'Padayatra' to protect ancient temples from Sep 16

Tirupati, Aug 6 (UNI) A 'padayatra' linking ancient rural temples in Andhra Pradesh will be held from September 16 to protect and revive their past glory.

Addressing a press conference here today Samithi General Secretary Kamal Kumar said the 'yatra' would be organised by Hindu Devalaya Parirakshana Samithi (HDPS).

The first phase would start from the Sarswathi Devi temple at Basara in Adilabad district and culminated at Tirumala, covering 13 districts. In the second phase, the yatra starting from Srikoormam in Srikakulam district would conclude at Tirumala, covering 11 districts by February next year.

The objective of the yatra was to create awareness among the public, especially in rural areas on ancient temples and utilisation of temple resources, Mr Kumar said.

During the 'yatra', they would be holding meetings with the villagers and temple priests, he added.

UNI