Teamwork helps TTD conduct Brahmotsavams smoothly

Extensive security, sanitation, medical, traffic and devotee facilitation measures helped the TTD manage the large crowds during the Srivari Salakatla Brahmotsavams. TTD Chairman BR Naidu, along with executive officer M Ravichandra and board members, told the media on Wednesday that the successful conduct of the nine-day festival was made possible by the coordinated efforts of TTD employees, police, district administration and other departments.

Naidu thanked TTD priests, officials, employees, police personnel, Srivari Sevaks, media representatives, district administration and devotees for their cooperation. Lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad visited Tirumala during the Brahmotsavams.

The chairman said special attention was given to devotees during Garuda Seva, one of the major events of the festival. All devotees who attended the event were facilitated to have darshan of Sri Venkateswara Swamy and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements. During the eight-day period, 5.76 lakh devotees had darshan of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala. The temple received Rs 28.94 crore in hundi offerings, while 33 lakh Srivari laddus were sold. TTD also distributed 21.84 lakh annaprasadams to devotees, while 2.04 lakh devotees offered their hair.

Security arrangements included the deployment of 3,000 police personnel and 2,400 vigilance staff during the Brahmotsavams. An additional 1,000 police personnel were deployed on Garuda Seva day. Medical services were strengthened with 50 doctors, 150 paramedical personnel and 16 ambulances. Around 4,000 Srivari Sevaks also rendered services to devotees throughout the celebrations.

Sanitation was another major focus, particularly on Garuda Seva day, when around 3,500 sanitation workers were deployed in Tirumala. Nearly 173 tonnes of wet and dry waste generated during the day was segregated and transported to the dumping yard. Around 600 employees from various departments in Tirupati were deputed to assist with Garuda Seva arrangements.

The celebrations also featured extensive cultural programmes. A total of 7,871 artists from 295 troupes representing 20 States and one Union Territory performed before the vahana sevas. On Garuda Seva day, 916 artists from 32 troupes representing 14 States participated.

For the first time, foreign cultural troupes took part in the Brahmotsavams. Performances by groups from Germany and Singapore received an enthusiastic response from devotees.

Another new initiative was the daily felicitation of four outstanding cultural troupes by the TTD Executive Officer.

Floral decorations added to the festive atmosphere, with 60 tonnes of flowers, four lakh cut flowers and 80,000 seasonal flowers used across Tirumala. Electrical illuminations and 36 large digital screens enabled devotees to watch the vahana sevas conveniently, Naidu said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pradeep Vennelakanti

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