Over eight lakh glass bangles adorn Goddess Kanaka Durga for ‘Gajula Alankaram’ in Vijayawada

On a bright Saturday morning, devotees gathered at the Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada to witness the Gajula Alankaram, a traditional adornment of the goddess with glass bangles. This year the temple displayed more than eight lakh bangles, a figure that is twice the amount used in the previous celebration. The shimmering ornaments were strung across the deity’s arms, neck and the surrounding pillars, creating a dazzling visual effect that attracted photographers and pilgrims alike. Temple officials said the increase was intended to mark a special anniversary and to involve a larger number of local sponsors.

The preparation began weeks in advance, with local craftsmen assembling the glass pieces in workshops scattered across the city. Each bangle, made from thin tempered glass, was polished to a high shine before being sorted by size and color. Volunteers from nearby neighborhoods helped transport the bangles to the temple courtyard, where they were carefully draped by senior priests following age‑old rituals. The practice of decorating deities with bangles is rooted in regional folklore, symbolizing prosperity, protection and the joyous spirit of the community.

The elaborate display has boosted visitor numbers, with estimates suggesting a 30 percent rise in footfall compared with last year’s ceremony. Local businesses, from flower vendors to street food stalls, reported higher sales, underscoring the economic ripple effect of religious festivals in Andhra Pradesh. For readers across India, the event illustrates how cultural traditions can drive both social cohesion and regional tourism, reinforcing the importance of preserving such practices in a rapidly modernising society.