TTD Cancels VIP Darshan for Ugadi Festivities at Tirumala Temple
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has announced the cancellation of the highly sought-after VIP break darshan at the Tirumala temple on March 17 and 19. This decision comes in light of the upcoming Ugadi celebrations, the Telugu New Year, which falls on March 19. The TTD authorities have made it clear that no VIP recommendation letters will be accepted from devotees on March 16 and 18, urging pilgrims to plan their visits accordingly.
Pre-Ugadi Rituals and Schedule Changes
According to TTD sources, the Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam, a sacred purification ceremony, is scheduled to be held inside the Tirumala temple on March 17 as a prelude to Ugadi. This ritual is part of the preparations for the New Year festivities, leading to the temporary suspension of VIP darshan services. The TTD has appealed to devotees to take note of this adjustment and coordinate their pilgrimage plans to avoid any inconvenience.
Special Asthanams and Rituals for Ugadi
In addition to the cancellation, a series of three Asthanams will be conducted at Tirumala this month, starting with the Ugadi Asthanam on March 19. This event marks the onset of Sri Parabhava Nama Samvatsaram, the Telugu New Year, and will feature special rituals inside the temple. Priests and Vedic scholars will perform the traditional reading of the Panchangam (almanac) before the main deity and the processional deities, adhering to long-standing customs.
Upcoming Asthanams in March
Following the Ugadi celebrations, the Tirumala temple will host two more significant Asthanams later in the month. The Srirama Navami Asthanam is set for March 27, and the Pattabhisheka Asthanam will take place on March 28. These events are part of the temple's rich ceremonial calendar, attracting devotees from across the region for spiritual observances.
The TTD's decision underscores its commitment to maintaining the sanctity and smooth conduct of religious festivities, even as it impacts popular services like the VIP darshan. Devotees are encouraged to stay informed about such schedule changes to ensure a harmonious pilgrimage experience.
