BY RAVI R. PONANGI

The grand celebration of SriMahalakshmi Koti Kumkumarchana that started on Akshaya Tadiya, May 16 concluded, with events in the Hindu temple of Atlanta, Riverdale (HTA) from Aug. 20 to Aug. 22.

On Friday, August 20th Varalakshmi Vratham was performed by more than 500 devotees individually inthe presence of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Ramanuja China Jeeyar Swamiji. Swamiji explained the significance of Koti Kumkumarchana and the need to worship goddess Lakshmi. The temple witnessed memorable crowd despite inclement whether.

The three-day Ashtalaskhmi Yagam was per-formed as a part of Sri Mahalakshmi KotiKumkumarchana conclusion program from Friday, August 20th to Sunday, August 22nd in a colorful traditionally decorated Yagasala with divine chanting by eminent Vedic scholars, 15 priests along with 20 volunteer priests and many dedicated volunteers. Homams were performed in two sessions every day and was concluded with Maha Purnahuti on Sunday, August22nd followed by a very special eye pleasing Abhishekam for Lord Venkateswara, Mahalakshmiand Goda Devi. The temple also performed Ashtottara Shata Rajatha Kalasha Abhishekam (108 SilverKalasams) to SriMahalakshmi on this special occasion

HTA had drafted ten priests from India, in addition to the temple priests to perform the special pujas. All the priests from India were well trained in ancient Hindu practices. On each day, duly observing the rituals of Abhishekam, homas and archanas, priests recited various names of Sri Maha Lakshmi more than 100,000times daily for three months for a total of one crore times. Many devotees said they would never forget this wonderful occasion. Three month long program also included special Abhishekam for Sri Mahalakshmion Fridays at 7:00 PM and special Mahalakshmi Homam on Sundays at 9:00 AM. On the final day, alt he priests and office staff were felicitated with presentation of plaques for their participation and devout service for the success of Koti Kumkumarchana. Dr.Hyma Mikkilineni presented plaques to all past presidents recognizing their long years of service to HTA. Approximately 1100 kilograms of Kumkuma from India was used for the Kumkumarchana.


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