Proclamation from Governor Hon. Brian P. Kemp for the Shiva Durga Temple's 3-day Gopura Maha Kumbhabhishekam

The inaugural Gopura Maha Kumbhabhishekha at Sri Shiva Durga Temple in North Georgia, which had been greatly anticipated, filled the air with the sounds of vedic chants and the chanting of devotees.

In addition to more than 18,000 devotees over the course of the three-day event, the event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including Hon. Carter Barrett, a Georgia State Representative (R), Hon. Todd Jones, a District 3 Commissioner, Sheriff Ron H. Freeman, Mr. Alred John, a Forsyth County Commissioner, Mr. Kartik Bhat, and Mr. Sebastian Barron, who represented the Governor's office.

Sri Shiva Durga Temple is also the first Hindu Temple in North Atlanta to have a **Proclamation for Shiva Durga Temple **from Governor Hon. Brian P. Kemp GOVERNOR.
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 (food) 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 occasion serves as a witness to the community's love and devotion in spreading fellowship, thanks, and optimism among all people. In order to recognize the achievements of the Indian community and honor contributions from India and its wonderful people throughout the State of Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp also declared August 15, 2023, as India Day in Georgia.