Thousands Witness Divine Boat Ride of Lord Malleswara Swamy and Goddess Kanaka Durga in Vijayawada
In a spectacular display of devotion, a massive crowd of devotees gathered at the Bhavani Ghat on the Krishna riverbank upstream of the Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada on Friday. They were there to witness the celestial boat ride of the divine couple, Lord Malleswara Swamy and Goddess Kanaka Durga Devi, as part of the ongoing Chaitra Masa Kalyana Brahmotsavams-2026 festival at the Durga temple.
Traditional Procession and Spiritual Atmosphere
The event commenced at approximately 5 pm with a grand procession from the Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple. The idols of the presiding deities were carried in a traditional manner towards the sacred Krishna River. The air was filled with the resonant sounds of Vedic chants and auspicious musical instruments, creating a deeply spiritual and reverent atmosphere that captivated all present.
Vibrant Cultural Performances and Devotional Enthusiasm
As the procession made its way, it passed through the Mahamandapam and arrived at the Durga Ghat. The journey was enlivened by vibrant cultural performances, including:
- Graceful Kuchipudi dances
- Energetic Kolatam performances
- Traditional drum beats
- Devotional bhajans sung with fervor
Devotees participated with immense enthusiasm and devotion, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.
Ceremonial Boat Ride and Symbolic Rituals
Upon reaching the riverbank, the deities were carefully placed on a specially decorated floral float. Following special puja rituals conducted by priests, the celestial ride began in the Krishna River. In adherence to tradition, the divine couple was taken on three ceremonial circumambulations in the river. This ritual is rich in symbolism, representing the three worlds and underscoring the spiritual significance of the event.
Dignitaries and Temple Officials in Attendance
The ceremony was graced by the presence of key temple officials and dignitaries, including:
- Temple chairman Borra Radhakrishna (Gandhi)
- Executive officer V K Seena Nayak
- Members of the temple trust board
- Head priest V Shiva Prasad Sharma
- Chief priest R Srinivasa Sharma
Their involvement highlighted the importance and sanctity of the Chaitra Masa Kalyana Brahmotsavams-2026 festival, which continues to draw devotees from far and wide to Vijayawada's Durga temple.
