2025

Local News

Celebrating the navrathri of Dussehra

Shri Gauri Shankara Swami in the town of Gudivada reached the sixth day of the night mahots of Sridevi Shrannavana in their cedar. On this occasion, Shri Maha Chandi Homa Prius was scientifically organized in the courtyard of Devastana. Senior TDP leaders include Chakur Jaganmohanrau, Gudivada Assistant Commissioner Srinivas, and many couples participated in the Homa Priests. Ammais Shri Lalita Tripura gave the devotees in the Devi ornamentation of Sum all.

Festivals

Ugadi Celebrated with Joy and Tradition in Gudivada

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — The city of Gudivada welcomed the Telugu New Year, Ugadi (Vishwavasu Nama Samvatsaram), with traditional fervor on March 29-30, 2025. Residents gathered at temples and community halls, where Panchanga Patana (reading of the astrological almanac), special prayers, and rituals marked the beginning of the new year. Colorful decorations, rangoli, and mango leaf adornments brought a festive charm to homes and streets.  Morning rituals started early, with elders performing puja and seeking blessings. The tradition of preparing Ugadi Pachidi — a sweet-tangy mix symbolizing the flavors of life — was observed in many households. Community kitchens and local temples also offered maha prasadam so that people from all walks of life could partake in the celebrations. Key Points / Highlights: Ugadi (Vishwavasu Nama Samvatsaram) observed with Panchanga reading, pujas, and rituals in Gudivada. Ugadi Pachidi and maha prasadam made available via temples / community kitchens. Cultural events: dance, music, rangoli across neighborhoods. Decorations with mango leaves, rangoli; emphasis on eco-friendly materials. Community spirit, renewal, and hopes expressed for the new year.

Festivals

Bull Race in Gudivada during Sankranti

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — As part of the annual Sankranti celebrations, the much-anticipated bull race kicked off at the K Convention Centre on Lingavaram Road. Scheduled from January 11 to 15, the event brings together farmers and participants from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This year, the organizers expect around 170 pairs of bulls to compete in racing and “boulder pulling” categories. The event is being conducted by the NTR 2 YSR Charitable Trust, and arrangements are in place for food, accommodation, and safety protocols for both participants and spectators. Civil Supplies Minister Kodali Nani will inaugurate the race. A cash prize pool totaling ₹18 lakh is being offered to the winners.  Farmers are viewing this as more than a competition; it’s a celebration of the agricultural community and tradition. With Sankranti being a harvest festival, the bull race has become an important cultural event in Gudivada, adding excitement to the festivities. Organizers have taken care to ensure that the bulls are handled humanely and that proper veterinary support is available.  Key Points / Highlights: Bull race from Jan 11-15 at K Convention Centre, Lingavaram Road.  ~170 pairs of bulls expected; includes “boulder pulling” competitions. ₹18 lakh total prize money. Emphasis on safety, accommodation, and veterinary care. 

Tourism & Culture

Ganesh Temple, Satyanarayana Puram, Gudivada

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — The Ganesh Temple in Satyanarayana Puram stands out as a serene place of worship for residents of Gudivada. Nestled in a residential locality, this temple draws devotees daily, especially in the mornings and evenings, for the regular aarti and puja rituals. The temple’s approachable location makes it a popular spot for families and elder devotees. During Vinayaka Chavithi, the temple grounds come alive with festive fervor. Special decorations adorn the entrance, colored rangoli greet visitors, and flower vendors add fragrance to the air. The communal spirit is strong, with families coming together for prasadam, and local music or bhajans fill the premises. Though smaller than some larger temples, the devotion and cultural involvement here feel very personal and heartfelt. Architecturally, the temple is modest but well maintained. The shrine area is clean, and the idol is beautifully adorned. Devotees often comment on the calm ambiance, which provides a welcome respite from the noise of daily city life. Maintenance is handled by a local committee, and volunteers contribute towards cleanliness, flower offerings, and lighting, especially during festivals. Many temple activities are not limited to ritual worship—during festivals and important days, locals organize small cultural programs, including bhajans, devotional singing, and for children, storytelling sessions about Lord Ganesh. These add a sense of community beyond purely religious practices. Key Points / Highlights: Daily puja and aarti rituals draw regular devotees in morning/evening Vinayaka Chavithi celebrated with special decorations, rangoli & community participation Modest but clean architecture; locally maintained by committee & volunteers Cultural programs during festival times: bhajans, storytelling for children Accessible location in Satyanarayana Puram makes it a popular neighborhood temple

Tourism & Culture

Ashta Lakshmi Temple

The Ashta Lakshmi Temple on Eluru Road in Gudivada recently hosted its annual Lakshmi Pooja, drawing a significant number of devotees seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The temple was beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, creating a serene and auspicious atmosphere. Devotees offered prayers and performed rituals with devotion, expressing gratitude and seeking divine blessings. The event highlighted the community’s commitment to preserving religious traditions and fostering a spirit of unity. Key Highlights: Significant number of devotees attended the pooja Temple decorated with flowers and lights Devotees offered prayers and performed rituals Event highlighted commitment to preserving religious traditions

Tourism & Culture

Ramalayam Temple in NTR Colony, Gudivada: A Spiritual Haven for Devotees

The Ramalayam Temple, nestled in the heart of NTR Colony, Gudivada, stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural heritage. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple attracts a steady stream of devotees seeking blessings and peace. Its serene ambiance and traditional rituals provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The temple’s architecture reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the region, with intricate carvings and a sanctum that exudes tranquility. Regular poojas and special events, especially during festivals like Sri Rama Navami, draw large gatherings, fostering a sense of community and devotion. Community involvement is at the core of the temple’s activities. Local residents actively participate in temple upkeep, cultural programs, and charitable initiatives, ensuring that the temple remains a vibrant center of spiritual and social life. Key Highlights: Regular poojas and special events, especially during festivals like Sri Rama Navami Intricate temple architecture reflecting regional cultural heritage Active community involvement in temple activities and upkeep A serene and tranquil environment for spiritual reflection

Tourism & Culture

Bhimeshwara Temple in Gudivada Hosts Annual Maha Shivaratri

Bhimeshwara Temple in Satyanarayanapuram, Gudivada, recently hosted its annual Maha Shivaratri celebrations, attracting a large number of devotees. The temple was illuminated beautifully, and special rituals, including abhishekam and night-long prayers, were performed to honor Lord Shiva. Cultural performances and devotional music added to the spiritual ambiance of the event. The celebrations provided an opportunity for devotees to come together, strengthening their faith and community bonds. Key Highlights: Large number of devotees attended the celebrations Special rituals and night-long prayers performed Cultural performances and devotional music held Event strengthened faith and community bonds

Tourism & Culture

Venkateswaraswamy Temple in Gudivada Attracts Devotees with Annual Brahmotsavams

The Venkateswaraswamy Temple in Gudivada recently celebrated its annual Brahmotsavams, drawing thousands of devotees from across the region. The temple was adorned with vibrant decorations and illuminations, creating a festive atmosphere. Rituals and ceremonies were conducted with great devotion, including processions and cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of the region. The event not only strengthened the spiritual fabric of the community but also promoted cultural unity and tourism in Gudivada. Key Highlights: Thousands of devotees participated in the Brahmotsavams Temple adorned with vibrant decorations and illuminations Rituals, processions, and cultural performances held

Festivals

Gudivada Lights Up for Diwali Festivities

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — The city of Gudivada embraced the Diwali spirit as residents decorated homes and streets with colorful lights, diyas, and rangoli. Families gathered together to perform Lakshmi Puja, seeking prosperity and happiness. Markets were bustling as people purchased sweets, gifts, and festive decorations. Community halls and local temples organized cultural programs, including dance performances, music recitals, and competitions for children. The city administration coordinated with local police to ensure safety during the celebrations, especially in areas with large gatherings. Fireworks and sparklers added a colorful dimension to the celebrations, with safety awareness campaigns conducted in schools and neighborhoods. Residents were also reminded to use eco-friendly fireworks to reduce pollution and maintain public safety. Key Highlights: Streets and homes illuminated with traditional lamps and lights Lakshmi Puja performed in households and temples Cultural programs and competitions in community halls Eco-friendly fireworks and safety campaigns promoted