Tirupati witnessed a vibrant display of devotion and tradition on Thursday as the processional deity of Lord Govindaraja was carried in two grand processions as part of the ongoing nine-day Brahmotsavams festival. The deity was first mounted on *Hanumantha Vahanam* in the morning, followed by *Gaja Vahanam* in the evening, marking the sixth day of the annual celebrations.
The morning procession began with artistes performing *Chekka Bhajana* and *Kolatam*, traditional folk art forms accompanied by rhythmic music that echoed through the streets of Tirupati. Devotees lined the route, offering *harathi* (aarti) to the deity while chanting “Govinda Nama” in unison, filling the air with spiritual fervor. The *Hanumantha Vahanam*, symbolizing unconditional servility and total surrender to the divine, was carried with reverence. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman represents unwavering faith and devotion, and this procession emphasized the importance of surrendering to the divine for protection and grace.
In the evening, the deity was placed on *Gaja Vahanam*, a majestic elephant-mounted carrier that signifies mightiness and divine supremacy. The procession on this carrier is believed, as per scriptures, to proclaim the Lord’s sovereignty over the universe. The streets were illuminated with lamps and filled with the sound of devotional chants as the deity moved through the city.
A key highlight of the day was the participation of *Prabandha Goshti*, a group of Sri Vaishnavite scholars who led the procession chanting *Nalayira Divyaprabandham*—a sacred collection of 4,000 Tamil verses composed by the 12 Alwars, revered saints in the Sri Vaishnava tradition. Following the deity’s procession was the *Veda Parayana Goshti*, a group reciting Vedic hymns, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
The Brahmotsavams, one of the most important festivals at the Tirupati Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes daily processions of the presiding deities on various *vahanams* (divine mounts). Each vehicle carries deep symbolic meaning, reflecting different aspects of devotion, divine power, and cosmic order. The festival attracts thousands of devotees from across India and abroad, who gather to seek blessings and witness the elaborate rituals.
Thursday’s events not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of the region but also reinforced the spiritual significance of surrender and faith in the divine. The blend of traditional music, folk performances, and sacred chants created an atmosphere of deep devotion and communal harmony.
As the Brahmotsavams continue, devotees remain immersed in prayer, rituals, and celebration, reaffirming their faith in Lord Govindaraja and the timeless traditions of Tirupati.
