Kanaka Durga Temple sees 1.82 million devotees during festivities

The Kanaka Durga temple atop Indrakeeladri and the surrounding Vijayawada area experienced a massive influx of devotees during the Dasara Sharannavaratri festivities. According to Temple Executive Officer VK Seena Naik, a total of 18.29 lakh devotees had performed darshan by 4:00 PM on Thursday.

Of this total, approximately 14.84 lakh visitors attended during the Dasara celebrations between October 11 and midnight on October 20. A subsequent surge of Bhavani devotees, many dressed in red to mark the completion of their deeksha, arrived on October 21 and 22, driving the total footfall higher.

To support the crowds, the temple distributed nearly 40 lakh laddus, with additional supplies prepared. Annadanam services provided meals to over 8.37 lakh devotees. Other provisions included 4.34 lakh buttermilk servings and 6.45 lakh biscuit packets. Medical teams at on-site facilities provided outpatient services and emergency medicines to approximately 1.06 lakh people for various ailments. Temple staff, police, and government departments coordinated to manage the crowds and ensure essential services like drinking water and food remained available throughout the night.