In West Godavari district, the Akividu Municipality has approved a resolution to rebuild a 100-year-old Ramalayam temple in Peddapeta. The decision came during a council meeting on April 21 at the municipal office, with 19 of 20 members supporting the plan.
The temple has deteriorated over many years and will now be restored with community support. Records from 1932 confirm the existence of a Ramalayam at the location. The approval occurred despite concerns from some local Christian converts about possible community conflicts.
MLA Raghurama Krishnam Raju told reporters that while no official resolution was necessary for restoring the existing structure, the council adopted one to honor public sentiment and address any potential legal issues.
Background:
This municipal action follows a clash on March 27 during Sri Rama Navami celebrations, which highlighted the matter.
The incident started when Andhra Pradesh Deputy Speaker and Undi MLA Raghurama Krishnam Raju visited the Sriramalayam temple in Peddapeta, Akividu, with worshippers for prayers.
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According to his account, during the visit to view the deity Rama, a group reportedly posing as Dalits from the Christian community chanted slogans. After he left, they allegedly assaulted attendees with knives, causing injuries to several people.
Authorities filed charges against 58 individuals, who were detained and presented in court on March 28.
On March 29, MLA Raghurama Krishnam Raju announced that the historic Ramalayam in Peddapeta, Akividu, would be rebuilt under the guidance of leading Hindu groups and architect Dr. Emani Sivanagireddy.
He noted that the structure would follow traditional architectural, vastu, and ritual guidelines, using Krishna stone, and be designed to endure for at least 800 years without damage.
