Anantapur: Penukonda, the summer capital of Vijayanagar Empire where the coronation of Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya is feted annually as Penukonda Utsavalu, is scheduled to be celebrated on February 10 and 11 this year.
Though, initially the dates were January 30 and 31, it has been postponed following the Assembly sessions and also Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's visit to Penukonda on January 29.
The CM has sanctioned nearly '2 cr towards the fete and other developmental activities in Penukonda. As part of the celebrations, a trek to the hill top of Penukonda where Lord Narsimha Swamy Temple and other heritage spots are located, has been organised. At least 500 students along with officials and representatives will join the trek. District collector G. Veerapandian said, apart from the trek, several competitions will also be held. Penukonda MLA B.K. Parthasarathi said that the CM was particular about conducting a history-based festival.
“We are celebrating the annual fete in a grand manner at the summer capital of Vijayanagar Empire for two consecutive days,” B.K. Parthasarathi said and further added the government intended to complete the pending works such as the road to the hill top of Penukonda, soon. Lord Sri Lakshmi Narsimhaswamy temple was built during the Vijayanagar empire and is located at the hill top, but is in a dilapidated state. Bengaluru based Iskcon came forward to develop the temple like the golden temple two years ago. But the process is still underway with several clearances still awaited.
The district collector has asked the officials of tourism, revenue and other departments to prepare a plan about the celebrations including cultural programmes, rural sports and exhibitions. People from all parts of the district and state will be involved in the celebrations. APSRTC has also been to arrange for special buses during the celebrations. It may be noted the ‘Hampi Utsav’ had been scheduled for the first week of November, which is held every year but it was postponed following the election code of conduct due to the bypolls for Bellary LS segment as the officials were unable to complete arrangements and later cancelled.
