Lord Malayappa rides on Kalpavriksha Vahanam

TIRUMALA: Standing majestically under the shade of Kalpavriksha, Lord Malayappa Swamy in his Rajagopal avatar accompanied by His consorts - Sridevi and Bhudevi blessed the multitude of the devout in Tirumala on Tuesday morning, the fourth day of the ongoing annual Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala. From the break of the dawn, people started gathering at the galleries around the four Mada Streets of Srivari temple. As the Lord, set out of the temple, entire area echoed with Govinda Nama. People from all walks of life vied with one another to catch a glimpse of the celestial splendour of Lord Venkateswara.

It is believed that worshipping the Lord standing under Kalpavriksha will fulfil one’s wishes as Kalpavriksha is a boon bestowing tree and the one standing under its shade is Brahmanda Nayaka (Lord of the Universe). Later in the night, bedecked in divine ornaments, Lord Malayappa Swamy accompanied by His consorts went around the four Mada Streets in Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam. Members of cultural troupes led from the front displaying their talent in various art forms. The chants of sacred hymns by Vaikhanasa pundits gave a divine charm to the entire proceedings. 

TTD has made elaborate arrangements for the most important day of the entire 10-day event - Garuda Seva. With turnout of devotees expected to be in lakhs on the auspicious day, the arrangements were reviewed time and again.Focusing more on security, TTD Security wing has set up 600 plus surveillance cameras at key locations in Tirumala for keeping an eye on the crowd. An additional 1,000 police personnel have been deployed in Tirumala for Garuda Seva. TTD JEO K S Srinivasa Raju reviewed the arrangements along with police officials and stressed for smooth handling of the devotees. “No one should be allowed to come behind the Garuda Vahanam and all the fencing around Mada Streets should be firmly secured,” he reiterated.