The annual Brahmotsavam of Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Swamy is underway, and devotees are witnessing grandeur on a magnificent scale. On Tuesday night, marking the fifth day of the Brahmotsavam, Sri Malayappa Swami, adorned with exquisite ornaments and wearing a garland of Lakshmikas, blessed the assembled devotees from atop the Garuda Vahanam, his cherished vehicle. As the divine procession roamed the streets of Tirumada, the air was filled with devotion and excitement.
According to ancient Puranas, the sight of Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu, has the power to cleanse one’s sins. As Garuda Vahana Seva commenced, Gajarajas led the way, followed by groups of devotees chanting bhajans and performing kolatam dances. The atmosphere was charged with the sounds of traditional mangala instruments as the procession continued.
The significance of Garuda Vahanam lies in its symbolism. It is believed that Lord Vishnu, through this procession, demonstrates the concept of Dasanudasa Prapati, or devotion as a servant. By gazing upon Lord Garuda, devotees hope to attain spiritual liberation and rid themselves of worldly ignorance.
In addition to the spiritual essence, Garuda Vahana Seva was a celebration of India’s cultural diversity. Artists from states across the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Pondicherry, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and many others, performed their traditional art forms. In total, 28 art groups featuring 713 artists brought their unique traditions to Tirumada’s streets, offering an enchanting glimpse of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
The performances ranged from the Chari Rupakam by Roop Singh’s troupe from Rajasthan to the Thimsa dance by Ashok’s troupe from Telangana, each adding a unique flavor to the festivities. Gujarat’s Tippani Garbha folk dance, Madhya Pradesh’s Bundelkhand dance, Orissa’s Ravinarayan Bhoomi dance, and many more kept the audience enthralled. The event also featured the energetic Bhangra from Punjab, Lavani Gondal from Maharashtra, and Mayura dance from Kerala.
Tirupati’s SV Sangeet Nritya College students showcased Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, while Karnataka’s Indu Bharata Natyam and Tirupati’s Srinivasa Kalyana Rupakam offered classical and traditional dance performances.
Distinguished dignitaries including Tirumala Sreesree Peddajiyarswamy, Sreesree Chinnajeyarswamy, EO J Shyamala Rao, Additional EO CH Venkaiah Chaudhary, JEOs Gauthami, Veerabraham, and CVSO Sridhar were in attendance, joining thousands of devotees in reverence and celebration. The Garuda Vahana Seva left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it, enveloped in devotion, music, and dance.
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