Tirumala All Set for Grand Vaikuntha Ekadasi Celebrations
Tirumala: The sacred hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara has been transformed into a visual spectacle as the auspicious Vaikuntha Ekadasi celebrations commence today, Tuesday. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made extensive arrangements for the 10-day festival, which features the opening of the Vaikuntha Dwaram.
To mark the occasion, the TTD garden department has adorned the temple complex with breathtaking decorations, utilizing 50 tonnes of traditional flowers, 10 tonnes of fruits, and four lakh cut flowers. The entire hill town is currently illuminated with vibrant electrical displays, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Addressing the media, TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu stated that approximately 70,000 devotees are expected to visit the shrine daily. "We have allocated 20 hours specifically for common devotees to ensure a hassle-free experience. Srivari Sevaks are deploying continuous service to provide food and water to those waiting in queues," he said.
Strict guidelines are in place to manage the heavy influx of pilgrims. From December 30 to January 1, admission is restricted strictly to devotees holding valid tokens. Those without tickets will be allowed for the Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan from January 2 to January 8. Officials have mandated that pilgrims carry their printed tokens and Aadhaar cards for verification.
Special entry lines have been established at Krishna Teja, ATGH, and Silatoranam points. On the security front, 3,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain order. The festivities will feature the Swarna Rathotsavam (Golden Chariot procession) today, followed by the Chakrasnanam ritual tomorrow.
To mark the occasion, the TTD garden department has adorned the temple complex with breathtaking decorations, utilizing 50 tonnes of traditional flowers, 10 tonnes of fruits, and four lakh cut flowers. The entire hill town is currently illuminated with vibrant electrical displays, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Addressing the media, TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu stated that approximately 70,000 devotees are expected to visit the shrine daily. "We have allocated 20 hours specifically for common devotees to ensure a hassle-free experience. Srivari Sevaks are deploying continuous service to provide food and water to those waiting in queues," he said.
Strict guidelines are in place to manage the heavy influx of pilgrims. From December 30 to January 1, admission is restricted strictly to devotees holding valid tokens. Those without tickets will be allowed for the Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan from January 2 to January 8. Officials have mandated that pilgrims carry their printed tokens and Aadhaar cards for verification.
Special entry lines have been established at Krishna Teja, ATGH, and Silatoranam points. On the security front, 3,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain order. The festivities will feature the Swarna Rathotsavam (Golden Chariot procession) today, followed by the Chakrasnanam ritual tomorrow.