The grand Tirumala Brahmotsavam, starting from October 3, 2024, is one of the most significant and spiritually powerful events in the Hindu calendar. This nine-day festival, celebrated in honor of Lord Venkateshwara, is steeped in history, mythology, and cultural traditions. Though numerous other utsavas (festivals) take place throughout the year at the holy hill of Tirumala, the Brahmotsavam is considered the most important, attracting millions of devotees from across the globe.
History and Mythology of Brahmotsavam
The origins of the Tirumala Brahmotsavam are rooted in ancient mythology. According to legend, during the Kali Yuga, Sri Venkateshwara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, descended to Earth to protect humanity, fulfilling the prophecy that "Kalou Venkata Nayakah" (In Kali Yuga, Venkateshwara is the lord). This divine appearance is said to have occurred under the star of Shravana in the month of Kanya Masam.
The mythological narrative behind Brahmotsavam traces its inception to Lord Brahma, the creator god, who initiated this festival to honor Sri Venkateshwara. Brahma performed a nine-day utsavam to celebrate the Lord's manifestation as a protector of mankind. Since Brahma himself conducted these rituals, they became known as Brahmotsavas. The festival continues to symbolize the spiritual significance of this event and its association with Lord Vishnu's divine grace.
Evolution of Brahmotsavam Over the Centuries
The Tirumala Brahmotsavam has evolved over centuries, with many historical figures contributing to its grandeur. One prominent example is Pallava queen Samavai, who in 614 AD donated the idol of Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy to Tirumala. She also initiated a procession of the idol during the Brahmotsavam, a tradition that still persists. Other kings and queens organized similar Brahmotsavas during their reigns, with records showing the celebration of these utsavas up until the year 1583.
Famous rulers such as Vijaya Ganda Gopala Deva in 1254 AD and Veera Prathapa Rayalu in 1429 AD held Brahmotsavas in different months like Chaitra and Ashvayuja, respectively. However, while these royal festivals eventually ceased, the Brahmotsavas started by Lord Brahma have continued uninterrupted through the ages.
The Divine Sequence of Rituals
Each year, the Brahmotsavam begins with sacred rituals like Ankuraarpana (the planting of holy seeds) and Mrutsangrahanam (collection of earth), overseen by Lord Vishwaksena, the commander of Lord Venkateshwara’s army. The festival formally starts with Dwajarohanam on the first day, where the Garuda flag is hoisted, inviting all celestial beings to witness the festivities.
Highlights of Brahmotsavam 2024 include:
Day 1 (Oct 3, 2024): Ankurarpanam, followed by Dwajarohanam and Pedda Shesha Vahana Seva. This day also marks the offering of silk garments to the Lord by the Andhra Pradesh government.
Day 2 (Oct 4, 2024): Chinna Sesha Vahanam in the morning and Hamsa Vahanam in the evening, symbolizing peace and purity.
Day 3 (Oct 5, 2024): Simha Vahanam (the Lion vehicle) in the morning, representing power, and Muthyapu Pandiri (Pearl canopy) in the evening.
Day 4 (Oct 6, 2024): Kalpa Vriksha Vahanam (the divine wish-fulfilling tree) and Sarva Bhupala Vahanam symbolizing the universal rulers offering obeisance to the Lord.
Day 5 (Oct 7, 2024): Mohini Avataram in the morning, depicting Lord Vishnu’s enchanting female form, and the much-awaited Garuda Vahanam in the evening, where Lord Venkateshwara is paraded on Garuda, the celestial eagle. This is the highlight of the festival, attracting millions of devotees.
Day 6 (Oct 8, 2024): Hanumantha Vahanam and Gaja Vahanam in the morning and evening, symbolizing devotion and majesty, respectively.
Day 7 (Oct 9, 2024): Suryaprabha and Chandraprabha Vahanam, symbolizing the sun and moon, take place on this day.
Day 8 (Oct 10, 2024): The Rathotsavam (chariot festival) and Ashwa Vahanam (horse vehicle) processions occur, celebrating the Lord’s sovereignty over the universe.
Day 9 (Oct 11, 2024): The festival concludes with Teertha Vari (holy bath) and Chakra Snanam (ritual cleansing of the Sudarshan Chakra), followed by Dwaja Avarohanam, marking the end of the festivities.
Tirumala Brahmotsavam 2024: Dates and Vahanam Schedules
Oct 3, 2024 – Senadhipathi Utsavam, Ankurarpanam
Oct 4, 2024 Tirucchi Utsavam, Dwajarohanam Pedda Sesha Vahanam
Oct 5, 2024 Chinna Sesha Vahanam Hamsa Vahanam
Oct 6, 2024 Simha Vahanam Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam
Oct 7, 2024 Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam Sarva Bhupala Vahanam
Oct 8, 2024 Mohini Avataram Garuda Vahanam
Oct 9, 2024 Hanumantha Vahanam, Vasanthotsavam Gaja Vahanam
Oct 10, 2024 Surya Prabha Vahanam Chandra Prabha Vahanam
Oct 11, 2024 Rathotsavam Aswa Vahanam
Oct 12, 2024 Pallaki Utsavam, Chakra Snanam Tirucchi Utsavam, Dwaja Avarohanam
The Tirumala Brahmotsavam is not just a festival; it is a celebration of divine love, power, and devotion that has transcended centuries. Each day of this grand event is marked by majestic processions, spiritual fervor, and rituals that connect devotees to Lord Venkateshwara’s blessings. As millions of pilgrims gather to witness the spectacle, the festival serves as a reminder of the enduring spiritual significance of Tirumala and its role in protecting humanity in the Kali Yuga.