Massive Rush for Surya Upasana at Durga Temple

VIJAYAWADA: Thousands of devotees thronged the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam (Durga temple) atop Indrakeeladri on Sunday as the weekly holiday drew large crowds, while the temple conducted the Surya Upasana Seva with religious fervour for the welfare of the world and the well-being of its devotees.

The special ritual was performed in accordance with Vedic traditions by the temple’s Vedic scholars, who recited Aruna Parayanam, Mahasoura Parayanam and the Surya Ashtottara Shatanamavali, besides offering special prayers to Lord Surya. Temple scholars said Surya worship is believed to bestow good health, vitality and mental peace, adding that Sundays are considered especially auspicious for offering prayers to the Sun God.

A special harathi was later offered to Goddess Kanaka Durga, and teertha prasadam was distributed to devotees. The temple administration advised devotees wishing to participate in Arjitha Sevas, including Surya Upasana, to book tickets in advance through the official Mana Mitra WhatsApp service or at temple counters.

Devotee inflow increased sharply from around 9 am, prompting the authorities to step up crowd management measures. Under the supervision of deputy executive officer Kishore Kumar, temple staff monitored queue lines and ensured smooth movement of pilgrims.

To facilitate faster darshan for general devotees, Antaralaya Darshan was temporarily suspended from 10.30 am, while all categories of VIP darshan were cancelled between 10.30 am and 3 pm. The move enabled thousands of devotees waiting in queues to have quicker access to the presiding deity.

Amid the prevailing summer heat, officials continued the innovative mobile drinking water service by supplying chilled water directly to devotees in queue lines through portable water containers. The initiative drew appreciation from pilgrims. Free prasadam and annadanam were distributed continuously throughout the day.

The rush gradually eased after 3 pm. Executive officer V.K. Seena Naik monitored the arrangements through wireless communication, issuing instructions to officials for effective queue regulation. Members of the temple trust board also reviewed the facilities and interacted with devotees, who expressed satisfaction over the efficient arrangements despite the heavy turnout.