Andhra Pradesh declares Sirimanotsavam a State festival

Minister for MSME Kondapalli Srinivas announced that the annual Sirimanotsavam in Vizianagaram will be celebrated as a State festival. Government officials, including the Vizianagaram MP and local MLAs, offered prayers to the 'Sirimanu'—a ceremonial tamarind tree trunk—at Jonnavalasa village on Monday in preparation for the October 27 event.

Authorities expect nearly two lakh devotees to participate in the festivities. To support the event and the surrounding Vizianagaram utsavalu, the government has pledged to provide necessary funding and is making elaborate arrangements to accommodate the large crowds expected during the celebrations.

Editor's note: Brief and effective coverage of the festival status change and expected attendance.