Fish prasadam to be administered on June 8-9, 30% more crowd expected

HYDERABAD: The annual fish prasadam distribution, which usually starts in the morning, will be administered from 6pm on June 8 till 6pm on June 9 this year.
The change in timings is because Mrigasira Karti day, which is auspicious, begins in the evening this time, according to Hindu calendar. Mrigasira Karti marks the onset of monsoon and is the day on which the prasadam has the most effect, according to the Bathini brothers, whose family has been administering the prasadam for generations.

The annual event will be held at Exhibition Grounds, Nampally. The prasadam is said to help people suffering from asthma and respiratory ailments. “Last time about 4 lakh people attended the event. This year, we are expecting a 30-40% rise in numbers,” said Bathini Harinath Goud, addressing a press meet along with family members on Wednesday. When asked why there has been an increase in numbers, he said pollution was to blame for more people complaining of breathing difficulties.
Goud said, “On the orders of chief minister, the chief secretary held a review meeting with concerned departments to take stock of the situation. The fisheries department will provide two lakh fishlings this year.”
The fish prasadam is provided free of cost by the Bathini family. Those requiring it have to pay the minimal cost of the fishling, proceeds from which go to the government. “There will be 42 counters to help people. At the barricades itself, people will be clearly directed which counter they have to go to,” said Amarnath Goud, son of Harinath Goud.
Those who miss out on getting the prasadam for any reason can avail it from Bathini family home in Kavadiguda.