Over 59,700 devotees register for temple seva scheme across AP

Vijayawada: More than 59,700 devotees have registered under the Andhra Pradesh endowments department's temple volunteer seva scheme, which is receiving an overwhelming response from pilgrims eager to serve at major temples across the state.Inspired by the Srivari seva tradition in Tirumala, devotees are now actively participating in volunteer services at prominent temples, including Kanaka Durga Temple, Srisailam Temple, Simhachalam Temple and Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple.The endowments department is utilising volunteer services during festivals, special occasions and heavy rush periods in seven major temples and 15 other important temples across Andhra Pradesh. Volunteers are assigned duties such as crowd management in queue lines, distribution of drinking water and buttermilk, serving Annaprasadam, preparing flower garlands, decorating temple premises and assisting in hundi counting activities.Endowments commissioner Ramachandra Mohan said devotees can register through the respective temple websites by selecting the volunteer option and uploading their details along with a photograph. Registrations are also being accepted directly at temple offices. After verification, temple authorities issue identity cards to selected volunteers.Among the temples, Srisailam Temple recorded the highest registrations, with 14,920 devotees enrolling for seva activities. Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple received 10,583 registrations, while Kanaka Durga Temple registered 10,283 volunteers. Dwaraka Tirumala, Srikalahasti, Kanipakam and Simhachalam temples also witnessed strong participation from devotees. Authorities at Kanaka Durga Temple said that they are utilising the services of volunteers during weekends and holidays, which is very helpful.Officials said more than 10,000 volunteers would initially be deployed across major temples, while additional volunteers would be engaged in other temples based on festival schedules and crowd requirements. Volunteers will be provided food, accommodation, prasadam and darshan facilities during their service period.