**PaperDabba News Desk: October 03, 2024**
The much-awaited “Srivari Brahmotsavam” at Tirumala will begin on October 4, 2024, with a grand Dhwajarohanam (flag hoisting ceremony). As part of the tradition, the Chief Minister will offer the Pattuvastrams (sacred silk garments) to Lord Venkateswara. The Brahmotsavam, a nine-day festival celebrated with great devotion, commemorates the ancient lore where Lord Venkateswara instructed Brahma to conduct festivals for the world’s welfare. As a result, this festival is held annually in the auspicious month of Ashwayuja.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made extensive arrangements to ensure the comfort of devotees attending these festivities. Lord Malayappa Swamy, the Utsava Murthy (processional deity), will provide divine darshan to devotees as he rides various vahanams (vehicles) around the temple’s four mada streets from October 4 to October 12. Morning vahana sevas will occur from 8 AM to 10 AM, while the evening sevas will be from 7 PM to 9 PM, with a special Garuda Vahana seva scheduled for October 8, between 6:30 PM and 11 PM.
TTD has completed arrangements to accommodate the large influx of devotees expected for Brahmotsavam. Necessary amenities like drinking water, toilets, and well-maintained galleries are ready for the devotees who will witness the divine vahana sevas. The mada streets have been decorated with colorful rangolis, and barricades have been installed for smooth entry and exit.
Dhwajarohanam on October 4
The Brahmotsavam will commence with the Dhwajarohanam on October 4, between 5:45 PM and 6 PM, in the auspicious Meena Lagnam. As part of this, the priests will hoist the Garuda flag on the golden Dhwajasthambha in the presence of Sri Malayappa Swami, along with His consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi. This ritual invites all celestial beings and the Ashtadikpalakas to attend the Brahmotsavam. Following this, the first vahana seva, Pedda Sesha Vahanam, will take place from 9 PM to 11 PM.
Highlights of the Vahana Sevas
**Pedda Sesha Vahanam (October 4, 2024, 9 PM)**
Lord Malayappa, adorned with His consorts, will grace devotees atop the seven-hooded golden Pedda Sesha Vahanam. The Adisesha, a close companion of Lord Vishnu, symbolizes devotion. Witnessing this vahana helps devotees progress from the material world toward divinity.
**Chinna Sesha Vahanam (October 5, 2024, 8 AM)**
On the second day of Brahmotsavam, Lord Malayappa Swamy will ride the Chinna Sesha Vahanam, representing Vasuki, with His divine grace. Devotees believe that viewing this vahana helps them attain Kundalini Yoga Siddhi.
**Hamsa Vahanam (October 5, 2024, 7 PM)**
During the night of the second day, Lord Malayappa Swamy appears as Saraswati, riding the divine Hamsa (swan) Vahanam. The swan represents wisdom and the ability to discern between right and wrong.
**Simha Vahanam (October 6, 2024, 8 AM)**
On the morning of the third day, Lord Malayappa Swamy will ride the Simha (lion) Vahanam, symbolizing power and strength. The lion, as seen in the Narasimha avatar, reminds devotees of the strength of faith.
**Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam (October 6, 2024, 7 PM)**
In the evening, Lord Malayappa Swamy graces the procession on the Mutyapu Pandiri (pearl canopy) Vahanam. Pearls, linked with the moon in astrology, symbolize peace and prosperity.
Kalpavriksha Vahanam and Beyond
Each vahana in the Brahmotsavam holds deep spiritual significance, reminding devotees of the Lord’s various attributes and encouraging devotion. Special arrangements have been made to accommodate the anticipated large crowds, ensuring that every devotee has a smooth and divine experience.
The festivities culminate with the Rathotsavam (chariot procession) on October 11 and the Ashwa Vahanam later that evening.
With the divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara, this year’s Brahmotsavam promises to be a spiritually enriching experience for the millions of devotees attending the festival.
