TTD temples under tight security as Andhra's Tirumala gears up for Brahmotsavams celebration

Tirumala: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam(TTD) Chief Vigilance and Security Officer Gopinath Jatti and Tirupati Urban SP Ramesh Reddy reviewed the security arrangements of temples in Tirupati on Thursday (September 10) as the nine-day annual festival Brahmotsavams is set to begin from September 19-27.

The officers discussed security arrangements in a meeting with TTD Vigilance and Police in Annamaiah Bhavan on Thursday evening at Tirumala.

TTD CVSO Gopinath Jatti said that as the annual Brahmotsavams are set to be held in Ekantham in view of prevailing COVID-19 restrictions, only devotees with on-line Srivari Darshan tickets alone will be allowed to visit Tirumala.

Since the offline issue of SSD tickets (free darshan) has been suspended, TTD has made extensive publicity for devotees especially coming from Tamil Nadu as part of the Peritasi holy month and other neighbouring states, that they should all possess online Srivari darshan tickets, which is mandatory to get entry into Tirumala. He appealed to devotees from all regions to co-operate with the TTD in making the Brahmotsavam festival a success by following the COVID guidelines.

The Chief Vigilance and Security Officer of TTD said special vigilance steps have been made for the protection of golden Rathams and wooden chariots present in the 49 TTD temples across the country and CC Camera Surveillance has also been enhanced on 24x7 basis. 

Speaking later the district Urban Superintendent of police Avula Ramesh Reddy said CCTV cameras have been installed at all TTD temples, mutts etc.to ensure protection to the holy places. He also said Security has been enhanced at all the 676 temples in the Chittoor district. Any activity by individuals or social media aimed at disturbing communal harmony and peace will be strictly dealt with.

The SP said as Srivari annual Brahmotsavam was held in ekantham in view of the COVID-19 restrictions, there was no need for special security arrangements by the district police except some police force to cover VIP visits if any. He appealed to the public to call upon WhatsApp no 8099999977 if they come across any suspicious movements if any.

TTD BRAHMOTSAVAM (ANNUL FEST) DETAILS:

The annual Brahmotsavam of Srivari temple at Tirumala from September 19-27 with Ankurarpanam on September 18 and Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam on September 15.

With a view to reduce the impact of ongoing pandemic COVID-19, the annual festival is being held in Ekantkam this year. (first time in history)

Following is the schedule of the programs:

September 19 - Dwajarohanam 

September 23 - Garuda seva 

September 24 and 26-Sarvabhoopala Vahanam in place of Swarna Ratham (golden chariot), Rathotsavam respectively in view of COVID.

September 27-Chakra Snanam and Dwajavarohanam.