Tirumala Performs Pournami Garuda Seva for Lord Malayappa Swamy

Tirupati: Coinciding with Guru Pournami, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) organised the Pournami Garuda Seva for Lord Venkateswara Swamy on Wednesday. Thousands of devotees gathered along the four mada streets to witness the procession, considered one of the most significant rituals.

The utsava idol of Lord Malayappa Swamy, accompanied by His consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, had been beautifully decorated with flowers, silk garments, and traditional jewellery before being taken out in a grand procession on Garuda Vahana, the divine eagle mount of Lord Vishnu from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Devotees offered prayers to Lord Malayappa Swamy and His Consorts, and received their blessings.

Garuda Vahana holds special importance in Vaishnavite tradition. Devotees believe that having darshan of Lord Malayappa Swamy seated on His favourite mount brings prosperity, fulfils wishes, and relieves them of hardships and ailments. The monthly Garuda Seva is observed on every Pournami and attracts devotees from different parts of the country.

In keeping with the significance of the event, the processional deity had been adorned with several rare and sacred ornaments, normally used only for the main deity inside the Srivari Temple. These included the Makara Kanti, Lakshmi Kasula Haram, and the Venkateswara Sahasra Nama Mala. The made the Garuda Seva a rare occasion for devotees to witness these revered ornaments during the procession.