TIRUMALA: Thousands of devotees thronged Tirumala on penultimate day of the annual Srivari Salakatla Brahmotsavams to witness the Swarna Ratham (Golden Chariot), Maha Rathotsavam (Wooden Chariot) and Aswa Vahana Seva processions along the Four Mada Streets.
Lord Malayappa Swamy, flanked by Goddess Sridevi and Goddess Bhudevi, was adorned with diamond‑studded ornaments, emerald strings and giant floral garlands. Priests performed Punyavachanam and Navagraha Dhyanam before seating the deities on decorated thrones beneath golden umbrellas. Women devotees, including Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) employees, joined in pulling the golden chariot amid chants of “Govinda! Govinda!”
Despite intermittent rain, cultural troupes from more than 10 states presented classical dances, devotional music and bhajans ahead of the massive wooden chariot, whose movement was coordinated by TTD’s security, vigilance and engineering wings. After hours‑long processions, the deities were escorted back for Snapana Tirumanjanam, a ritual bath with herbal water.
By evening, focus shifted to the Aswa Vahanam, symbolising the Kalki Avatar of Lord Vishnu. Priests and Vaishnavite scholars led the horse‑carrier strictly under Vaikhanasa Agama principles, with devotees chanting “Govinda Nama.”
TTD Executive Officer M Ravi Chandra confirmed the completion of major vehicle processions. The festival concludes on Wednesday with the Chakrasnanam ritual at Swami Pushkarini and Dwajavarohanam flag‑lowering ceremony