Vijayawada: The new ‘yaga shala’ being constructed at Sri Kanaka Durga temple atop Indrakeeladri has kicked up a controversy as the place identified for it was earmarked for greenery by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
In fact, the Annadana Bhavanam, which was there earlier, had been demolished to allow the space for greenery but in contrast, Bhumi Puja has been performed for a new Yaga Shala, exclusively meant for Chandi Homam.
Giving clarification on the objections raised by a section of Vaastu followers, the Sree Durga Malleswara Swamy Devasthanam (SDMSD) executive officer A. Suryakumari said the construction of the fourth yaga shala would be done as per Aagama and Vaastu rules only.
“It would not affect the the vertical garden works,” the EO said and added they are also planning to construct Unjal Mandapam in the vertical garden.
“The time of Homam rituals and Unjal Seva will not overlap,” the EO clarified and added that in view of the growing number of devotees for Chandi Homam, they have taken this decision.
Speaking about the design and construction, she said 16 pillars would come up in the yaga shala. It will have granite flooring and rock roof instead of grass roof, as it would facilitate free flow of 'Homa Dhumam', into the open air.
“Only 1/8th of the space of the dismantled Annadana Bhavanam is being used for construction of Yaga Shala.”
