The sacred town of Tirumala was alive with devotion on Saturday as tens of thousands of pilgrims gathered to witness a mesmerizing spectacle: Lord Malayappa’s divine procession atop the magnificent Kalpavriksha Vahanam. This event marked the fourth day of the annual Srivari Brahmotsavams, a revered festival that draws immense crowds.
The day was filled with spiritual significance and anticipation. Alongside the grand procession, devotees also observed the ceremonial arrival of sacred garlands from Srivilliputtur, located approximately 650 kilometers away. These precious offerings, processed through the mada streets, were lovingly received by temple authorities. Adding to the day’s solemnity was the presentation of nine exquisitely crafted umbrellas by R.R. Gopal, trustee of the Chennai-based Hindu Dharmartha Samithi. This marked the 21st consecutive year of this heartfelt donation, with the umbrellas making a six-day journey on foot from Chennai, all in preparation for the highly anticipated Garuda Seva scheduled for September 28.
The Kalpavriksha Vahanam procession itself was a sight to behold. Lord Malayappa, adorned in the resplendent Rajamannar Alankaram, moved majestically through the temple’s mada streets. The air was filled with devotion, as caparisoned elephants led the way, accompanied by fervent bhajans, captivating cultural dances, and the rhythmic chanting of Veda Gosti by esteemed temple pontiffs. Traditional temple music further amplified the grandeur of the occasion, creating an immersive spiritual experience for all present.
In the afternoon, a special Snapana Thirumanjanam ritual was performed for the processional (utsava) deities at the Ranganayakula Mandapam, adding another layer of sanctity to the day’s events.
The auspicious second Saturday of the Tamil month of Purattassi significantly swelled the crowds, with thousands of devotees undertaking arduous treks to the temple town, particularly from neighboring Tamil Nadu. Many chose to stay in the temple galleries, eagerly awaiting the upcoming Garuda Seva, a testament to their unwavering faith. Managing such a massive influx of pilgrims proved to be a considerable challenge for both the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and local police, who worked tirelessly to ensure safety and maintain order.
Mythology teaches that the Kalpavriksha, the wish-fulfilling divine tree, emerged from the cosmic ocean’s churning. It is deeply revered as a grantor of both material prosperity and spiritual enlightenment to all who witness its sacred procession.
The day of vibrant festivities concluded with yet another majestic event: the nighttime procession of the Sarvabhoopala Vahanam, bringing a fitting and awe-inspiring close to the divine celebrations.