Sakambari Festival Begins at Indrakeeladri Temple

The three-day Sakambari festival began on July 7, 2025, at the Kanaka Durga Temple on Indrakeeladri hill in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The event is a special occasion where the presiding deity is adorned as Sakambari Devi, the goddess of nourishment and vegetation. It holds deep cultural and religious importance, drawing devotees from across the state.

A Unique Celebration of Nature and Devotion

The Sakambari festival is known for its unique tradition of decorating the goddess with vegetables, fruits, green leaves, and flowers. On the first day of the festival, about 10 tonnes of fresh produce were offered by devotees and donors. Items like carrots, ladyfingers, tomatoes, and cabbages were used along with various fruits and flowers to adorn the deity. A green canopy was also placed along the path leading to the temple’s sanctum, giving the area a fresh and festive look.

Tradition and Meaning Behind the Festival

Sakambari Devi is believed to be the goddess of vegetation, nature, and fertility. The festival is celebrated every year from Ashada Shuddha Trayodashi to Ashada Pournami, which usually falls during the monsoon season. It is seen as a way to pray for good rains and rich harvests, supporting farmers and the environment. The temple Executive Officer V.K. Seena Naik explained that the decorations symbolize devotion to nature and a prayer for agricultural well-being.

Ceremonies, Arrangements, and Final Day

The event started with traditional rituals and floral decorations. Over 200 people, including Vedic scholars, Vaidika committee members, temple staff, and volunteers took part in the celebrations. The temple has also made tight security arrangements to manage the crowd. Devotees will be allowed for darshan (viewing of the deity) without any changes in the regular timings. The festival will end on July 10 with special ceremonies like Maha Poornahuti and Kalashodvasana.