Archive · 1 Feb 2026
102nd Annual Feast of Gunadala Mary Matha Begins
The 102nd Annual Feast of Gunadala Mary Matha started in Vijayawada.
It's a big event for Catholics, with lots of people coming to pray and celebrate.
The shrine is very important, being the second-largest Catholic pilgrimage site in South India.
The Bishop started the celebrations by raising a special flag.
He talked about how Mary is a spiritual mother who helps people get closer to God.
There will be nine days of prayers and a big celebration from February 9 to February 11.
People are asked to join with respect and devotion.
A special candlelight walk with the Holy Eucharist also happened to start the festivities.
The 102nd Annual Feast of Gunadala Mary Matha began in Vijayawada, marking the start of nine-day novena prayers.
The Gunadala Shrine is the second-largest Catholic pilgrimage centre in South India.
Bishop Telagatoti Joseph Raja Rao inaugurated the event by hoisting the Holy Flag of Mother Mary.
The Bishop emphasized the spiritual significance of Marian devotion and the blessings from honoring Mother Mary.
The main celebrations will take place from February 9 to February 11, with a candlelight procession marking the inauguration.
- Who
- Catholic devotees and clergy from across India
- What
- 102nd Annual Feast of Gunadala Mary Matha
- When
- February 9 to February 11
- Where
- Gunadala Shrine, Vijayawada
- Why
- To honor Mary Matha and seek spiritual blessings
- Event
- 102nd Annual Feast of Gunadala Mary Matha
- Location
- Gunadala Shrine, Vijayawada
- Duration
- February 9 to February 11
- Significance
- Second-largest Catholic pilgrimage centre in South India
- Inaugurated by
- Bishop Telagatoti Joseph Raja Rao
- Key Activities
- Novena prayers, candlelight procession, grand festivities
