Ainavilli Vinayaka Temple To Distribute 2.5 Lakh Worshipped Pens

KAKINADA: Authorities of the famous Sri Vinayaka Temple at Ainavilli in Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema district began distribution of devotional items to students and devotees on Sunday on the occasion of Ratha Saptami celebrations.

P. Gannavaram MLA Giddi Satyanarayana officially started the distribution at the temple. A large number of students and pilgrims thronged the shrine to receive pens after darshan of Lord Vinayaka.

Temple deputy commissioner and executive officer Mudunuri Satyanarayana Raju said around 40,000 pens were distributed to around 16,000 students and over 10,000 devotees on Sunday.

He said that the unique practice of worshiping Lord Vinayaka with pens started in 2006 on Sri Panchami (Magha masa Panchami tithi). The worship items are distributed every year on Ratha Saptami. While usually around one lakh pens are distributed annually, the number has increased to 2.5 lakh this year due to increased donations.

Raju said more than 11,000 donors contributed online this year, allowing the temple to issue a larger number of items. As per the temple’s practice, devotees who donate Rs 250 are given 10 pens, which are sent through post if they cannot visit the temple. Five pens are given to devotees who perform Garika Pooja.

He said that a committee consisting of village elders and Foundation officials is established every year to approve the purchasing process. Tenders are invited and the committee selects the supplier in accordance with the set norms.

Devotees believe that receiving the worshiped pens from Lord Vinayaka helps students overcome obstacles in education and achieve success in their exams.