities. They added that the AP tourism department had sanctioned ₹20 lakh for construction of toilets at the temple premises.