Visakhapatnam: Famous temples in the state like Simhachalam, Annavaram and Srisailam are developing nurseries of saplings associated with birth stars as per the Indian astrology to give ‘green prasadam’, apart from the regular laddoo and pulihora prasadam, to the devotees. Saplings associated with th e12 zodiac signs are being grown in these nurseries. In Vizag, the Simhachalam Devas-thanam Board is growing these saplings in 50 acres. The move is aimed at encouraging greenery to control environment pollution.
The Indian astrology is based on the concept of ‘nakshatras’ (stars) and ‘rashis’ - moon signs and also speaks of 27 stars. Each star is attributed to one tree and a presiding deity. "Apart from the regular prasadam, these saplings associated with birth stars will be offered to the devotees. Though we have not yet decided the price, it will be nominal. The idea is to promote this interest among public to grow trees to control pollution. At the same time, it is also part of ‘dharma pracharam’ to spread the message of our saints and sages. At Annavaram temple, we have already started giving this green prasadam," endowments commissioner Y.V. Anuradha told this correspondent.
It is also difficult to get authentic trees associated with stars and zodiac signs at private nurseries. There are 27 stars present in a year and every individual has a star assigned to him/her depending on the date and time they are born. It is believed that each tree keeps giving energy to that particular person born during that particular star. So any ailments or health problems get healed or cured when one spends or meditates near or under that particular tree, corresponding to their star.
The endowments commissioner added that the Vizag nursery is located near the Goshala run by the Simhachalam temple in Adavivaram. These saplings are also being procured from private nurseries. The Simhachalam temple administration had already started giving dry fruits prasadam which is beneficial for devotees having diabetes. Almonds, cash-ews, walnuts, dried dates, raisins are being sold as prasadam.
