North Georgia’s 1st Gopura Maha Kumbhabhishekham at Shiva Durga Temple amid Vedic chants

The air reverberated with the sounds of Vedic chants and devotees participating in the highly anticipated and eagerly awaited North Georgia’s first Gopura Maha Kumbhabhishekham at Sri Shiva Durga Temple this past weekend.

The event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries – Hon Carter Barrett – Georgia State Representative (R), Hon. Todd Jones – District 3 Commissioner, Sheriff Ron H. Freeman, Mr. Alred John – Forsyth County Commissioner, Mr. Kartik Bhat and Mr. Sebastian Barron – representing the Governor’s office and more than 18,000 devotees over the 3 day event.

Sri Shiva Durga Temple is also the first Hindu Temple in North Atlanta to have a Proclamation from Governor Hon. Brian P. Kemp. Devotees had the opportunity to participate in the Gau (Cow), Gaja (Elephant) and Ashwa (Horse) puja and take divine blessings.

It was the first time that the Gaja (Elephant) puja was conducted in North Georgia as a symbol of Lord Ganesha to receive his blessings in our community. The event over 3 days from August 18- August 20 was celebrated with devotional songs, performances and Vedic chants and prayers for the well-being of our community.

Devotees had the opportunity to take the divine blessings and celebrate together with prasadam prepared for the occasion by volunteers. Special thanks go out to the Sheriff’s office and all the devotees, volunteers for ensuring that the celebrations were conducted peacefully and helped spread the message of community togetherness in North Georgia.

This event is a testament to the love and devotion of all the volunteers and the community working towards spreading hope, gratitude and fellowship with everyone.

Governor Brian Kemp also proclaimed 15 Aug 2023 as India Day in Georgia to record the success of the Indian community and celebrate the contributions of India and India’s great people across the State of Georgia.