Kakinada: After a gap of three months, the marriage season is set to begin again from November 30 and will continue till December 18 this year. All kalyana mandapams and temple venues in Kakinada have already been booked for weddings.
As part of their vow, many people perform marriages at temples of Lord Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Murthy Temple at Annavaram in Kakinada district and Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Dwaraka Tirumala, known as “China Tirupati” in Eluru district.
Facilities at these pilgrim centres are limited. Hence, there is always a rush to book the available venues. However, in case more marriage parties arrive at these temples, they can make their arrangements on open grounds atop the hills.
Devotees have requested temple authorities to construct pandals with palm-leaves on the open grounds, so that they could easily perform weddings.
Meanwhile, contractors dealing with decorations and supplying tents are collecting huge amounts. Devotees say authorities must intervene and come to the rescue of people. It is alleged that there is no proper supervision by authorities on prices charged due to which people are being exploited.
Annavaram Temple executive officer N.V.S.N. Murthy said they are letting out venues and accommodation as per availability. He pointed out that two rooms for bridegroom and two rooms for bride are being allotted at present. Murthy said a dormitory hall and a cottage containing 138 rooms will be constructed on Ratnagiri Hills soon. Once these are completed, more accommodation can be provided to devotees.
Dwaraka Tirumala Temple executive officer Vendra Trinadha Rao said that there are 210 rooms and nine kalyana mandapams available at the temple. All facilities will be provided for marriages without causing any inconvenience to people. He said open grounds and auditoriums are also available at the temple for performing marriages.
