Tue Feb 04 15:51:30 UTC 2025: ## Tirumala’s Lord Venkateswara Blesses Devotees from Surya Prabha Vahanam on Rathsapthami
TIRUMALA, INDIA – Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, graced devotees with his divine presence aboard the Surya Prabha Vahanam (Sun Chariot) on Rathsapthami, celebrating Surya Jayanti, the birth anniversary of the Sun God. The event, which began at 5:30 AM, saw the deity proceed through the temple streets, bathed in the early morning sunlight.
Thousands of devotees thronged the streets to witness the procession and offer prayers. The Surya Prabha Vahanam, the first chariot in the Rathsapthami celebrations, symbolized the Sun God, Surya Narayana, the source of life and energy, considered a healer and the sustainer of nature. Tradition holds that witnessing Surya Narayana on this chariot brings prosperity, good health, and progeny.
The highlight of the event was the sunrise, with the first rays of the sun touching Lord Venkateswara’s feet, a moment of profound spiritual significance for the assembled devotees. The temple atmosphere echoed with chants of “Govinda,” as priests performed Vedic rituals and offered prayers. A unique aspect of the celebrations included 108 children reciting the Aditya Hridayam, a hymn dedicated to the Sun God. The entire event was considered incredibly auspicious by devotees who felt blessed by the divine darshan.
First Piper 