Andhra Pradesh Government Plans Tourism Boost for Bara Shaheed Dargah

Tirupati: Municipal administration minister Dr Ponguru Narayana on Friday said the Andhra Pradesh government is planning to develop the historic Bara Shaheed Dargah in Nellore into a major tourism destination as the annual Rottela Panduga continues to attract lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad.

Speaking to reporters after offering the traditional roti for the state's prosperity at the festival, the Minister said the 412-year-old dargah has witnessed a steady increase in pilgrim footfall over the years. He said around 15 lakh devotees are expected to attend this year's five-day festival.

Narayana said the government had made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festival. More than 6,000 municipal workers, 1,600 police personnel, trained swimmers and boats have been deployed, while free medical camps have been set up for devotees arriving from different parts of the country and abroad.

He said special attention had been given to maintaining the cleanliness of Swarnala Cheruvu and appealed to devotees to help keep the festival premises clean. He added that pilgrims were expected to continue visiting for several days even after the official conclusion of the festival.

Recalling earlier initiatives, Narayana said the Rottela Panduga was recognised as a state festival during the 2014-19 government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He said infrastructure and public amenities were upgraded after 2014, contributing to the steady rise in the number of devotees visiting the shrine.

Ongole MP Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy appreciated the arrangements and suggested developing the adjoining lake into a tank bund to enhance the area.

Waqf Board chairman Abdul Azeez described the Rottela Panduga as a symbol of communal harmony and said CCTV cameras and drones had been deployed for security. He added that the Gandham Mahotsavam would be held on the night of June 27 and was expected to draw a large number of devotees.