Sri Durga Malleswara
Swamyvarla Devasthanam, popularly known as Kanaka Durga
Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in South India. Dedicated
to Goddess Kanaka Durga, this temple stands majestically on the Indrakeeladri
Hill, overlooking the sacred Krishna River, in Vijayawada, Andhra
Pradesh, India.
Scriptural Significance
The temple finds mention
in ancient scriptures such as the Kaalika Purana, Durga Saptashati,
and other Vedic texts. These sacred writings describe Kanaka Durga as a Swayambhu
(self-manifested) deity who appeared during the Triteeya Kalpa, making
this temple a spiritually potent site for devotees seeking divine blessings.
Legend of Indrakeeladri
The hill is named after Sage
Indrakila, who performed intense penance to invoke the goddess. When she
appeared, he requested her to reside permanently on his head (symbolically, the
hilltop) to protect the region from evil forces. Granting his wish, Goddess
Durga made Indrakeeladri her eternal abode, and later vanquished the demon Mahishasura,
restoring peace and dharma.
Alankaram Schedule – 2025
- September 22
– Sri Bala Tripura Sundari Devi: The youthful form of Adi Shakti,
representing divine innocence and charm.
- September 23
– Sri Gayatri Devi: Embodiment of Vedic wisdom, often depicted with
five faces symbolizing the five elements.
- September 24
– Sri Annapurna Devi: Goddess of nourishment, holding a pot of
sweet nectar and a gem-studded garland.
- September 25
– Sri Katyayani Devi: Fierce warrior goddess who destroyed evil
forces, invoked for strength and courage.
- September 26
– Sri Mahalakshmi Devi: Bestower of wealth and prosperity, seated
on a lotus with Varada and Abhaya mudras.
- September 27
– Sri Lalitha Tripura Sundari Devi: Supreme beauty and ruler of the
three worlds, associated with Sri Chakra worship.
- September 28
– Sri Maha Chandi Devi: Fierce protector and destroyer of demonic
forces, invoked through Chandi Path and Homam.
- September 30
– Sri Durga Devi: Central form of Shakti, symbolizing protection
and divine motherhood.
- October 01
– Sri Mahisasura Mardini: Slayer of the demon Mahishasura,
representing victory of good over evil.
- October 02
– Sri Rajarajeswari Devi: Supreme sovereign of the universe.
Celebrated with Hamsa Vahana Seva and Teppotsavam (float
festival on the Krishna River).
How to Reach
- By Road:
Well-connected via NH65 and city roads; frequent buses and autos available
- By Rail:
Vijayawada Railway Station – approx. 2 km from the temple
- By Air:
Vijayawada International Airport – approx. 20 km away
- On Foot: Devotees can climb the hill via steps or use the ghat road for vehicle access
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