Rathotsavam marks penultimate day of Tirumala Brahmotsavams with chariot procession

 TIRUPATI: The Tirumala Brahmotsavams, the annual nine-day festival at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, reached a crescendo on Tuesday, the penultimate day, with the grand Rathotsavam (chariot procession).

Thousands of devotees gathered along the four mada streets to witness the Rathotsavam, which is steeped in religious significance. The processional deities of Lord Malayappa, accompanied by His divine consorts, were majestically seated on a high pedestal throne atop a grand wooden chariot. The massive chariot was bedecked with colourful flowers, flags, and festoons, crowned by a resplendent golden umbrella.

The procession began its journey down the mada streets, with the temple paraphernalia leading the way. Caparisoned elephants, horses, bulls, and a procession of cultural and bhajan troops added to the grandeur. Devotees and temple staff united to pull the mammoth chariot, with the aid of sturdy jute ropes and hydraulic brakes, underscoring the spirit of collective devotion.

The Rathotsavam is a vibrant spectacle that draws inspiration from the 'Kathopanishad,' equating it to the union of the soul with the body. It is a reminder to devotees to strive to achieve spiritual enlightenment and to unite with the divine.

In the evening, the Srivari Brahmotsavams reached its pinnacle as Lord Malayappa Swamy embarked on a celestial ride atop the Aswa Vahanam (horse chariot). This marked the culmination of the nine-day-long festivities, during which Lord Venkateswara Swamy graced devotees from sixteen different carriers, including the Golden and Wooden chariots.

The Aswa Vahanam procession holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, as it signifies the Kalki avatar of Lord Venkateswara. Kalki, revered as a protector of the righteous and a vanquisher of evil in the Kaliyuga, is one of the most cherished forms of the Lord. The Aswa, being the only living creature to witness the love story between the Lord and His consorts, serves as a reminder to all to steer clear of the Kali-dosha (age of vice) and to continually offer prayers and sing the keertanas of Lord Venkateswara to ward off the impact of wrongdoing.