Columbia, SC, June 21, 2024: The Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple successfully organized the three-day Prana Pratishta Mahotsavam from June 14th to 16th with great fanfare. The event featured a series of religious ceremonies, including Ankurarpana, Sankalpam, Jalaadhivaasam, Bhoomi Pooja, Vishnu Sahasranama Homam, Sri Dasavatara Homam, and Pushpadhivasam, completed during the first two days.
On the final day, a spectacular 6-foot idol of Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy was installed in the temple, inspiring awe and delight among the devotees. The day continued with the Srinivasa Kalyanam and Rathotsavam, making it a memorable conclusion to the celebrations. The entire event was conducted in accordance with the scriptures by a group of eleven Rithviks led by Vidwan Sri Sridhara Srinivasa Bhattacharya and Vidwan Sri Madhugiri Raghava Srinivasa Narayana Bhattar.
Approximately 70 volunteers worked tirelessly for over a month to prepare for the event, ensuring a smooth experience for the hundreds of devotees who attended all three days. Music was provided by three Nadaswaram Vidwans from India – Murali V, Durgesh Murali, and Raghu R – whose performances pleased both the deity and the devotees.
At the end of the event, the Ritviks, volunteers, and musicians were felicitated for their contributions. A wonderful authentic and delicious meal was cooked by Ramakrishna and Seetha Lakshmi, a couple from Atlanta. Young participants in the Dasavathara Quiz received certificates.
Satya Srinivasa Dasa Kadali, President of the Board of Trustees, expressed hope that the temple, being the first of its kind in the USA and the second in the world, would attract tourists from across the country due to its unique nature. Other Trust members, including Dr. Lakshman Rao Oddiraju, Dr. Amarnath, Anand Padi Reddy, and Sarat Gorrepati, complimented the devotees and volunteers for their active participation.
The Indian community in Columbia aspires for the temple, with the support of Lord Venkateswara devotees worldwide, to grow and eventually relocate to a larger, more beautiful facility on a sprawling campus.4o
