Vijaya Dasami at Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada – October 2, 2025

On October 2, 2025, the Kanaka Durga Temple atop Indrakeeladri hill in Vijayawada radiated divine energy as thousands celebrated Vijaya Dasami, the triumphant finale of the 11-day Dasara Sharan Navaratri Utsavams. The day marked the Goddess’s victory over Mahishasura, embodied in her majestic Rajarajeshwari Devi alankaram, draped in a resplendent rani (magenta) saree.

Devotees began their pilgrimage at 4 AM, many taking a sacred dip in the Krishna River at Durga Ghat before climbing the 577 steps to the temple. Long queues buzzed with devotion, supported by free annadanam for over 50,000, special darshan for the elderly, and drone-monitored crowd management. The Maha Aarati at 9 AM saw priests chanting Vedic hymns, bathing the Goddess in milk, honey, and sandalwood paste, while the Purnahuti homam at noon symbolized the cleansing of negativities with its roaring fire.

The evening’s Teppotsavam stole the show. The Utsava Murthies of Goddess Kanaka Durga and Lord Malleswara Swamy were placed on a swan-shaped boat adorned with twinkling diyas. Gliding across the Krishna River upstream of the Prakasam Barrage, the boat completed three rounds amid eco-friendly fireworks and live Ramayana recitals. Bhavani devotees in red robes, some offering locks or carrying kalasams, added vibrant fervor to the spectacle.

Vijayawada itself came alive, with cultural stalls at the Gollapudi Exhibition showcasing folk dances like Kolattam. Live telecasts ensured even distant devotees could join the celebration. The day was a powerful reminder of triumph and faith, leaving hearts uplifted.

Jai Mata Di!

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