Elaborate arrangements in place for the Ratha Saptami festival at Tirumala: BR Naidu

Chairman Naidu announced that full-fledged arrangements have been made for the festival, during which the deity Lord Venkateswara will be paraded on seven different vahanas (chariots) around the Mada streets of Tirumala

Tirumala: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Board will be making elaborate arrangements for the upcoming Ratha Saptami festival, scheduled to be held on February 4. TTD Chairman BR Naidu, who presided over the trust board meeting on Friday decided to initiate special measures to ensure a seamless experience for devotees.

Reiterating his commitment to make the Ratha Saptami festival a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all those who attend, Chairman Naidu announced that full-fledged arrangements have been made for the festival, during which the deity Lord Venkateswara will be paraded on seven different vahanas (chariots) around the Mada streets of Tirumala. The auspicious event will begin with the first rays of the sun at 6:44 AM, when the sunlight will touch the deity, marking a divine sighting.

The TTD expects around 200,000 devotees to attend the festival. Consequently, Arjitha Sevas (paid services) and privilege darshans (special entry services) will be cancelled on that day to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. Time slot tickets between 3-5 PM will also be cancelled. Those with special entry tickets will be allowed darshan at designated times.

A security contingent consisting of 1,250 police officers and 1,000 vigilance staff will be deployed to maintain order and ensure safety. Special measures are being implemented to manage parking, prevent fire hazards, and address traffic issues. The TTD will be making special arrangements in the galleries for the devotees.

To enhance security during the Chakrasnanam, divers will be stationed in the temple tank. Continuous distribution of food and beverages will be provided to those waiting in the galleries. Temporary shelters (chalava pandals) will be erected around the temple

The TTD plans to distribute 800,000 laddus to ensure that every devotee gets prasadam. Tirumala will be adorned with beautiful lighting and floral decorations adding to the festive atmosphere.