Hinduism in the New Millennium: History, Tradition, and Practice in the Goddess Festival

This chapter examines the intersection of History, society, and religion in one of the most disturbing periods of Indian history in the region of Deccan. Ruled by Kakatiya Dynasty Deccan emerged as one of the wealthy, largest and strongest empires of Deccan region between eleventh and thirteenth centuries C.E. However, from 1295 C.E. onwards this empire is subjected to numerous raids from the Sultanate, which was newly established in Delhi at the turn of the twelfth century, which was trying to gain a strong foothold by destroying as many empires as possible as quickly as possible. The southern strategy of the Sultanate brought about 11–12 quick invasions towards Deccan. These quick succession of battles brought utter destruction to the Deccan including the empires of Yadavas, Kakatiyas, and Hoyasalas. The Kakatiya empire included a number of local rulers called Nayakas, some of which are also tribal chiefs including Koya, Chenchu, and other tribes. The tribes contributed military support to the empires they were part of and fostered alliance. Hence, Kakatiya armies are supported by large contingent of Koya archery contingent and Vijayanagara contained contingents of Chenchu archers. Destruction of Kakatiya empire also brought destruction to the Koya society and way of life. Destroyed Koya temples such as Koyilakuntla Narasimha temple and numerous other goddesses' temples stand as mute witnesses to this destruction at the turn of the second millennium. However, from this destruction also rose festival of goddesses which memorializes this trauma yet indicates the arrival of new life. The goddesses Sammakka and Sarakka festival incorporates this historical background and social life of Deccan experienced in the thirteenth century. The festival of Sammakka and Sarakka is examined to help elucidate the history, memory, and practice in an effort to understand the social and religious history of the Deccan in the second millennium.