Divine Splendor of Garuda Seva at Tirumala – A Festival of Faith and Devotion

Every year, the holy town of Tirumala comes alive with divine energy during the famous Garuda Seva, one of the most important events of the annual Brahmotsavams. This grand occasion draws lakhs of devotees who gather with devotion to witness the majestic sight of Sri Malayappa Swamy seated on the mighty golden Garuda Vahanam.

On Sunday evening, the entire Tirumala reverberated with chants of “Govinda Govinda” as Sri Malayappa Swamy, the processional deity of Lord Venkateswara, was taken on a majestic procession along the four mada streets of the temple. The Lord, seated gracefully atop Garuda – His divine vehicle – blessed devotees with His divine presence and charm.

The Sacred Tradition of Garuda Seva

Garuda Seva holds a special place in Tirumala’s religious calendar. It is considered one of the most awaited days of the nine-day Brahmotsavams. Devotees believe that Garuda, being the divine vehicle of Lord Vishnu, is closest to the Lord. Therefore, darshan of the deity during this seva is believed to bring immense blessings, remove obstacles, and fulfill desires.

This year’s Garuda Seva was even more significant as it coincided with the auspicious Tamil Puratasi Saturday, followed by Sunday, resulting in a historic gathering of pilgrims.

Lord Adorned in Divine Ornaments

The Lord was decorated with special flower garlands, including the Andal Mala and Sikhamani Mala, which were brought all the way from Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu. These garlands are part of a centuries-old tradition followed with devotion. The famous Lakshmi Kasula Haram, a jewel studded with coins representing Goddess Lakshmi, was also adorned on Sri Malayappa Swamy, adding to His divine charm.

As the Lord moved gracefully on Garuda, devotees were overwhelmed with joy. The sight of their beloved deity, adorned in jewels and flowers, filled the air with an indescribable spiritual energy.

Devotees’ Emotions at Peak

The sight of Sri Malayappa Swamy on Garuda is a once-in-a-lifetime blessing for many. Thousands of devotees chanted the holy name with tears of devotion in their eyes. The entire Tirumala hills echoed with the powerful chant “Govinda Govinda”, creating an atmosphere of unmatched divine bliss.

The galleries surrounding the four mada streets were filled to capacity as lakhs of devotees assembled to have darshan. This year, the pilgrim turnout was much higher than usual, proving once again the unshakable devotion people hold for Lord Venkateswara.

Extensive Arrangements by TTD

To handle the massive influx of devotees, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) made elaborate arrangements. Special measures included:

• 24/7 Annaprasadam and drinking water facilities in more than 120 galleries with a holding capacity of nearly 2 lakh devotees.

• Traffic control by banning two-wheelers from 9 pm on September 27 to 6 am on September 29 to avoid congestion.

• Digital tracking bands for children and vulnerable persons to ensure their safety.

• 23 giant LED screens installed along the four mada streets and 13 additional screens outside galleries for devotees who could not enter the main areas.

• Medical facilities with mobile battery-operated cars.

• Deployment of 2000 Srivari Seva volunteers to distribute Annaprasadam and refreshments to waiting devotees.

The arrangements were designed to ensure that every pilgrim could experience the divine seva with comfort and safety.

Crowd Management and Security

TTD also appointed sectoral officers to oversee crowd control and facilities. To manage the large gathering, nearly 4700 police personnel, 1500 TTD vigilance staff, 2000 seva volunteers, and 500 deputation officers were on duty. Their combined efforts ensured the procession moved smoothly without disruptions.

The presence of dignitaries including the senior and junior pontiffs of Tirumala, TTD Chairman Sri B.R. Naidu, EO Sri Anil Kumar Singhal, along with senior state and district officials, added significance to the event.

A Festival of Faith and Unity

Garuda Seva is more than just a festival; it is a spiritual experience that brings people together beyond boundaries. The sight of devotees from across India chanting the holy name in unison created an atmosphere of unity, devotion, and divine bliss.

Every year, this festival stands as proof of the eternal bond between Lord Venkateswara and His devotees. With unmatched grandeur, spiritual energy, and the blessings of the Lord, Garuda Seva remains the soul of Tirumala Brahmotsavams.

Key Highlights of Garuda Seva 2025

• Sri Malayappa Swamy paraded on golden Garuda Vahanam.

• Special garlands from Srivilliputhur and Lakshmi Kasula Haram adorned the Lord.

• Lakhs of devotees witnessed the seva with chants of “Govinda Govinda”.

• Record crowd due to Puratasi Saturday and Sunday combination.

• TTD arranged food, water, medical care, and giant LED screens.

• Nearly 10,000 staff and volunteers managed security and pilgrim services.

Garuda Seva at Tirumala is not just an event—it is an experience of divinity, devotion, and unity. For devotees, the sight of the Lord on Garuda is a blessing that stays in their hearts forever.