Vijayawada Kanakadurga Temple | Sri Durga Malleswara Temple

Vijayawada Kanakadurga Temple or the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Temple is situated on the banks of river Krishna in Indrakeeladri mountains. Kanakadurga at the Durga Malleswara Swamy temple is swayambu, meaning self-manifested. It is one of the largest temples in India and the 2nd largest temple in Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that many years ago, a Yaksha named ‘KEELA’ was performing rigorous penance to please goddess Durga. Goddess Durga was pleased by his penance and appeared before him. She asked him to ask a boon. Keela was so happy by the words of goddess Durga and begged her, “O holy Mother! you should always be in my heart. This is the one and only my desire”. Goddess Durga granted the boon saying, “My Son! You remain here at this holiest planes of river Krishna in the form of mountain. In Krithayuga, after the assassination of demons, I will remain in your heart”. Goddess Durga after killing Mahishasura came back to the mountain and shined as promised to Keela. On this mountain, goddess Durga glowed with the lighting of crores of suns, golden in color. Because of the brilliant glow, Indra and all the other gods praised her chanting Kanakadurga and they have been worshipping her daily ever since.