TTD prepares for Navaratri Brahmotsavams, cancels privileged darshans

Tirupati: The TTD is all set to host the annual Navaratri Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateswara from October 15 to 23, promising a hassle-free darshan experience to the devotees.

To accommodate the anticipated surge in pilgrims, the TTD has cancelled all privileged darshans at the hill temple of Tirumala during the nine-day festival.

Addressing the media alongside district collector K. Venkataramana Reddy and SP Parameswara Reddy in Tirumala on Tuesday, TTD executive officer A.V. Dharma Reddy said, “TTD is committed to providing a smooth Srivari Darshan for all pilgrims. “Comprehensive preparations have been made to guarantee a comfortable darshan experience to all.”

The Navaratri Brahmotsavams will feature several significant events like Garuda Vahana Seva on October 19, Pushpaka Vimanam on October 20, Golden Chariot on October 22 and Chakra Snana Mahotsavam on October 23. Vahana Sevas will be held every day from 8 am to 10 am and night Vahana Sevas from 7 pm to 9 pm.

Notably, Dhwajarohanam and Dhwajavarohanam events will not be performed during the second Brahmotsavam.

Dharma Reddy said the cancellation of privileged darshans extends to VIP breaks, infant darshans, darshans for NRIs, defence personnel, senior citizens and the physically handicapped. Arjita Sevas such as Astadala Padmaradhana, Unjal Seva, Tiruppavada, Kalyanotsavam and Sahasra Deepalankara Sevas will also be cancelled.

In the interest of devotees' safety, two-wheelers will not be allowed on the twin ghat roads ahead of the Garuda Seva Vahana on October 19.

"As devotees throng Tirumala on the previous night itself in the galleries of four mada streets to witness Garuda Vahana Seva, we are contemplating advancing the Vahana Seva on October 19 by consulting with the chief priests of Tirumala temple," he said.

District collector Venkataramana and SP Parameswara Reddy said their departments were fully prepared to provide the necessary manpower and support to the TTD for the smooth conduct of the Brahmotsavams. TTD JEOs Sada Bhargavi and V. Veerabrahmam, CVSO Narasimha Kishore, CE Nageswara Rao and other officials from TTD, district administration, police and RTC were present.