The sacred hill shrine of Tirumala is set to witness a grand spiritual spectacle as it prepares to celebrate the auspicious festival of Radhasapthami on Thursday, January 25. Revered as 'Mini Brahmotsavams' and also observed as Surya Jayanti, the festival will feature a series of magnificent processions of the presiding deity, Lord Malayappa Swamy, along with His consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi.
A Day of Divine Processions: The Vahanam Schedule
According to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Additional Executive Officer Venkaiah Chowdary, the day will be marked by a sequence of seven different Vahanam processions, bookended by a special ritual. The celestial journey will commence early at 5:30 AM with the Surya Prabha Vahanam. This will be followed in succession by the Chinna Sesha Vahanam, Garuda Vahanam, and Hanumantha Vahanam.
A pivotal event, the Chakrasnanam ritual, will be performed after the Hanumantha Vahanam procession. Following this sacred bath, the processions will resume with the Kalpavruksha Vahanam and Sarvabhoopala Vahanam. The day's elaborate festivities will culminate with the Chandraprabha Vahanam at 9:00 PM, creating a divine experience from dawn till night.
Massive Devotee Turnout and Enhanced Security
Anticipating a massive influx of pilgrims, the TTD authorities are making extensive arrangements. It is estimated that over two lakh (200,000) devotees will converge on the hill town for the Mini Brahmotsavams. To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the festival, the TTD vigilance and security wing is collaborating closely with the local police department. Adequate security measures, crowd management protocols, and logistical plans are being put in place to handle the large gathering.
Important Changes to Darshan Schedule
In light of the festival's elaborate arrangements and the expected crowd, the TTD has announced significant changes to the regular darshan schedule. The temple trust has decided to cancel the slotted Sarva Darshan for three days, from January 24 to January 26.
Furthermore, on the main festival day of January 25, all forms of privilege darshans will remain suspended. This cancellation includes popular categories such as VIP Break Darshan, slots for senior citizens, parents with infants, and NRIs. Devotees planning a visit during this period are advised to take note of these changes to avoid inconvenience.
The Radhasapthami celebrations offer a unique opportunity for devotees to witness the divine utsava murthis in a series of resplendent processions, embodying the rich spiritual heritage and ceremonial grandeur of Tirumala.
