Sakambari festival commences at Indrakeeladri 

The three-day annual ‘Sakambari’ festival atop Indrakeeladri, the abode of Goddess Kanaka Durga, began on Monday, with the presiding deity being decorated as ‘Sakambari Devi’ with fruit, vegetables, green leaves and flowers.

As part of the unique tradition associated with Sakambari Devi, the goddess of vegetation and nourishment, the temple premises were adorned with a vibrant display of vegetables, leafy greens, and fruits. The first day of the festival witnessed the offering of nearly 10 tonnes of fresh produce, all of which were contributed by generous donors and devotees. 

The devotees from across the State thronged the temple to offer a variety of vegetables, including carrots, ladyfingers, cabbage and tomatoes. Many varieties of fruits and flowers were also used as ornaments to deck up the deity. 

A green canopy was spread on the pathway leading to the sanctum sanctorum from the ghat road, giving an entirely new appearance to the temple premises. Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been made for the festival.

The festivities began with traditional rituals and floral decorations marking the commencement of the three-day event. The inauguration ceremony was led by executive officer V.K. Seena Naik, Maha Mandapam, while over 200 individuals, including Vedic scholars, members of the Vaidika committee, temple staff, and volunteers, participated in the event.

The executive officer highlighted the deep symbolism of the celebration, stating that the goddess represents nature and fertility, and decorating her with natural offerings is a prayer for timely rains and agricultural prosperity. He said that the temple follows this tradition each year from ‘Ashada Shuddha Trayodashi’ to ‘Ashada Pournami’, aligning with the agricultural season.

He said that darshan for devotees will continue without any change in schedule throughout the festival. The festival will conclude on July 10, with ‘Maha Poornahuti’ and ‘Kalashodvasana’. Temple officials expressed gratitude to all the devotees who contributed to the decorations and invited everyone to experience the spiritual vibrance.