Bhadrachalam: Traditional Kalavahana and Jeernoddharana Anujna rituals were performed at the Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple here on Sunday, marking the commencement of its ambitious expansion and renovation works.

As part of the ceremonies conducted under the guidance of Chinna Jeeyar Swamy, 72 deities were ritually invoked into sacred pots and shifted to a temporary shrine (Balalayam) at Ranganayakula Gutta. The rituals began with the ceremonial procession of 30 sacred water pots collected from the Godavari River, accompanied by traditional music.

Vedic scholars performed Vishwaksena Puja, Punyahavachanam and homams as part of the process. Idols of Lakshmi and Goda Devi were also relocated within the temple premises as per tradition, while recitations and worship will continue near the sacred pots from Monday.

The Telangana government has taken up the temple's expansion in a phased manner, with Rs 351 crore allocated for the first phase. Speaking on the occasion, Chinna Jeeyar Swamy expressed hope that the temple, revered as "Dakshina Ayodhya", would be fully developed and equipped to receive devotees ahead of the upcoming Pushkaram festival.

He highlighted the temple's rich traditions, including the historic patronage dating back to Tanisha and the global significance of Sri Rama Navami celebrations held here. The seer emphasised that while development is essential, preserving age-old customs remains equally important.