Bengaluru: The annual Salakatla Brahmotsava will be held with grandeur from September 24 to October 2, 2025, at the famous holy town of Tirupati in South India. Preparations are in full swing to ensure a smooth and vibrant celebration.
Rituals and Key Events
The festivities will begin on September 23 with the sacred Ankurarpanam (sowing of seeds) ritual, which marks the formal start of the Brahmotsava, said S. Naresh Kumar, member of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD). The main highlight will be Dhwajarohanam (flag hoisting) on September 24, where the Garuda flag will be hoisted to invite the deities and sages to the festival.
Important Days and Vehicle Services
- September 24 (Wednesday): Dhwajarohanam, night Pedda Shesha Vahanam
- September 28 (Sunday): Garuda Seva, the grandest event attracting lakhs of devotees
- October 1 (Wednesday): Morning Rathotsavam
- October 2 (Thursday): Chakra Snanam and Dhwajavarohanam, marking the festival’s conclusion
TTD, in coordination with the district administration and police, has made extensive arrangements to ensure devotees do not face inconvenience.
VIP Participation and Devotee Arrangements
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh will offer the Pattuvastri during the flag hoisting on September 24 and inaugurate PAC 5 on September 25. Around 1,500 additional staff have been appointed for Kalyana Katte. During the nine-day festival, 3,500 rooms will be allotted offline, prioritizing general devotees.
Facilities for Devotees
Thirty-six LED screens will broadcast the vehicle services. Daily distribution includes 1.16 lakh special darshan tickets and 25,000 SSD tokens, except on Garuda Seva Day. VIP break darshans will be restricted to in-person VIPs, while all other privilege darshans have been cancelled. Eight lakh laddus will be prepared daily. Twenty help centres have been set up, with 14 types of snacks distributed on Garuda Seva Day. Annaprasadam will be served daily from 8 am to 11 pm.
Transport and Parking
Tirumala can accommodate about 4,000 vehicles, while Tirupati has 5,250 two-wheeler and 2,700 four-wheeler parking slots. RTC buses will shuttle devotees, with 1,900 trips on regular days and 3,200 trips on Garuda Seva Day.
Security and Medical Measures
A total of 2,000 TTD security personnel, 4,700 police officers, 3,500 Srivari Sevaks, and 450 senior TTD officials will be deployed. Security is supported by 3,000 CCTV cameras. Medical arrangements include 50 doctors, 60 paramedics, and several ambulances. Over 3,200 sanitation personnel and 1,150 Keshamunda staff will ensure cleanliness and crowd management.
Cultural Performances
For the first time, 298 cultural groups from 28 states will perform during the festival, with 37 groups showcasing their art on Garuda Seva Day.
Special Event in Bengaluru
Jayanthi, Superintendent of Bengaluru TTD Temple, said a special 10-day puja has been organized at the Vaiyaalikaval temple. Devotees can participate in the puja and witness the elaborate decoration of the Swami.
