Vijayawada: As Dasara celebrations on Indrakiladri enter their final stretch, Vijayawada is witnessing a sea of devotees, with a sharp surge in pilgrim footfall at Kanaka Durga temple. The city, already vibrant with Navaratri festivities, has taken on an even more devotional atmosphere since the arrival of Bhavani devotees on Durga Ashtami.Thousands of devotees from Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, East and West Godavari districts are undertaking the journey on foot, carrying traditional offerings and chanting hymns. Their arrival has infused Vijayawada with a unique spiritual fervour, continuing a centuries-old tradition with undiminished enthusiasm.Locals along highways and village routes are welcoming the yatris with food and water. Voluntary groups have set up camps along NH-16, offering meals and refreshments. “It is our seva to the Goddess and a privilege to serve those walking with such faith,” said K Srinivas, a seva committee member from Gannavaram.Temple authorities have prioritised Bhavani devotees this year, arranging special queues, shelters, and facilities to manage the surge. “Unlike last year, we’ve put in place a more organised system,” said executive officer Sena Nayak.The rush is expected to continue until Saturday evening, with thousands more arriving. The streets leading to Indrakiladri now echo with devotional chants and drumbeats, as the final days of Navaratri promise record crowds.
