Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The annual Shakambari Utsavam at Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam atop Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada commenced on a grand note on Wednesday. The deity, Goddess Durga, was splendidly decorated in the form of Shakambari Devi, adorned with an array of vegetables, fruits, leafy greens, and flowers, captivating scores of devotees from across the Telugu states.

The main temple and its sub-shrines were artistically embellished with garlands made of vegetables, transforming the entire hill temple into a lush green spectacle. Large numbers of devotees thronged the temple premises to offer prayers and fulfil their vows, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

As part of the inaugural day rituals, Temple Executive Officer (EO) S. Sreenu Naik participated in the special pujas. According to temple authorities, nearly 50 tonnes of vegetables were used for decorations and the preparation of Kadambam prasadam. The produce was generously donated by patrons from Godavari, Krishna, and Guntur districts.

To ensure a smooth darshan experience, temple officials made elaborate arrangements in advance. The Shakambari Utsavams, which span three days, will conclude on July 10. In view of the special events, the temple has suspended special and inner sanctum darshans from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. throughout the festival.

Meanwhile, in a notable development, the temple authorities deposited 29.510 kilograms of gold ornaments, offered by devotees to Sri Kanaka Durga, in a fixed deposit at the State Bank of India (SBI), Gandhi Nagar branch. EO Sreenu Naik stated that the move aims to generate additional revenue for the temple. Speaking to the media, he explained that the deposited gold, valued at approximately Rs.26.58 crore as per current market rates, will fetch the temple an annual interest of 0.60%, contributing to its financial sustainability.

The gold transfer process was conducted with full transparency under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner of Endowments Pallam Raju, Jewellery Verification Officer Subrahmanyam, and temple Assistant Executive Officers Chandrashekar and Ramesh Babu. The gold was officially handed over to bank authorities in a documented procedure. Temple officials emphasised that converting gold offerings into interest-generating deposits helps strengthen the financial foundation of the shrine while upholding the trust of devotees.