Kadapa: This Saturday, on the occasion of Ugadi, which marks the first day of the year according to the Hindu calendar, thousands of Muslim devotees from Kadapa showed up to offer their prayers to Lord Venkateswara. For many years now, hundreds of Muslims have been visiting the Devuni Kadapa Sri Laxmi Venkateswara Swamy temple every year on the day of this festival. This is said to be the result of the communal harmony in Kadapa.
Muslims consider Bibi Nacharamma, who was married to Lord Venkateswara, a daughter of the community. Consequently, they consider Lord Venkateswara as their son-in-law and therefore, present gifts to their son-in-law every year on the occasion.
In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, the priests Macha Seshacharyulu and Trivikram explained that this practice has been observed over centuries and that Muslims make the first prayer every year on Ugadi day.
“Additionally, Muslim devotees present saris and other materials to their daughter Bibi Nancharamma,” they said.
