Tirumala is all set to host the highly anticipated annual Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateshwara from Friday, October 4th, to October 12th, 2024. This grand nine-day event is one of the most significant festivals at the hill temple, drawing millions of devotees from around the globe to seek the blessings of the divine.
According to ancient mythology, the Brahmotsavams were initiated by Lord Brahma as a mark of gratitude to Lord Venkateshwara for safeguarding the world during the tumultuous Kaliyuga. The name Brahma is also linked to the number nine, symbolizing the festival’s duration of nine days, which aligns with the Sun’s transit into Kanya Rasi during the sacred month of Aswayuja.
First mentioned by the revered poetess Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba in the sacred text Venkatachala Mahatyam, the Brahmotsavams include key rituals that are central to the festival. These rituals begin with the Dhwajarohanam, marking the official start of the festivities, and the grand Rathotsavam, where Lord Venkateshwara is taken on a majestic wooden chariot. The final day concludes with the Chakrasnanam, the ceremonial immersion of deities in the holy waters of Swamy Pushkarini.
The spiritual festivities commenced with the traditional seed-sowing ritual, Ankurarpanam, on Thursday evening, to ensure the smooth conduct of the Brahmotsavams. The sacred Dhwajarohanam ceremony will take place on Friday evening, where the Garudadhwaja, a flag bearing the image of Garuda (Lord Vishnu’s vehicle), will be hoisted atop the temple’s Dwajasthambham, symbolically inviting all divine entities to participate in the festival.
TTD Executive Officer J. Syamala Rao and additional EO Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary have confirmed that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) have made comprehensive arrangements for the influx of devotees. Additional security, including the deployment of 1,150 police personnel and daily routine checks by bomb disposal squads, will ensure the safety of all visitors.
On the first day of the festival, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will offer Pattu Vastrams (silk robes) to Lord Venkateshwara on behalf of the state government, followed by the release of the 2025 TTD calendars. The nine-day spiritual spectacle promises to be a divine experience for devotees, filled with rituals, devotion, and the vibrant energy of the Brahmotsavams.
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