Temple

Kanaka Durga Temple: A Hilltop Pilgrimage of Devotion and History by priest -------------------

Nestled atop Indrakeeladri Hill, the Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada offers a breathtaking blend of spirituality, history, and stunning views of the Krishna River. Known for its connection to the Mahabharata, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the Navaratri celebrations. Experience the sacred rituals, panoramic vistas, and rich history of one of India's most revered destinations.

Description

Vijayawada, historically known as Vijayavata and mentioned in inscriptions as Rajendra Chola Pura, is a significant pilgrimage site situated along the Krishna River. The city is home to the Kanaka Durga Temple, the Malleswaraswamy Temple, and the Vijayeswaraswami Temple. Indrakila Hill, linked to the Mahabharata, is where Arjuna performed penance and received the Pasupatastra from Lord Shiva.

The Kanaka Durga Temple, perched atop Indrakeeladri Hill on the banks of the Krishna River, is a revered destination for devotees of Goddess Durga. People celebrate this temple for its spiritual significance and its stunning location, which offers panoramic views of the city and river. The temple complex includes several sacred teerthas (wells), each with distinct significance.

During the Navarathri festival, the temple celebrates by adorning the goddess in various forms. These include Balatripura Sundari, Gayathri, Annapoorna, Mahalakshmi, Saraswathi, Lalitha Tripura Sundari, Durga Devi, Mahishasura Mardini, and Raja Rajeswari Devi. The "Theppotsavam" (boat festival) on the Krishna River is a highlight of the Vijaya Dasami celebrations. Despite the availability of modern amenities like a ghat road, many devotees choose the traditional climb up the temple steps, often decorating them with turmeric powder and vermilion as part of their vows.

Kanaka Durga Temple on Indrakeeladri Hill's history begins with the story of a Yaksha named Keela, who performed severe penance to please Goddess Durga. Satisfied with his devotion, the goddess granted his wish to reside in his heart and instructed him to take the form of a mountain on the banks of the Krishna River. After vanquishing demons in Krithayuga, she promised to reside in his heart.

As foretold, Goddess Durga appeared on the Keela mountain in her eight-armed form as Mahishasura Mardini after slaying the demon Mahishasura. Her golden radiance earned the mountain the name "Kanakachala," while Indra and other deities visited and worshipped the mountain, earning it the name "Indrakeeladri."

Recognizing the spiritual significance of the site, Lord Brahma performed the Sata Aswamedha Yaga to invoke Lord Shiva's presence. Shiva manifested as a Jyotirlinga, worshipped initially by Brahma with jasmine (Mallika) flowers, earning the deity the name "Mallikesa." In Dwaparayuga, Arjuna performed penance on Indrakeeladri to obtain the Pasupatastra from Lord Shiva. Disguised as a hunter, Shiva tested Arjuna's devotion and eventually granted him the powerful weapon, further cementing the deity's name as "Mallikeswara."

In Kaliyuga, Adi Sankaracharya reinstalled the Malleswara Swamy Jyotirlinga and introduced Vedic worship practices, including the installation of the Srichakra and the cessation of animal sacrifices. The temple of Kanaka Durga revered as "Swayambu," became a significant pilgrimage site.

Indrakila is home to several ancient rock-cut temples. Over time, debris buried these temples, leaving them forgotten. However, quarrying activities for stone and road construction uncovered the temples, leading to their preservation as protected monuments.

An executive officer manages the temple, which is under the administrative control of the Government of Andhra Pradesh. The increasing number of pilgrims has significantly boosted the temple's annual income, enabling the construction of additional structures and beautification projects. In 1987–88, the temple conducted the "Sathachandiyagam" for the first time, aimed at benefiting humanity and protecting against evil.

Vijayawada remains a central and significant town in Andhra Pradesh, well-connected and home to these ancient and revered temples, attracting devotees from all over.

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