The festival of Annakoot was celebrated with great devotion and grandeur in Kashi (Varanasi) and Ayodhya. Thousands of devotees gathered in temples to offer prayers, enjoy divine bhog (food offerings), and take part in colorful processions. The event marks the day when devotees offer a mountain of food to the deities, thanking them for abundance and nourishment.
Massive Offerings in Kashi’s Temples
In Kashi, over 500 temples participated in the Annakoot celebrations. Together, they offered around 5,000 quintals of food and sweets to various deities. Devotees prepared and offered dishes ranging from roti-sabzi, poori, kachori, to sweets and snacks.
At the Annapurna Temple, a grand 511 quintals (51,100 kg) of food was offered to Goddess Annapurna. This included 56 types of bhog (known as ‘Chhappan Bhog’). 105 skilled cooks prepared the huge quantity of offerings. Special spices and ghee were brought from Nepal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu to maintain the traditional taste and quality.
Decorated Temples and Grand Processions
Temples across the city were decorated with colorful flowers and lights. At the Mani Mandir in Dharmsangh, bhog was brought from more than 5,000 households, and a separate 101 quintals of food was specially arranged. 500 young boys (batuks) sang Ganesh Vandana during the prayers.
A grand Shobha Yatra (procession) was held in Kashi, showcasing divine scenes. The appearance of Goddess Chamundeshwari, seated calmly on skulls after performing destruction, attracted many eyes. The procession also included fearsome forms of Goddess Kali, with ghosts and spirits walking in front, creating a unique devotional atmosphere.
Special Offerings in Major Temples
The Durga Temple saw 100 quintals of offerings, Kashi Vishwanath Temple received 21 quintals, and Ram Templeand Gopal Temple offered 51 quintals each. Temples of Kal Bhairav, Batuk Bhairav, and Shri Krishna also had 21 quintals of bhog.
Moreover, At Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the sanctum sanctorum was decorated with 500 kg of laddoos. A special silver idol of the deity was placed for Aarti and Bhog, and 6 quintals 51 kg of sweets were offered.
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Annakoot Celebrations in Ayodhya
In Ayodhya, temples like Siyaram Kila, Laxman Kila, and Hanumat Niwas observed the festival with equal enthusiasm. Lord Sitaram and other deities were offered 56 varieties of food, known as Chhappan Bhog.
In Hanumat Niwas, devotees sang traditional songs called “Jehvanar ke Pad” while offering food to the deities. Large crowds of devotees, including families, gathered from the morning to participate in worship and receive Mahaprasad (holy food).
A Festival of Faith and Gratitude
Annakoot is not just a festival of food but a celebration of gratitude and devotion. From massive food offerings to beautiful decorations and musical prayers, the event reflects the deep connection between the devotees and their deities. Kashi and Ayodhya, both spiritual centers of India, once again became centers of faith, unity, and joy during this grand celebration.
