The spiritual aura of Tirumala is descending upon Hyderabad this February. For residents of the city and devotees across Telangana, the Annual Brahmotsavams of Sri Venkateswara Swamy at Jubilee Hills represent a rare opportunity to witness the celestial grandeur of Lord Malayappa Swamy without making the trek to the Seven Hills.
From February 17 to February 25, 2026, the Jubilee Hills temple will transform into a “Mini Tirumala,” filled with Vedic chants, rhythmic bhajans, and the majestic sight of the Lord on various sacred Vahanams (vehicles).
The Prelude: Purifying the Sanctum
Before the grand festivities begin, the temple undergoes a traditional spiritual cleansing known as Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam. Scheduled for February 10, this ritual involves cleaning the entire temple complex, from the sanctum sanctorum to the outer walls, with a holy aromatic paste.
Following the cleansing, the doors open for Sarva Darshan (Free Entry) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, allowing devotees to seek blessings in a purified environment. The formal start of the festival occurs on the evening of February 16 with Ankurarpana, the seed-sowing ritual that symbolizes prosperity and the successful completion of the festival.
The Nine-Day Schedule of Vahanam Sevas
The Brahmotsavams are celebrated over nine days, with each day featuring unique morning and evening processions. These Vahanams are not merely decorations; they represent deep philosophical concepts in Hindu Dharma.
Standard Timings:
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Morning Seva: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
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Evening Seva: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
February 17: The Commencement
The festival begins with Dwajarohanam (Flag Hoisting) during the auspicious Aries Lagna (10:30 AM). This invites the 33 crore deities to witness the festival. The night features the Pedda Sesha Vahanam, where the Lord rides the mighty seven-headed serpent.
February 18 – 20: Divine Manifestations
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Feb 18: Morning brings the Chinna Sesha Vahanam, followed by the elegant Hamsa (Swan) Vahanam at night, symbolizing wisdom and purity.
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Feb 19: The Lord appears as a warrior on the Simha (Lion) Vahanam in the morning and rests under the Muthyapu Pandiri (Pearl Canopy) at night.
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Feb 20: Devotees can witness the Kalpavriksha Vahanam (Divine Tree) and the Sarvabhoopala Vahanam, representing the Lord as the ruler of all worlds.
February 21: The Grand Garuda Seva
This is the most anticipated day of the Brahmotsavams.
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Morning: The Mohini Avatar (Pallaki Utsavam) depicts the Lord in his beautiful female form.
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Night (7 PM – 9 PM): The Garuda Vahanam. Seeing the Lord on his favorite mount, the King of Birds, is believed to grant liberation from sins.
February 22 – 24: Power and Grace
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Feb 22: The morning features Hanumantha Vahanam and the evening the Gaja (Elephant) Vahanam.
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Feb 23: The Lord rides the Suryaprabha (Sun) and Chandraprabha (Moon) vehicles, signifying his control over time and the cosmos.
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Feb 24: The massive Rathotsavam (Chariot Festival) takes place in the morning, followed by the high-speed Ashwa (Horse) Vahanam at night.
February 25: The Conclusion
The festival concludes with Chakrasnanam (8:00 AM), a holy dip for the Sudarshana Chakra, and the lowering of the celestial flag (Dwajavarohanam) in the evening.
Cultural Enrichment and Devotional Spirit
The TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) ensures that the Jubilee Hills Brahmotsavams mirror the cultural richness of Tirumala. Under the Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad, the following will be organized daily:
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Kolata Dances: Traditional folk dances performed by local troupes.
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Bhajan Programmes: Soul-stirring devotional singing.
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Annamacharya Sankeertanas: Renowned artists will perform the timeless compositions of Saint Annamayya.
Final Thoughts for Devotees
If you are in Hyderabad during the third week of February, do not miss this spiritual extravaganza. The Jubilee Hills temple offers a serene atmosphere where you can participate in the Vahanam Sevas up close.
Mark your calendars for Feb 21st (Garuda Seva) and Feb 26th (Pushpayagam) to experience the peak of devotional fervor.
