Anekal
The historic Rajarajeshwari Devi Temple in Haragadde village, located under the Bangalore South Assembly constituency, witnessed a grand celebration of Shiva Deepotsavam, drawing devotees from across nearby regions. The centuries-old temple was beautifully illuminated, glowing with hundreds of oil lamps that transformed the premises into a radiant spiritual haven.
As part of the festivities, various traditional rituals were performed, including the Sahasra Modaka Homa, a significant offering in Shaiva traditions. Devotees from Haragadde, Nosennor, Dyavasandra and surrounding villages arrived in large numbers, forming long queues to seek darshan of the goddess. The atmosphere resonated with chants, prayers, and devotional music as families participated in the special homas and poojas held throughout the day.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the participation of women in the sacred rituals. Women performed lemon aarti and lit belladarati (jaggery lamps) as offerings to the goddess Rajarajeshwari. Later, the beautifully decorated festival idol of the deity was taken on a procession through the village’s main streets, accompanied by traditional music and enthusiastic devotees.
The Rajarajeshwari Temple, built in the Mangalorean architectural style, appeared resplendent with shimmering lights covering the entire structure. As evening approached, women gathered in groups to light lamps around the temple courtyard, adding to the divine ambience and marking the symbolic victory of light over darkness.
According to temple authorities, Shiva Deepotsava has now become a cherished annual tradition in the village, celebrated for the past ten years. Various religious programs are organized every Friday at the temple, attracting devotees who seek spiritual solace and blessings.
The event concluded with distribution of prasadam and blessings offered to all devotees. The grandeur and devotional fervor of this year’s Deepotsavam reaffirmed the cultural and spiritual significance of the Rajarajeshwari Devi Temple in the region.
