Amaravati, February 11, 2026: The annual Maha Sivaratri Brahmotsavams began at the Srikalahasteeswara Swamy Temple in Srikalahasti with the ceremonial hoisting of the sacred Dhwajapatam, or flag, atop the gold-gilded flag post.
Priests performed a homam, sprinkled holy water, and adorned the post with devotee-offered saris before raising the flag amid Vedic chants. This marked the start of the 13-day festival, which runs through February 23.
A procession of the Pancha Moorthis on a silver Ambari, known as Gramotsavam, followed. Local leaders, including family members of the MLA and temple officials, joined the rituals. Devotees offered special contributions like clothing and medicines.
