Gold-plated wooden beam of palanquin breaks in Tirumala

Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, Oct 3 (UNI) For the first time in the history of Sri Venkateswara Temple, the gold-plated wooden beam of the 'vahanam' (palanquin) broke while the 'utsavamoorthies' (processional deities) were being taken around the four mada streets as part of the 'Dwajaharohanam' on the concluding day of Brahmostavam tonight.

After 'Chakrasnamam,' 'Swapna Thirumanjanam' and evening rituals, Lord Malayappa Swami and his consorts were being taken around the four 'mada veedhis' tonight when the beam of the vahanam which was donated by a devotee recently to Srivaru broke.

Timely action by the palanquin bearers saved the day and the idols were prevented from falling on the ground.

The procession was disrupted for nearly ten minutes during which the vahanam was replaced.

Later, the lord and his consorts returned to the temple. Poojas were performed and 'naivedyam' (divine offering) offered to Garuda.

UNI KNR GM DKA BD2249