TTD suspends all special darshan formats as it gears up for twin Brahmotsavams
With Tirumala set to host two Brahmotsavams this year owing to the occurrence of ‘adhika masam’, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has unveiled an extensive
With Tirumala set to host two Brahmotsavams this year owing to the occurrence of ‘adhika masam’, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has unveiled an extensive crowd management plan, suspending almost all special darshan categories during the annual festival and directing all the departments to complete preparations well ahead of schedule to handle the expected surge in pilgrim footfall. The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by TTD Additional Executive Officer Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary at the Sudharma auditorium in Padmavathi Guest House on Thursday. Tirupati Joint Executive Officer A. Sarath, Chief Vigilance and Security Officer Muralikrishna and senior officials from various departments participated.
Festival schedule The prelude ‘Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam’ would be performed on September 8, followed by ‘Ankurarpanam’ on September 14 and ‘Dhwajarohanam’ on September 15. ‘Garuda Seva’, the festival’s most significant event that draws lakhs of devotees, was scheduled for September 19, while ‘Rathotsavam’ and ‘Chakrasnanam’ would be held on September 22 and 23 respectively. Vahana Sevas would take place twice every day between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and again from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Anticipating exceptionally heavy pilgrim turnout, the TTD decided to cancel VIP Break Darshans throughout the Brahmotsavams, with the lone exception of protocol dignitaries. Darshan facilities for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, parents with infants, NRIs and donors would also remain suspended during the festival.
Crowd management The Additional EO directed the Vigilance and Police wings to draw up comprehensive security, traffic and parking plans to ensure smooth regulation of pilgrims and prevent congestion across Tirumala. Departments were instructed to strengthen queue management systems, ensure uninterrupted distribution of ‘annaprasadam’ in queue complexes, galleries and other key locations, and complete all engineering works required for the convenience of devotees before the festival begins. Officials were also asked to maintain the highest standards of sanitation by deploying additional personnel to keep toilets in galleries and public areas clean throughout the festivities. Attractive electrical illuminations, fruit and floral displays had also been planned to enhance the festive ambience, while youth volunteers would be mobilised as Srivari Sevaks to assist the pilgrims.
The BriefWire