The Indrakeeladri temple in Vijayawada continued to be a focal point of devotion as pilgrims streamed in for the sixth day of the Dasara festivities on Saturday, September 27th.
Volunteers carrying a physically challenged person for free darshan at Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada on Saturday. | Photo Credit: G.N. Rao
Despite a slight decrease in morning footfalls compared to the previous day, the evening saw a significant surge in attendance. By 10 p.m. on Saturday, temple officials confirmed that an impressive 1,10,202 devotees had visited the sacred Sri Kanaka Durga temple. Upholding a cherished tradition, the Executive Officer of Dwaraka Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Swamy Devasthanam, N.V.S.N. Murthy, presented exquisite silk clothes and a saree to Goddess Kanaka Durga, who was magnificently adorned as Lalitha Tripurasundari Devi for the day’s special darshan. He also took the opportunity to announce that the Brahmotsavams at Dwaraka Tirumala are scheduled to take place from October 2nd to 10th.
Artistes performing Kuchipudi dance during the Dasara celebrations in Vijayawada on Saturday. | Photo Credit: G.N. Rao
Earlier in the day, notable dignitaries including Hindupur MLA N. Balakrishna and MLC A. Rajendra Prasad paid their respects at the temple, with the latter expressing his satisfaction with the extensive arrangements made for the convenience of the devotees.
The evening culminated with the Archaka Sabha, an annual gathering that has been a cornerstone of the festivities since 2009. Approximately 100 priests from prominent temples across both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana participated, chanting sacred Vedic hymns, further enriching the spiritual atmosphere of the Dasara celebrations.