Divine Hunter Ritual Unfolds in Tirumala Forests
Lord Malayappa Swamy transformed into a royal hunter on Friday. The deity carried the sacred Panchayudhas during this special event. These divine weapons included the Sankhu, Chakra, Gada, Bana, and Khadgam.
Grand Procession Marks the Beginning
A magnificent procession escorted the deity to the Paruveta Mandapam. This structure sits near the Gogarbham dam in the Tirumala hills. Priests and temple officials joined the sacred journey.
Additional EO Ch Venkaiah Chowdary led the group. Board member G Bhanu Prakash Reddy also participated actively. They guided the ceremonial proceedings with devotion.
Mock Hunt Delights Devotees
The deity embarked on a symbolic hunting safari inside the Seshachalam forests. This ritual formed a key part of the Paruveta Utsavam celebrations. Temple priests performed several traditional rituals first.
Then the mock hunt commenced with great reverence. Scores of devotees gathered to witness this unique spectacle. They expressed pure delight at seeing one of Tirumala's rare annual festivals.
This festival occurs only once every year. Devotees consider it a highly auspicious occasion. The atmosphere remained charged with spiritual energy throughout.
Ceremonial Return Concludes the Event
After completing the festive activities, priests ceremoniously took Lord Malayappa Swamy back. The deity returned to the sacred Tirumala temple. The procession maintained its grandeur during the return journey.
Andal Goda Devi's Garland Procession
Meanwhile, a separate colorful procession took place simultaneously. Temple seers carried Andal Goda Devi's beautiful garlands with great care. Pedda Jeeyar and Chinna Jeeyar Swami led this devotional activity.
They adorned Lord Venkateswara with these sacred garlands inside the hill shrine. This ritual complemented the main Paruveta Utsavam celebrations perfectly. Both events showcased Tirumala's rich spiritual traditions.
