The world-renowned Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh will observe an extended closure on March 3, 2026, due to a celestial event. The temple doors will be shut for devotees for a period exceeding 10 hours in accordance with traditional rituals followed during a lunar eclipse.
Ritual Closure and Purification Procedures
As per the age-old customs and religious protocols observed at the hill shrine, the temple will remain closed for the entire duration of the lunar eclipse and for some time thereafter. The closure is mandated to allow for the performance of specific purificatory rituals, known as 'Sudhi' ceremonies, which are considered essential after the eclipse concludes.
The temple administration has confirmed that the shrine will only reopen for the general public and devotees once these cleansing rites have been completed in full. This practice is rooted in Vedic traditions followed by many Hindu temples across India, where eclipses are considered a time for spiritual reflection and ritual purification of the premises and deities.
Impact on Devotees and Pilgrims
The prolonged closure on March 3 is expected to significantly impact the pilgrimage schedule for thousands of devotees who visit the abode of Lord Venkateswara daily. Pilgrims planning a visit on this date are strongly advised to reschedule their trip to avoid disappointment.
Typically, on normal days, the temple sees a continuous flow of pilgrims. The over 10-hour halt in darshan is a rare occurrence, prompted solely by astronomical events like a lunar or solar eclipse. The temple trust usually makes announcements well in advance, as it has done now, to ensure pilgrims can plan their journeys effectively.
Adherence to Tradition and Future Schedule
This decision underscores the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) administration's strict adherence to religious scriptures and traditional practices. The specific timings for the closure and the subsequent reopening will be announced closer to the date, based on the precise timings of the eclipse provided by astronomical departments.
Devotees are encouraged to check the official TTD website and announcements for the exact schedule of closure and the restart of darshan and other seva activities. Such measures, while temporarily inconveniencing visitors, are deeply respected as part of the sacred commitment to preserving the sanctity of one of India's most visited spiritual centers.
