Kanakamahalakshmi Temple

The family deity of the rulers of Vizag. They consecrated Her a century ago in the centre of a narrow street within the `Buruju' (fort) and the area came to be known as Burujupeta.

She is "Kanaka Mahalakshmi Ammavaru" and She is worshipped as the `Guardian of the city'. The temple is without a roof and has no walls on the four sides. nother unique feature of this mystic temple evolves around its rituals. Here the pujas are performed by devotees themselves in their own respective style unlike in most temples where it is performed by a priest.

Thursday is the most auspicious day for Her worship and the `Margasira' month, according to the Telugu `Panchangam', is the most auspicious month. It is during this month, lakhs of devotees not only form this city but also from neighboring districts turn out to worship her, and the temple area will wear a festive look all through the month.

The mystic temple and the equally mystifying deity preside in the heart of the locals and they worship Her for good health, prosperity and to get rid of all the hurdles in their life.

It is believed that the idol of the deity was taken out from a well nearby.

Till 1912, She was worshipped where they consecrated Her and the street was widened to facilitate the devotees and flow of traffic. Subsequently the Vizagapatam Municipality shifted the deity to a corner. Natives believe that it was after this incident there was an outbreak of severe plague in 1917 that took many lives. To overcome the epidemic She was reinstalled at Her earlier place, and it was only then that they could control the plague. And since then She is worshipped by all with fervour and devotion.