Sravana Pournami draws thousands to Indrakeeladri temple
Thousands gathered at Indrakeeladri for Sravana Pournami, marked by Pavithrotsavams rituals and the traditional Giri Pradakshina procession.
The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam atop Indrakeeladri saw a massive influx of devotees on Friday as the temple observed Sravana Pournami, also known as Rakhi Pournami. The hill shrine was adorned with floral decorations and illuminated with special lighting for the occasion, drawing pilgrims from across the Telugu states from early morning.
The day marked the second day of the annual Pavithrotsavams, during which the temple's Vedic committee, chief priests, and scholars conducted a series of special rituals. Homams and dedicated pujas were performed at the Yagasala and the main temple as part of the ceremonies.
A key highlight was the traditional Giri Pradakshina, which commenced at the Sri Kamadhenu Ammavari shrine near the Ghat Road entrance. Temple Executive Officer V.K. Seena Naik performed special pujas and flagged off the religious procession. The route was enlivened by traditional drum performances, kolatam dances, bhajans, mangala vadyams, and Vedic chanting. Women along the path welcomed the procession with haratis and coconuts, raising devotional slogans as it wound through several localities before returning to the hill.
Temple authorities distributed kumkum and prasadam to devotees along the procession route. Given the heavy pilgrim turnout, Mr. Seena Naik conducted a detailed inspection of facilities at the main temple, sub-shrines, Ghat Road, and Durga Ghat. He reviewed queue management, drinking water availability, battery vehicle services, parking, traffic regulation, security, and cloakroom operations, directing staff to ensure uninterrupted services and proper sanitation. Free prasadam was provided to visitors, and annaprasadam was served continuously at the temple's dining hall.