Deputy Collector S. Srinivasa Murthy, hailing from the Revenue Department, officially assumed his duties as the Executive Officer (EO) at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Devasthanam in Simhachalam on a serene Sunday.

In a symbolic gesture, Mr. Murthy inked his signature on the sacred official documents, marking the transition of power from the former in-charge EO, V. Trinadha Rao. For the past several years, the Simhachalam temple had been under the stewardship of interim leadership.

In a significant move, the government has entrusted the role of the EO to Deputy Collector Murthy. He now joins the lineage of previous EOs from the Revenue Department, making him the sixth in the last two decades to hold this esteemed position in the Endowments records.

In his inaugural address, the newly appointed EO expressed his commitment to familiarize himself with the temple's current circumstances and pledged to collaborate with his dedicated team to resolve any challenges that may arise.

He emphasized his intention to seek input from various stakeholder groups to enhance the amenities and services offered at the shrine.

Srinivasa Murthy underscored his belief in divine guidance and attributed his appointment as EO to the grace of the Almighty. He assured that his administration would be characterized by collaboration and consensus, assuring that no unilateral decisions would be made under his leadership.

Before delving into his new responsibilities, Mr. Murthy paid a visit to the temple, inspecting the bungalow designated as his official residence. Authorities had prepared the EO's residential quarters at the former Goshala of the Devasthanam, ensuring his comfort and proximity to the sacred site.

Subsequently, the EO conducted an extensive evaluation of the facilities provided for Annadanam (the practice of offering food to devotees) and took the opportunity to engage with the temple's devoted followers.