The Indrakeeladri hill, abode of goddess Kanaka Durga, glowed with divine radiance as thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate Karthika Pournami, one of the most spiritually significant events in the temple’s annual calendar. The entire hill shimmered under the glow of countless lamps, creating a mesmerising sight of devotion and light.The evening’s highlight was the grand “Lakh Deepotsavam”, in which devotees lit over one lakh ghee lamps, symbolically dispelling darkness and invoking divine light. The temple complex, including the main sanctum, Rajagopuram, Kanaka Durga Nagar, Mahamandapam and the Shiva temple precincts, was beautifully illuminated, transforming the entire hill into a radiant spiritual beacon.Following the Deepotsavam, priests performed the ancient “Jwala Toranam” ritual at the Shiva temple — a traditional fire ceremony in which a large garland made of paddy sheaves is lit, symbolizing the burning away of sins, negativity and evil forces.Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam Trust Board chairperson Borra Radhakrishna (Gandhi) and executive officer (E.O.) V.K. Seena Naik and others were present.A special Anna Santarpana (community meal) was organised at the newly constructed Pooja Mantapam. Many devotees observing the Karthika Pournami fast concluded their penance after offering lamps to Sri Malleswara Swamy and partaking in the sacred Anna Prasadam. The entire festival concluded in an atmosphere of peace, devotion and divine grace.Published - November 05, 2025 09:57 pm IST