Tirumala to Celebrate Ratha Saptami Festival on February 4th, 2025 ...!!!

On February 4th, 2025, Tirumala will mark the celebration of the ""Ratha Saptami festival"", often referred to as a "mini Brahmotsavam." This festival honors the Sun God, Surya, and occurs on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha in the Magha month. The day's highlight is the grand procession of ""Lord Malayappa Swamy"" on seven different vahanams (chariots) throughout the day.

The festivities commence early in the morning with the ""Surya Prabha Vahanam"" from 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM, followed by the ""Chinna Sesha Vahanam"" from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, ""Garuda Vahanam"" from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, ""Hanumantha Vahanam"" from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, ""Chakrasnanam"" from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, ""Kalpavriksha Vahanam"" from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, ""Sarvabhoopala Vahanam"" from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and finally, the ""Chandraprabha Vahanam"" from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

In preparation for the festival, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has canceled several sevas on February 4th, including ""Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana, Kalyanotsavam, Oonjal Seva, Arjitha Brahmotsavam,"" and ""Sahasra Deepalankara Seva"". Privileged darshans for NRIs, parents with infants, senior citizens, and differently-abled individuals will also be unavailable. VIP break darshans are suspended, except for protocol dignitaries.

Devotees with Special Entry Darshan (SED) tickets are advised to adhere to their reporting times at the Vaikuntam Queue Complex to avoid delays. The festival is a grand event with extensive arrangements for crowd management, security, and facilities for devotees.

Ratha Saptami is a significant festival in Tirumala, drawing thousands of devotees from across the globe. The day is infused with spiritual fervor, cultural performances, and a sense of unity among devotees. The procession of Lord Malayappa Swamy on seven vahanams is a mesmerizing sight, eagerly anticipated by devotees each year.

The festival includes special pujas and rituals dedicated to the Sun God, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the onset of spring. The day is marked by the chanting of hymns, devotional songs, and prayers, creating a peaceful and divine atmosphere.

In preparation for the festival, TTD officials have held several meetings to ensure smooth arrangements for devotees. Executive Officer (EO) Shyamala Rao and Additional EO Venkaiah Chowdary have inspected the four Mada streets where the processions will take place. They focus on smooth entry and exit in the galleries, timely provision of food and water for devotees, and traffic regulation.

Ratha Saptami is more than just a religious event; it is a cultural extravaganza showcasing Tirumala's rich heritage and traditions, attracting tourists and devotees alike. The day is adorned with vibrant decorations, traditional performances, and a festive atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Ratha Saptami festival on February 4th, 2025, promises to be a grand celebration in Tirumala, featuring the procession of Lord Malayappa Swamy on seven vahanams. It is a significant event in Tirumala's religious and cultural calendar, drawing devotees from all over the world. The day is marked by spiritual fervor, cultural performances, and unity among devotees. The elaborate preparations by TTD ensure a smooth and memorable experience for all attendees.