The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam atop Indrakeeladri hill illuminated with colourful lights ahead of the Dasara festivities in Vijayawada on October 10, 2026.
| Photo Credit: G. N. Rao
The annual Dasara Sharan Navaratri festivities began at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam on Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada on Sunday (October 11, 2026), with Goddess Kanaka Durga appearing as Sri Bala Tripura Sundari Devi on the first day.
A total of 17,576 devotees had darshan of the presiding deity by 10 a.m., according to temple authorities. Elaborate arrangements were made by the temple administration and various government departments to facilitate the smooth movement of devotees. Free darshan was provided through all queue lines.
Kumkumarchana rituals commenced at the newly established puja mandapam, while the initial rituals for the Chandi Homam were performed at the yagashala in accordance with tradition.
District Collector, Police Commissioner, temple chairman and Executive Officer offered prayers to the presiding deity on the opening day.
The first-day alankaram of Bala Tripura Sundari Devi is associated with purity, knowledge and wisdom. Devotees worship the Goddess seeking knowledge, good sense and mental peace.
Published – October 11, 2026 01:38 pm IST
