The sacred town of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is gearing up for its grand annual Teppotsavam, also known as the Float Festival. Every year, this festival draws thousands of devotees. Now, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made all arrangements for the five-day event. The celebrations will begin on February 26 and continue until March 2.
Meanwhile, workers are decorating the sacred Swami Pushkarini with flowers, lights, and colourful designs. The temple tank looks bright and festive as the date approaches.
A Festival with Deep Spiritual Meaning
The Teppotsavam holds special importance in Tirumala’s yearly calendar. Devotees eagerly wait for this event. It takes place during the Phalguna month, starting on Ekadashi. Moreover, the festival marks the start of the summer season.
During these five days, priests perform rituals with devotion and care. The float moves around the Neerali Mandapam, which stands in the northeast corner of the Pushkarini. Saluva Narasimha Raya built this mandapam in the 15th century. Therefore, the festival also reflects the temple’s rich history.
Day-Wise Rituals and Celebrations
Each day of the festival has a unique theme and meaning.
Day 1 (February 26):
Lord Venkateswara appears as Lord Rama, symbolising the Treta Yuga. First, priests take the deity in a procession through the Mada streets. Then, the float makes three rounds in the Pushkarini.
Day 2:
On the second day, the Lord appears as Lord Krishna, representing the Dwapara Yuga. Devotees gather in large numbers to receive darshan. Afterwards, the float ceremony continues in the evening.
Days 3 to 5:
From the third day onward, Malayappa Swamy, along with Sridevi and Bhudevi, rides the decorated float. Importantly, the number of rounds increases each day. On the final day, the float completes seven rounds. As a result, devotees enjoy a grand and memorable sight.
Strong Arrangements for Safety and Comfort
TTD officials have taken several steps to ensure safety. Engineers tested the float in advance. They checked its strength and balance carefully. As a result, the team confirmed that the structure is safe.
In addition, the horticulture department decorated the area with fresh flowers and special plants. Workers added colourful lighting around the temple tank and Mada streets. Consequently, the entire area now shines beautifully at night.
Furthermore, officials set up queue lines near the Pushkarini steps. Security teams will monitor the crowd closely. These steps will help devotees move smoothly and safely.
Temporary Restrictions During the Festival
However, TTD has announced some temporary changes. Devotees cannot bathe in the Swami Pushkarini from February 20 to March 5. Officials made this decision to ensure safety and smooth management.
TTD has also cancelled certain Arjita Sevas:
February 26 and 27: Sahasra Deepalankara Seva will not take place.
February 28 to March 2: Arjita Brahmotsavam and Sahasra Deepalankara Seva will remain cancelled.
Officials clarified that these steps will help them conduct the festival without any issues.
A Grand Spiritual Experience Awaits
Overall, the annual Teppotsavam promises a joyful and spiritual experience. The shining waters of the Pushkarini, the bright lights, and the sacred chants create a peaceful atmosphere. Every year, the festival strengthens the faith of thousands of devotees.
Once again, Tirumala prepares to celebrate this divine event with devotion, beauty, and tradition.
