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The temple of Yellamma at Bekkarapalli has
built up certain special traditions that show the worshippers unswerving
faith, which sometimes are dismissed by cynics as blind beliefs. The deity
is quite big in size and wears fierce aspect, as it is common with 'Bali
Priyas' and classed one among the 'Kshudra Devatas'. Prayer services too
are quite queer, when compared with the goddess who takes 'Satiwika Puja'.
The Yellamma Jatra attracts lakhs of people and is the star attraction of
this place. The deity is invited to preside over the function, with mud
pots filled with water and chanted Margosa stems. Special prayers are
offered by ladies, who are almost naked without outfit, but covering their
bodies with knee garlands. They march to the temple in procession to the
accompaniment of instrumental music. It is a unique tradition, practiced
nowhere.
Due to receipt of Mother's abundant grace with such exotic worship, the
number is waxing with the passage of time. One more of similar nature is
practiced at Chandragutti village in
Karnataka ,
where men and women visit the temple and offer prayers absolutely naked.
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