Sankranti celebrations hit the roof

Khammam: The three-day Sankranti festivities began on a colourful note across the district here on Sunday. Though the grandeur of the festival could be experienced in its true essence in villages, the city too was soaked in the festive spirit here in Khammam.

For many, the festival evokes fond memories of grand rangolis with Gobbemmalu, Bhogi Mantalu, Bhogi Pallu (a manner of blessing children), listening to the devotional songs by Haridasulu and offering them rice and other donations, revering the Ganigreddu and etc.

A ritualistic bonfire was lit in the early morning on Sunday in front of houses and in colonies to consign all negativities of the past in the fire and usher in spring.

S Vishweshara chary, a purohit said Makara Sankranti has a special significance in the Hindu calendar. The festival heralds the onset of summer. He further added that each day of the festival signifies a different aspect of the season.

Meanwhile, several women and peoples’ organisations conducted rangoli competitions for women at town and mandal headquarters.

The Goda Devi and Ranganatha Swamy Kalyanam was performed at certain temples on the occasion. In Nayakangudem of Kusumanchi mandal, the Kalyanam was performed on a grand note at the Balaji Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple with more than 100 members of couples along with other devotees taking part in the celebrations.

Since the government announced three days holidays, several educational institutions along with some private organisations remained closed.

The bus stands and railway stations witnessed heavy rush with passengers from Friday night which continued until Sunday morning. Kites stalls have dotted various areas of the city.