The much-anticipated nine-day annual Brahmotsavams have officially begun at the revered Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirumala, heralded by the ancient and sacred ‘Dwajarohanam’ ceremony on Wednesday.
During a meticulously chosen auspicious period, between 5:43 PM and 6:15 PM, the sacred yellow flag, adorned with the revered image of Lord Garuda – the celestial vehicle of Lord Maha Vishnu – was majestically hoisted atop the ‘Dwajastambham’, the temple’s towering flag post. This symbolic act marked the grand inauguration of this nine-day spiritual extravaganza.
The hallowed inner sanctums of the temple came alive with the resonant chants of Vedic scholars, whose rhythmic recitals of sacred hymns harmonized beautifully with the powerful beats of traditional temple drums. Dignitaries, including the senior and junior pontiffs of the hill shrine, reverently oversaw the ‘Dwajarohanam’ rituals, which were gracefully followed by an ‘asthanam’ (court assembly) held at the Tirumalaraya Mandapam within the temple complex.
Earlier in the day, devotees witnessed a breathtaking spectacle as Lord Malayappa Swamy, accompanied by his divine consorts, along with Anantha, Chakra, Garuda, and Viswaksena, embarked on a magnificent procession. They paraded joyously through the ‘mada streets’ that encircle the sacred hill temple, drawing immense devotion from all present.
According to ancient Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Garuda embarks on a celestial journey around the temple premises during this time. His divine mission is to extend a special invitation to all heavenly beings and celestial entities, including Gandharvas, Kinnaras, Kimpurushas, and revered Rishis, encouraging them to participate in this grand festival orchestrated by Lord Brahma himself.