Hyderabad: Minister D. Sridhar Babu praised the collective efforts of officials and volunteers that ensured the smooth conduct of the Saraswati Pushkaralu, an event that drew nearly three million devotees to the holy riverbanks.
Addressing the “Day of Thanks” gathering, Sridhar Babu acknowledged the challenges posed by the Godavari Pushkaralu on the horizon, which prompted the state government to allocate ₹40 crore to host the Saraswati Pushkaralu on a grand scale. He highlighted the government’s role in planning but credited the success to the dedication and hard work of officials at every level.
“No matter how good the ideas, their real impact comes from the sincerity and commitment of officers working on the ground,” he said. “It’s your teamwork that earned the government the goodwill of the people.”
The Minister noted the logistical complexity of managing such a massive gathering, especially with the model code of conduct already in force. He applauded officials for their swift action and seamless coordination.
Nearly 3 million pilgrims took holy dips and experienced an uninterrupted darshan of Lord Kaleshwara Muktheshwara, thanks to meticulous arrangements in security, drinking water, food, medical aid, sanitation, electricity, and cleanliness.
Sridhar Babu also singled out the innovative introduction of the “Saraswati Navaratna Mala Harathi,” performed nightly by priests from Kashi, which emerged as the festival’s main spiritual highlight.
“The event generated around ₹10 crore in revenue for TSRTC,” he noted, adding that free bus travel allowed lakhs of women to attend the festival with ease.
Despite attempts by some quarters to tarnish the event’s image by exaggerating minor issues, Sridhar Babu asserted that the administration remained unfazed and committed.
He also acknowledged the vital role of the media print, electronic, and digital in keeping devotees informed and contributing to the event’s success. “I extend my personal thanks to every media representative,” he said.
Voluntary organisations, too, earned praise for their contributions.
Looking ahead, Sridhar Babu said the government is determined to host the 2027 Godavari Pushkaralu on an even larger scale. “We will identify shortcomings from this year’s event and ensure they are not repeated,” he said. “Your continued dedication is essential, and the government stands with you.”
He announced that plans are afoot to expand the national highway to Kaleshwaram into a four-lane road and build new bus depots in key locations.
The Minister also underscored the government’s dual focus on development and welfare under Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s leadership, citing flagship initiatives like Rajiv Yuva Vikasam, Indiramma Illu, and Bhoobharati.
Concluding his address, Sridhar Babu called on officers to carry forward the same spirit of dedication to implement welfare schemes effectively at the grassroots level, cementing Telangana’s reputation for people-centric governance.