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.

The post A Spectacular Display of Devotion: The Grand Garuda Vahana Seva at Tirumala Brahmotsavam 2024 appeared first on Vizag One.

Brahmotsavam Commencement and Key Highlights

The Brahmotsavam kicked off on Thursday evening with the Dwajarohanam, or flag hoisting, performed by priests during the auspicious Meena Lagna between 5:45 pm and 6:00 pm. This marked the official start of the celebrations, which will continue for nine days, filled with spiritual fervor. On the same evening, from 7:00 to 8:00 pm, Ankurarpana, or the seeding ceremony, was held. Lord Vishwaksena, commander of Lord Venkateswara’s army, paraded through the temple streets on a palanquin, overseeing the festival arrangements.

A Sacred Experience for Devotees

The TTD has made extensive arrangements to ensure that the devotees have a seamless experience during the Brahmotsavam. Every day, special vehicular processions will be conducted, beginning with the Peddashesha Vahana Seva on Thursday night, where the Garuda flag was waved, symbolically inviting the deities to the festival. The festival will conclude with the Chakra Sangam on October 12th.

TTD expects a surge in devotees, particularly due to the Dussehra holidays and the sacred Peratasi month. In light of the anticipated crowds, TTD has canceled all special darshans, including VIP break darshans, to accommodate the lakhs of devotees attending the festival.

Special Security and Facilities

The local police, in collaboration with forces from neighboring districts, have heightened security to ensure a peaceful and smooth celebration. Over 3,900 policemen, 1,250 vigilantes, and 400 RTC buses will be deployed to manage the influx of devotees. The security system has also installed CCTV cameras across the temple and surrounding areas to monitor and prevent any potential incidents.

TTD has gone a step further by making 7 lakh laddus available as buffer stock for devotees and setting up five holding points for parking in Tirupati for pilgrims attending the Garuda Seva, a key highlight of the Brahmotsavam.

Garuda Seva – The Grand Procession

The Garuda Seva, scheduled for October 9th, is one of the most awaited events of the Brahmotsavam. TTD has laid special emphasis on ensuring that the devotees have a safe and serene experience. The hill roads will be open for 24 hours on the day of the Garuda Seva, and devotees will be allowed to access the two walkways leading to the Tirumala hills.

A Special Visit by the Chief Minister

On behalf of the state government, Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu will present silk robes to Lord Venkateswara as a mark of respect and tradition. The CM will also unveil the TTD’s 2025 calendar and diary at the Ranganayakula Mandapam and inaugurate the Vakulamata kitchen, a new facility built at the cost of ₹18.45 crore.

Conclusion

The Brahmotsavam is not only a spiritual festival but a grand cultural spectacle that brings together lakhs of devotees in a shared expression of devotion. With meticulous arrangements made by TTD, this year’s Brahmotsavam promises to be a memorable and spiritually uplifting event for all who participate.

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