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The annual Srivari Brahmotsavam, one of the most celebrated and spiritually uplifting festivals in Tirumala, reached its sacred conclusion on a Sunny Saturday with the grand performance of Chakra Snanam. The serene waters of Swamy Pushkarini echoed with chants and divine vibrations as the holy bath was performed to Sri Sudarshana Chakrattalwar, the anthropomorphic form of Lord Vishnu's sacred disc. This sacred ritual, which draws thousands of devotees from across the globe, signifies not only the culmination of the Brahmotsavam but also serves as a powerful act of purification and blessings for all involved.
The Holy Bath in Swamy Pushkarini
From the early hours of the morning, the sacred temple town of Tirumala was abuzz with divine energy. The day began with the Pallaki Utsavam, held at the Mukha Mandapam of the Sri Varaha Swami Temple between 3 am and 6 am. Devotees witnessed the deities being taken in a grand procession, a sight that brought immense joy and devotion to their hearts. Later, as part of the Snapana Thirumanjanam, the sacred bath ceremony was conducted for Sri Malayappa Swamy, Sridevi, Bhudevi, and Sri Sudarshana Chakrattalwar.
The Snapana Thirumanjanam itself is a mesmerizing ritual, wherein the deities are bathed in a mixture of milk, honey, coconut water, turmeric, and sandalwood paste. The ritual symbolizes the washing away of sins and impurities, not just of the participants but of the world at large. The atmosphere during the ceremony is one of peace, devotion, and deep spiritual connection, enhanced by the chanting of sacred hymns.
The Divine Rituals
The temple priests, or archakas, meticulously performed various rituals, including the Vishvaksen Aradhana and Punyahavachanam, invoking purity and sanctity. These were followed by Mukha Prakshalanam (face cleansing) and Dhoopa Nivedana (incense offering), creating an aura of divine serenity. The Chhatra Chamara Vyajana Darpanadi offerings, which include symbolic services with an umbrella, mirror, and fan, were also rendered to the deities, reflecting the honor and respect accorded to them.
A notable part of the ritual was the Arghyapada Nivedana, where the bath with milk, honey, and other auspicious substances was performed. These offerings signify the deep reverence and surrender of the devotees to the deities, seeking their divine blessings for health, prosperity, and overall well-being.
Vedic Chants and Prayers for Universal Welfare
The sacred atmosphere of the Chakra Snanam was further sanctified by the TTD Veda Parayanadars, who chanted Upanishad Mantras, Dashashanti Mantras, and various Panchasukta Mantras. The inclusion of hymns like Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam, Bhu Suktam, Neela Suktam, and Vishnu Suktam amplified the divine energy, invoking blessings for universal peace and prosperity. These mantras are believed to have a profound impact, not only on the devotees present but also on the environment, bringing spiritual cleansing and positive vibrations.
After the abhishekam, the atmosphere resonated with the melodious chanting of Pasuras by devotees and scholars in the presence of Tirumala pontiffs Sri Sri Sri Pedda Jeeyar Swami and Sri Sri Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami. Their presence added to the sacredness of the occasion, as they blessed the devotees and led the congregation in prayers for the welfare of the world.
Chakra Snanam: A Ritual of Purification and Blessings
The Chakra Snanam, performed at the end of the Brahmotsavam, holds deep spiritual significance. It is not just a physical act of bathing; it is a symbolic cleansing of the world, a prayer for the well-being of all living beings. The ritual is also known as Avabhrida Snanam, which is a purifying bath taken at the conclusion of a yajna to wash away any negative effects that may have occurred during the performance of the ritual.
As the sacred disc of Sri Sudarshana Chakrattalwar was immersed in the holy waters of Swamy Pushkarini, thousands of devotees also took a dip, believing in the purifying power of the ritual. The Chakra Snanam is said to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, granting spiritual merit and protection to all those who participate or witness the event.
A Festival of Devotion and Spiritual Renewal
The Srivari Brahmotsavam is much more than just a festival; it is a divine celebration of life, devotion, and the eternal bond between the devotees and Lord Venkateswara. The rituals, processions, and prayers are all designed to bring the devotee closer to the divine, fostering a sense of surrender and devotion.
As the last day of the Brahmotsavam ended with the Chakra Snanam, devotees returned to their homes with hearts full of faith, hope, and divine grace. The sight of the deities, the holy chants, and the sanctified water of Swamy Pushkarini left an indelible mark on their spirits, reminding them of the eternal presence and protection of Lord Venkateswara.
In this world filled with challenges, the Chakra Snanam acts as a beacon of hope, reminding us that through faith, devotion, and the grace of the divine, we can overcome any obstacle and attain peace and prosperity.
May the blessings of Sri Sudarshana Chakrattalwar and Lord Venkateswara continue to guide and protect all beings.
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