Confrontation Over Coconut Shell Tender At Kolanubharathi Temple

Dispute over a tender for collecting coconut shells at the historic Kolanubharathi temple in Nandyal district has led to a major confrontation between two groups. This has prompted the Srisailam Devasthanam to postpone the tender process.

Kolanubharathi temple, located in the Nallamala forests, is managed by the Srisailam Devasthanam. Thousands of parents visit the temple every year to perform the traditional Aksharabhyasam ceremony before Kolanu Bharathi Ammavaru. The temple has also emerged as a pilgrimage and tourist destination in recent years.

Srisailam Devasthanam had invited tenders for collecting coconut shells left by devotees visiting the temple. Two groups trying to secure the contract reportedly ended up quarrelling at the temple premises, leading to a confrontation. Authorities have announced postponing of the tender process.

Devotee Y. Manoranjan Reddy said the confrontation has shocked pilgrims visiting the temple. “People come to this sacred place with faith and devotion. Witnessing groups fighting over a tender is deeply disturbing. It is unfortunate that political disputes are reaching even religious places,” Manoranjan Reddy commented.

The centuries-old temple has gained wider recognition after Srisailam Devasthanam has taken it over and developed it with special funds. Its popularity has also increased through social media, attracting devotees from different parts of the state.

Srisailam Devasthanam chairman P. Ramesh Naidu said the tender process had been temporarily put on hold following the dispute. “We will take a decision on the matter shortly,” he said.