Brahmotsavam grand success barring pilgrim's death in tank

Tirumala, Oct 3 (UNI) The magnificent nine-day annual Brahmotsavam of Lord Venkateswara passed off peacefully with lakhs of devotees having 'darshan' of the lord and witnessing the colourful processions every day, marred only by the death today of a man while bathing in the holy temple tank, 'Swami Pushkarani.' The festival concluded today with the 'Sudharsana Chakra' of the lord being immersed in the tank. A pilgrim among lakhs who entered the tank for a holy dip, drowned.

TTD executive officer A P V N Sarma today said all events during the Srivari Brahmotsavams had been conducted smoothly and over five lakh people offered workship to Lord Balaji, an increase of half a lakh people over last year.

At a press meet here, Mr Sarma said all departments of the Tirumala-Tirupati Devasthanams, police personnel and TTD vigilance department had done very well. Striking TTD employees too extended their support for the success of the festival, which ended today.

Temple JEO Balaramaiah said a record 60,000 free meals had been provided to pilgrims under the 'annadanam' scheme per day during the Brahmotsavam, besides free meals organised by other organisations and private parties. Over 9.60 lakh free meals were served.

To meet the demand, the JEO said 20 women barbers were appointed and additional male barbers had also been engaged for tonsuring.

About 2.45 lakh pilgrims had their heads tonsured.

About 1400 Sri Vari Seva volunteers rendered service.

Flower shows and a photo exhibition were the special attractions.

This year, bhajan mandals from each district of Andhra Pradesh and mandals from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharastra participated.

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