Mangaluru: Satyanarayana Thodtillaya (45), hailing from Kokkada village in Belthangady taluk, has been selected as the chief priest (Periya Nambi) of the renowned Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Recognized as one of India’s wealthiest temples, the position of chief priest rotates between two traditional lineages—Akkare Sabha and Ikkare Sabha. Thodtillaya, from the Akkare Sabha lineage, joined the temple as a priest six months ago. Many priests from his hometown have previously held this esteemed role. He is the son of the late Subraya Thodtillaya and is the youngest to be entrusted with performing major rituals and festivals at the temple.
Following tradition, he was honored with a ceremonial umbrella (Chhatri) by the temple administration. He will reside at Vadakkenmmbima Mutt, located on the western side of the temple, while fulfilling his religious duties.
Expressing his gratitude, Thodtillaya stated, “Faith in God should always remain steadfast. I believe this sacred responsibility is a result of my past good deeds. I am also grateful to the Thiruvankur Maharaj family.”
Encouraging devotees from Karnataka to visit, he added, “I invite all to seek the blessings of Lord Anantha Padmanabha Swamy. I will pray for Karnataka’s prosperity.”
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