A ‘Bharat Mata Temple’ was inaugurated at Pandrangi village, the birthplace of freedom fighter Alluri Sitharama Raju district, in Padmanabham mandal on Wednesday.Kamalananda Bharati Swamiji consecrated the Bharat Mata idol in presence of A.P. BJP president P.V.N. Madhav and Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao. The leaders described the temple as a tribute to India’s freedom fighters and a step towards inspiring the younger generation with the spirit of patriotism.Addressing the gathering, MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao said the idealogies and sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters should be passed on to the younger generation. He said preserving India’s cultural heritage, traditions and values was the responsibility of the present generation.He said that choosing Pandrangi for the temple would help develop the village into a major tourist destination. He also suggested establishing a museum in the temple complex with books, documents and other historical material showcasing India’s freedom struggle and national history.Mr. Madhav said remembering the sacrifices made by freedom fighters was the duty of every Indian. He also announced that a ‘Bharata Mata Parasa Mahotsavam’, a religious event would be organised at the temple on July 4 to mark the 129th birth anniversary of Alluri Sitarama Raju. Published - July 01, 2026 07:17 pm IST