On the occasion of Ugadi (Telugu New Year), one of the major festivals of South India, preparations have begun for a grand event at the famous Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has shared information about temple darshan rules and special rituals in view of Ugadi Asthanam to be held on March 19.
In honor of the Ugadi festival, the temple premises will be purified as per tradition. TTD will organize Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam on March 17 (Tuesday). Due to purification ceremony and Ugadi festival, some major changes have been made in the normal darshan arrangements. TTD has completely canceled VIP darshan due to Koil Alvar Thirumanjanam on 17th March.
No recommendation letter will be accepted for VIP darshan on 16th March. Only specific persons coming under the purview of the protocol will be allowed. Even on the day of main festival on 19th March (Ugadi), all VIP darshan except for protocol dignitaries will remain closed. For this, no recommendation letter will be taken on March 18.
What is the importance of Ugadi?
Ugadi is celebrated as New Year mainly in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka on Pratipada of Chaitra month of Hindu lunar calendar. It symbolizes the arrival of spring and new beginnings. Special Panchanga Shravanam and Asthanam are organized on this day in temples like Tirumala. On this day, devotees consume traditional Ugadi Pachadi, which is made from things like neem, jaggery, tamarind and mango. This dish reflects the balance of various experiences (happiness and sorrow) of life.