Malayappa Swamy Blesses Devotees From Chinna Sesha, Hamsa Vahanas
Adorned with traditional jewellery, the deity appeared as Lord Krishna of Dwaraka during the morning procession: Reports
TIRUPATI: The sacred hills of Tirumala are continuing to reverberate with devotional chants and religious fervour on the second day of Navaratri Brahmotsavams on Tuesday. Devotees gathered to witness Lord Malayappa Swamy’s processions on the Chinna Sesha Vahanam in the morning and the Hamsa Vahanam at night.
Adorned with traditional jewellery, the deity appeared as Lord Krishna of Dwaraka during the morning procession. Elephants and horses led the procession, while devotees performed Kolatam and artistes presented traditional folk dances. The procession attracted a large number of devotees, who gathered along the streets to witness the vahana sevas.
According to Vaishnava tradition, the Lord is regarded as the Sesha, while the world is considered the Sesha Bhutham. The Chinna Sesha Vahanam represents Vasuki, the king of serpents. Devotees believe that witnessing the Lord on this vahanam ensures family welfare and spiritual benefits associated with Kundalini yoga.
The procession featured performances by 489 artistes belonging to 17 cultural troupes from nine states, including Andhra Pradesh. The artistes showcased regional folk traditions, adding a cultural dimension to the celebrations.
The performances included Tappetagullu, a traditional dance form from north coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Dhimsa, a tribal dance from the Araku Valley region. Artists from Tamil Nadu presented Kurathi, while performers from Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts of Karnataka showcased their folk traditions through songs and dances.
The second day festivities concluded with the Hamsa Vahanam procession on Tuesday night. Priests took the deity around the temple streets on the Hamsa, or swan, Vahanam. This is associated with intellectual ability and wisdom. Through this vahanam, the Lord is believed to convey the importance of knowledge and education in transforming people's lives.
Those who participated in vahana sevas included Tirumala Pedda Jeeyar Swamy, Chinna Jeeyar Swamy, TTD executive officer Muddada Ravichandra, additional EO Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary, and CVSO K.V. Muralikrishna, among others.
