Mysuru: Deputy Commissioner D Randeep along with his wife Arpitha Raj Randeep celebrated Rama Navami in front of their official residence on Hunsur road here on Wednesday. The general public was taken aback after seeing the gesture of the deputy commissioner and his wife who were seen personally distributing Panaka and butter milk.

Randeep even though busy with his by-election duty for Nanjangud constituency, managed to spare few minutes for Rama Navami celebration. Though many organisations and people take up distribution of panaka and butter DC’s gesture seems unique.

Umesh, who works in private sector, said, “I was on my way back home after picking my wife from examination duty from Mathrumandali School. I was surprised to see deputy commissioner himself serving panaka and butter milk. Immediately I stopped my bike and had them. Really we need to appreciate their down to earth attitude and their simplicity. It’s the same with another resident Suresh who was also surprised to see DC and his wife.

Arpitha Raj Randeep said, “When we were in Bijapur we celebrated Rama Navami in a similar manner. It’s the same we did here and will continue to do the same in the years to come. Panka and butter milk will also provide respite to people from the scorching heat”.

Special prayers and offerings were given at various temples across the city.

Thousands of devotees visited Rama and Anjaneya temples in the city and many observed fasting. Various organisations including auto drivers, cab drivers and others distributed panaka and butter milk and some even Kosambari to commemorate the Rama Navami in most of the thorough fares of the city. Public made maximum use of it by having more than a glass of the festive elixirs.