Krishna Pushkaralu is one of the most significant and spiritually enriching festivals celebrated in the Guntur region, dedicated to the holy Krishna River, which flows gracefully through Andhra Pradesh. The festival, held once every twelve years, marks the transit of Jupiter (Guru) into the zodiac sign Virgo (Kanya Rasi), an event considered highly auspicious according to Hindu astrology.
During Krishna Pushkaralu, devotees from across India and abroad gather along the banks of the Krishna River, especially near Amaravathi, Vedadri, and other sacred ghats in Guntur District, to take a holy dip (Pushkara Snanam). This ritual bath is believed to cleanse one’s sins, purify the soul, and bless devotees with prosperity and peace.
The festival typically spans 12 days, each day representing a unique spiritual significance. The ghats are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and religious symbols. Devotees perform pujas, homams (fire rituals), pindapradanam (ancestral offerings), and charity works, invoking blessings for themselves and their families. Spiritual discourses, bhajans, and classical music performances create an atmosphere of devotion and unity.
Guntur transforms into a vibrant pilgrimage destination during this time. The Andhra Pradesh government organizes special arrangements, including temporary ghats, sanitation facilities, and cultural programs to ensure a comfortable experience for the millions of pilgrims visiting the area. The festival also becomes a symbol of community harmony, as people from all walks of life — regardless of caste, creed, or status — come together to honor the sacred Krishna River.
In the Guntur region, major Pushkar ghats like Durga Ghat (Amaravathi), Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple Ghat, and Ferris Ghat are particularly famous for their grand celebrations. Religious leaders and saints lead mass prayers and processions, while temple bells and chants of “Govinda Hari Govinda” echo across the riverbanks.
Beyond its religious value, Krishna Pushkaralu also reflects the cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh — blending spirituality, tradition, and community service. It is not just a festival but a living expression of faith and devotion that connects generations to the timeless flow of the Krishna River.