Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) [India]: On the auspicious occasion of Vaikuntha Dwadasi, Tirumala witnessed the sacred ritual of Dwadasi Chakrasnanam, attended by thousands of devotees seeking divine blessings and moksha.
The Dwadasi Chakrasnanam involves a ceremonial bath for Sri Malayappa Swamy, along with Sridevi and Bhudevi, in the holy waters of Swami Pushkarini. Following this ritual, special poojas were performed, filling the atmosphere with spiritual fervor.
Significance of Swami Pushkarini
The ritual takes place at Swamy Pushkarini Theertha Mukkoti, a revered water body considered the chief among the 66 crore theerthams in the Seshachala Ranges, according to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Devotees also take a ritualistic dip in the holy waters, believed to cleanse sins and bestow spiritual liberation.
Offerings and Devotion
In a remarkable act of devotion, a group from Telangana made a grand offering to Lord Ayyappan. Akaram Ramesh, a businessman from Secunderabad, along with his wife, gifted 120 grams of gold arrows and bows and 400 grams of silver elephants to the deity in gratitude for their son’s admission to an MBBS program.
Procession of Swarna Ratham
Adding to the festivities, the Swarna Ratham (Golden Chariot) procession was held on Vaikunta Ekadasi with great religious fervor. The beautifully adorned chariot, carrying Sri Malayappa Swamy along with Sridevi and Bhudevi, was paraded through the four mada streets of Tirumala.
Thousands of devotees, including women employees of TTD, enthusiastically participated in pulling the chariot, chanting “Govinda…Govinda…” in unison. The procession was graced by dignitaries, including TTD Board Member Suchitra Ella and Additional EO Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary.
The Swarna Ratham is considered a symbol of divine blessings and is central to the celebrations of Vaikunta Ekadasi, observed during the Margazhi month (Dec-Jan).
This grand celebration of Dwadasi Chakrasnanam and the Swarna Ratham procession reflects the deep spiritual significance and enduring devotion of pilgrims visiting Tirumala.