The processional idols of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba were taken on a grand chariot ride in Srisailam during the Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams on Monday. The district administration and temple team made thorough preparations for this Rathotsavam amid chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ by the devotees. The idols were first carried in a palanquin from the temple to the chariot. Priests then performed Rathanga Puja, Rathanga Homam, and Rathanga Bali as per Agama traditions. Offerings included pumpkins, coconuts, and piles of rice offered as ‘bali’. The chariot was beautifully decorated with 11 flower varieties, including marigold, chrysanthemum, and roses. Devotees pulled the chariot from the Gopuram to Nandi Circle and back. The celebrations concluded with the traditional Teppotsavam or float festival in the temple pond.