Karthika Masam 2025

Karthika Brahmotsavams 2025 Kick Off with Grandeur at Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Temple

Sacred flag Dhwajapatam carried in vibrant procession during Karthika Brahmotsavams opening at Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Temple, Nov 17, 2025.

The annual Karthika Brahmotsavams at the revered Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple in Tiruchanur (near Tirupati) has commenced with great fervor, drawing thousands of devotees to honor Goddess Padmavati, the divine consort of Lord Venkateswara. As the second most popular temple under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) after Tirumala, this nine-day festival (November 17 to 25, 2025) promises a blend of ancient rituals, vibrant processions, and enhanced devotee amenities.

Festival Highlights and Schedule:

The festivities began on November 17, 2025 (Monday) with the auspicious Dhwajarohanam ceremony, where priests hoisted the sacred flag ‘Dhwajapatam’ – emblazoned with the imprint of an elephant, the goddess’s celestial vehicle – atop the temple flagpost. This was followed by the Tiruchi Utsavam, parading the idol of Goddess Padmavati around the temple in the evening on the Chinna Sesha Vahanam (five-hooded serpent carrier).

Key events unfolding daily include:

  • November 18 (Tuesday): Pedda Sesha Vahanam and Hamsa Vahanam (swan carrier).
  • November 19 (Wednesday): Mutya Pu Pandiri Vahanam and Simha Vahanam (lion carrier).
  • November 20 (Thursday): Special visit by President Droupadi Murmu for prayers; Kalpavruksha Vahanam.
  • November 21 (Friday): Sarvabhoopala Vahanam.
  • November 22 (Saturday): Mohini Avatara Vahanam and Chandraprabha Vahanam.
  • November 23 (Sunday): Suryaprabha Vahanam.
  • November 24 (Monday): Rathotsavam (chariot festival) and Aswa Vahanam (horse carrier).
  • November 25 (Tuesday): Grand finale with Panchami Theertham (holy bath in the temple tank) and Dhwajavarohanam (flag lowering).

All processions occur around the four mada streets, with live telecasts on Sri Venkateswara Bhakti (SVBC) Channel for global viewers.

Devotee-Centric Arrangements:

Anticipating massive crowds (over 2 lakh expected for the finale), TTD has ramped up facilities:

  • Annadanam (Free Meals): 10,000 devotees served daily at the temple’s expanded dining halls.
  • Floral Exhibition: Inaugurated by TTD EO Anil Kumar Singhal at Friday Garden, featuring mythological floral displays.
  • Traffic & Crowd Management: Diversions at Navajeevan and Pudi Road junctions; ZP High School repurposed for overflow. Roadworks on Tirupati-Tiruchanur route may cause delays – check TTD app for updates.
  • VVIP Protocol: Seamless for President Murmu’s visit on Nov 20, without disrupting common pilgrims.

TTD EO Singhal emphasized, “Our focus is on ensuring every devotee experiences the divine grace comfortably.”

Quick Tips for Visitors:

  • Timings: Morning rituals from 5 AM; evening processions 6-8:30 PM.
  • Bookings: Free darshan; book accommodation via TTD website.
  • Poojas: Laksha Kumkumarchana prelude on Nov 16; Pushpayagam on Nov 26.
  • Travel: Buses from Tirupati Railway Station; avoid peak hours.

This festival not only celebrates Goddess Padmavati’s benevolence but also underscores TTD’s commitment to spiritual inclusivity. For live updates, visit tirumala.org or tune into SVBC.

Om Sri Padmavathi Thayar Namaha!