
Thousands of devotees take part in the procession of Golden Chariot observed in Tirumala on the occasion of Vaikunta Ekadasi festival on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit: ARRANGEMENT
In an atmosphere charged with devotion and spiritual fervour, the celestial Vaikuntha Dwaram encircling the innermost sanctum sanctorum of the Tirumala temple of Lord Venkateswara was opened in the early hours of Tuesday on the eve of the auspicious Vaikuntha Ekadasi.
After special pujas were performed in strict adherence to Agamic traditions, the doors of the Vaikuntha Dwaram were opened at the pre-designated auspicious hour. The hill shrine reverberated with chants of Govinda Govinda, reflecting the deep faith and devotion of the assembled pilgrims.
According to mythology, devotees who pass through the Vaikuntha Dwaram on Ekadasi are believed to be absolved of sins and blessed with salvation. Devotees moved in an orderly manner through the sacred passage with humility and reverence, seeking spiritual fulfilment after emerging from the sanctum of the presiding deity.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free darshan for devotees. Adding to the divine ambience, the Golden Chariot procession was organised amid great religious fervour, evoking rapturous devotion as the chariot carrying the processional deities rolled majestically along the mada streets. The shrine presented a dazzling spectacle with rich floral decorations.
Addressing the media, TTD Chairman B. R. Naidu said all necessary precautions were taken to ensure that devotees did not face any inconvenience. Executive Officer Anilkumar Singhal said priority was accorded to common pilgrims and clarified that devotees without tokens could avail themselves of Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan through Sarva Darshan queues from January 2 to 8.
Chakrasnanam will be observed in the early hours of Wednesday, marking Vaikuntha Dwadasi, at the temple tank Pushkarini, while arjitha sevas will remain cancelled for the second consecutive day.
Published – December 30, 2025 09:30 pm IST


