Guntur, Jan 15: In Andhra culture, especially in the combined Godavari districts, it has been a centuries-old tradition for parents-in-law to treat their son-in-law as an embodiment of Lord Lakshmi Narayana. This tradition, a blend of love and respect, has now been grandly showcased in the Guntur district as well. Muralikrishna Vandanapu and his wife Lakshmi, residents of Tenali in Guntur district, married off their daughter Mounika to Sridatta from Rajahmundry last year. Following the wedding, the parents-in-law decided to make Sridatta’s first Sankranti at their home an unforgettable memory. By providing hospitality to their Rajahmundry son-in-law that surpassed even “Rajahmundry standards,” they have now gone viral.
158 Varieties of Delicacies
During the feast, the parents-in-law overwhelmed their son-in-law with a staggering 158 varieties of food. This included traditional delicacies like Ariselu, Boorelu, Gaarelu, and Bobbatlu, alongside numerous types of sweets, savories, pickles, and diverse meal items. Not only the new son-in-law but even the locals were astonished to see the dining table overflowing with these dishes.
As a result, Muralikrishna’s residence resembled a festive fair with the arrival of friends and relatives. While the women were busy preparing the delicacies, children filled the house with games and laughter. This celebration proved that our traditions are not just rituals, but a means to strengthen the love and bonds between family members.
A Delighted Son-in-Law
Sridatta expressed his immense joy at the extraordinary love and affection shown by his parents-in-law. He thanked them for giving him such an honor, noting that it is a memory he will cherish for a lifetime. Family members happily remarked that it is wonderful to see the concept of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (The Guest is God) remain so vibrant even in modern times.
