Mon Nov 04 13:08:38 UTC 2024: ## Devotees Flock to Shiva Temples for Karthika Masam in Andhra Pradesh
**VIZIANAGARAM/SRIKAKULAM, November 4, 2024:** Lord Shiva temples across Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts saw a surge in devotees on the first Monday of Karthika Masam, a significant Hindu month. Special prayers and rituals were conducted at various temples, with a particular focus on the ‘Dwadasa Jyotirlingams’ at Sri Pashupathinatheswara Swamy temple in Vizianagaram.
The highlight of the day was the ‘Ksheerabhisekham’ performed on the Shivalingam by priests, who also explained the significance of Karthika Masam to the gathering. In another part of the district, ‘Rudrabhisekham’ was performed at the renowned Mudu Kovellu temple near Vizianagaram fort.
Similar festivities marked the day in Srikakulam district, where prominent temples such as Srimukhalingam, Endala Mallikarjuna Swamy temple, Umarudra Koteswara Alayam, and Shiva Balaji temple witnessed special prayers and ‘Rudrabhisekhams.’
To ensure the safety of devotees taking holy dips in the Nagavali and Vamsadhara rivers during the auspicious month, the police department has deployed officers at various locations.
First Piper 