Tirupati: As Tirupati witnessed Tataiahagunta Gangamma Jatara and Sri Govindaraja Swamy Brahmotsavam, the political strife that had plagued the city for the past few weeks has given way to peace and devotion. Tataiahagunta Gangamma Jatara, a local folk festival now recognized as a state festival, began on Tuesday and will continue till May 21, culminating with Vishwarupa darshan on May 22. Jatara is a homage to Goddess Gangamma, the sister of Lord Venkateswara. .
On this occasion, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) presented ‘Sare’ to Goddess blessings from his brother. As per tradition, TTD Chairman Bhumanakarunakar Reddy carried Pattu her Vastram for Goddess Gangamma. Thousands of devotees took part in a procession led by Karunakar Reddy from his residence to Tataiahagunta Gangamma temple.
Meanwhile, Govindaraja Swami Brahmotsvam began Thursday with an auspicious ceremony of hoisting Garuda Dhwaja Patam amidst Vedic chants. Prior to this, the priests paraded deities Govindaraja, Dhwajapatam, Chakratalwar and Parivaara on the four Madha streets of Tiruchi. That night saw a lively procession of Lord Govindaraja at Peddasesha His Vahanam, which attracted thousands of devotees who offered Harati to the deity.
According to the legend of the Tataiahagunta Gangamma temple, which dates back to the time of the local Tirupati chieftains, Gangamma rose to protect women from harassment and defeated the tyrant. In her memory, her inhabitants disguise themselves for her seven days during Jatara, symbolizing the goddess’ tactics to lure out tyrants. During the festival, apart from Pongal, each household offers refreshing drinks like buttermilk and ambali to the devotees.
