Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly greeted in Tiruchirappalli during his visit to the renowned Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. The temple's priests expressed joy at his presence, considering it a blessed occasion. This marks the first-ever visit by a Prime Minister to the temple and is part of Modi's tour of significant temples in Tamil Nadu, where he will also join Ramayana chanting sessions.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tiruchirappalli, receiving a warm reception from a large crowd along his route. Acknowledging the enthusiastic crowd, he waved from his vehicle.

His visit included a stop at the renowned Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, where he offered prayers. Modi was seen wearing a spotless 'veshti' (dhoti) and an angavastram (shawl). He also took blessings from the temple elephant after feeding it.

The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of India's largest temple compounds and one of the world's most remarkable religious complexes. Built during the Vijayanagara period (1336-1565), it houses the reclining Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, worshipped with deep devotion.

The temple's priests welcomed the Prime Minister with Sanskrit slogans written on the road to announce his arrival. Chief Priest Sundar Bhattar expressed his elation, stating that it was the first time a Prime Minister had visited the temple.

"All devotees of India are very happy that our PM is visiting Srirangam. Lord Ranganatha is also happy about the PM's visit. Our PM cares for everyone's welfare, and so does Ranganatha; it's a blessed occasion for Srirangam," said Bhattar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit several significant temples in Tamil Nadu on January 20-21. His first stop will be at the Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, where he will participate in the sacred rituals of Darshan and Pooja.

Continuing his tradition of attending Ramayana chanting sessions, Modi will join a special program called 'Shri Ramayana Paryana' during his time at the Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple.