Chandanotsavam-the annual ritual-at Sri Varanrusimha Swamy temple in Simhachal of Vishakapatnam has begun this morning. A large number of devotees thronged the temple today to have a glimpse of the original form of the deity.

It has to be noted that only on Chandanotsavam day, the original form of the deity will be shown unlike other days wherein the deity will be covered with thick layers of sandal paste.

Notably, the legend has it that normal persons cannot bear the ugra (angry) form of the deity and from the heat emitted from the deity except on Chandanotsavam. That’s the reason why the idol will be covered with sandal paste.

Also people will move around the streets encircling the Simhachalam hill during Chandanotsava.

This early morning, the temple priests removed the sandal paste on the deity and performed abhishekam after which people were allowed to have Nijarupadarshanam (original form of the deity).

The Nijarupadarsham will conclude in the night after performing special rituals. Sandal paste would then be applied again.

While it is believed that the deity self manifested here as Sri Varahanrusimha Swamy, the locals call Lord as Simhadri Appanna.

People from several parts of country bee line at the temple to seek blessing of Lord on Chandanotsavam. Notably, large number of devotees come from Odisha. (Phani)