Vijayawada Durga Temple

As per the legend, Goddess self-manifested here on Keeladri during Krutya Yuga, where Keela is a Yaksha who did penance for Goddess Durga. Impressed Durga Devi resided on Keela who transformed into a hill near River Krishna. Goddess manifested on Keeladri after killing the demon Mahisasura. It is said that Indra (God of Heaven) did penance here for Goddess Durga. Hence the name, Indra Keeladri.

 Lord Brahma performed Sataswamedha Yajna on Indrakeeladri for which Lord Siva self-manifested here in Jyotirlinga form. Lord Siva here called by Mallikarjuna Swamy. From the Puranas, it is known that Lord Brahma installed Siva Linga and worshipped with Jasmine flowers. Hence the name Mallikarjuna Swamy.

Arjuna, Pandava’s brother did penance here for Lord Siva seeking Pasupatha Astra. Jagadguru Adi Sankaracharya installed Sri Chakra in this temple.