08-07-2025
Indrakeeladri decked out in green as Sakambari festival gets off to a colourful start
The Sakambari Utsavams commenced with grandeur atop Indrakeeladri, where Goddess Sri Kanaka Durga is venerated in her nourishing form as Sakambari Devi, the granter of food and vegetation. Indrakeeladri has taken on a lush green hue, reflecting the Goddess's 'harita' (verdant) form.
The main sanctum, Mahamandapam, and sub-shrines are richly adorned in green decorations, signifying the Goddess's compassion and nurturing aspect. The 'utsava murti' (processional idol) is also draped in green as per tradition on Tuesday.
Devotees from across Andhra Pradesh and various parts of India are arriving in large numbers to witness and take part in this unique celebration, which will conclude on July 10.
On the first day alone, approximately 50 tonnes of vegetables were used for temple decoration and preparation of Kadambam, the special prasadam associated with Sakambari Utsavams. The vegetables were voluntarily donated by farmers and patrons from Godavari, Krishna, and Guntur districts.
The tradition of Sakambhari Utsavams was initiated on Indrakeeladri in 2007. To ensure adherence to scriptural norms, the temple priests and Vedic scholars had visited the Bhadrakali temple in Warangal, where similar festivals are performed annually, and replicated the practice at Vijayawada.
Kadambam, a specially prepared prasadam made of vegetables, rice, and red gram, will be distributed free of cost to devotees from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the festival duration, temple Executive Officer V.K. Seenanayak informed. He inspected the Kadambam preparation site in the afternoon and issued key instructions to ensure quality and hygiene.
Since inception, the festival has grown in scale, with local farmers and vendors voluntarily donating vegetables needed for the utsavam, including prasadam preparation. The temple is adorned with vibrant displays of vegetables and leafy greens.
For the residents of Vijayawada, Kadambam prasadam has become synonymous with the Sakambari festivities — its wholesome preparation and devotional significance making it an eagerly awaited tradition.
Temple authorities have ensured smooth arrangements for the devotees, and the EO has urged the public to participate in the festival with devotion and discipline.
