Wed Jan 15 16:52:09 UTC 2025: ## 400-Year-Old Chariot Procession Draws Thousands in Andhra Pradesh

**VIJAYAWADA, Andhra Pradesh (January 15, 2025)** – Thousands of spectators gathered in B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district on Wednesday to witness the 400-year-old Prabhalu Teertham festival. The highlight of the event was a grand procession of fifteen chariots, each representing a village in Ambajipeta mandal, carrying portraits of Lord Siva.

Locals, carrying the chariots – known as ‘Prabhalu’ – on their shoulders, paraded through paddy fields and across irrigation canals, culminating at Jagannathota. The procession, a vibrant display of local custom and tradition, attracted visitors from across the Godavari region, many arriving via bullock cart. Enthusiastic onlookers chased the chariots, capturing videos of the spectacle.

This year’s event saw a significant increase in participation compared to last year, with fifteen chariots compared to eleven. Police maintained a strong presence, ensuring a peaceful event unlike last year when a spectator was injured. The festival, celebrated on Kanuma, concluded without incident.

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