Thiruppavai recitation to replace Suprabhatam ritual during Dhanurmasam
Tirupati:During Dhanurmasam, the daily Suprabhatam ritual at the Srivari temple in Tirumala will be replaced by the recitation of the traditional Thiruppavai from Tuesday. The month-long ritual will conclude on January 14, following which the Suprabhatam seva will resume on January 15.
As part of Dhanurmasam traditions, the Suprabhatam seva is substituted with the recital of the Goda Thiruppavai Pasura Parayanam, a revered collection of 30 pasurams (stanzas) composed by Andal Goda Devi in praise of Lord Venkateswara. Andal, one of the 12 Alwars of the Sri Vaishnava tradition, authored the Thiruppavai, which forms an integral part of the Alwar Divya Prabandham and holds a special place in Tamil literature.
According to the Puranas, the solar calendar is prioritised during Dhanurmasam, a period dedicated entirely to spiritual activities. The Srivari temple observes unique rituals during this time. The regular Thomala seva, typically conducted with the participation of the Jeeyar Gosthi, is replaced by a special silent version known as Mooga Thomala. Additionally, one Astra is recited daily, and the Ekantha Seva is performed before the idol of Sri Krishna instead of Bhoga Srinivasa.
Dhanurmasam is considered highly sacred in Sri Vaishnava temples, and the Srivari temple at Tirumala observes this period with heightened religious fervour. Rituals, temple decorations, and offerings are imbued with special significance during this holy month.
Unlike the usual practice of offering Tulasi leaves during Sahasranamarchana, bel leaves are used in accordance with the Vaikhanasa Bhrigu Samhita traditions. Special prasadam such as dosa, jaggery dosa, sundal, sira, and pongal will be offered to the deity. Every day, special decorations featuring parrots from Sri Villiputhur will adorn the deity.
Meanwhile, the 25-day Adhyayanotsavams will be observed at the hill temple from December 30 to January 23. Known as the Divya Prabandha Pasura Parayanam, this festival is a recitation of the 4,000 pasurams composed by the 12 Alwars. The festival begins 11 days before Vaikunta Ekadasi during the holy month of Dhanurmasam.
The first 11 days are referred to as Pagalpattu and the following 10 days as Rapattu. The final four days are marked by significant events including the recitation of Kanninun Shiruthambu and Ramanuja Nutrandadi, Sri Varaha Swami Sattumora and conclusion of Adhyayanotsavams. The recitations will be conducted in the Ranganayakula Mandapam of the Srivari temple, led by the Sri Vaishnava Jeeyangar Swamijis.
