Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and Governor S. Abdul Nazeer on Tuesday, 20 October extended Vijayadashami greetings to the people of the state, each praying for happiness, prosperity, and continued development of Andhra Pradesh.

Governor's Message

Governor S. Abdul Nazeer invoked the symbolism of the Navaratri festival in his message, calling it a celebration of 'the supremacy of Dharma and the triumph of good over evil, righteousness over adharma, and light over darkness.' He prayed to 'divine Mother Goddess Durga to shower her choicest blessings on all of us on this happy and festive occasion of Vijayadashami.'

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's Greetings

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu described Dussehra as 'a great source of inspiration for us all,' drawing a connection between the festival's spirit and the state government's development agenda. 'I pray for the blessings of the Divine Mother upon our resolve to ensure fair rewards for the hard work of our farmers, empowerment for women, and a bright future for our youth,' he said. He further expressed hope that 'with the blessings of Goddess Kanaka Durga, may Andhra Pradesh achieve success in every field and continue to progress on the path of development.'

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Highlights Navaratri Grandeur

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan noted that Dussehra festivities were being celebrated 'with great spiritual splendour across the length and breadth of India.' He specifically highlighted the Sharannavaratri celebrations at Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada, which were, according to him, made more significant by the presence of the President of India and chief ministers from several states. He also pointed to the national-level SARAS Mela held in Vijayawada as having 'further enhanced the state's reputation.' Kalyan reaffirmed that the coalition government remains 'committed to providing equal opportunities to all sections of society.'

Opposition Leader Jagan Mohan Reddy Also Extends Wishes

Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy joined in the seasonal greetings, describing Vijayadashami as 'a festival that proclaims the triumph of righteousness over unrighteousness, light over darkness, and good over evil.' He prayed that 'with the blessings of Goddess Kanaka Durga, may all hardships vanish, may joy flourish in everyone's life.' The message reflects a rare moment of cross-party convergence on a cultural occasion, even as the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led coalition and the YSRCP remain sharply opposed in the political arena.

Significance of the Occasion

Vijayadashami, observed on the tenth day of the Navaratri festival, holds particular religious and cultural importance in the two Telugu states, where Goddess Kanaka Durga at Indrakeeladri is a central figure of veneration. This year's celebrations drew national attention with the President of India's participation at the Vijayawada temple complex, underscoring the event's broader symbolic weight. The simultaneous SARAS Mela added an economic and cultural dimension to the festivities, showcasing rural artisans and self-help groups from across the country.