Srirangam Devotees Shoulder Padmavathi’s Vahanams for 35 Years

Tirupati: Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru’s annual Brahmotsavam in Tiruchanoor continues to maintain a unique tradition: Sri Vaishnavas from Srirangam, Tamil Nadu have been carrying the vahanams of the goddess for over 35 years.

Every morning and night, the deity is taken out in a procession with different vahanams, each weighing more than two and a half tons, including marri wood poles, wooden supports, umbrellas, accessories and the presence of priests. Sri Vaishnavas from Srirangam and nearby areas shoulder the entire burden by walking for about three hours through the four mada streets during both ceremonies.

Even though carriers often experience swelling and wounds on their shoulders, they continue their service without hesitation. “Swellings and pains are nothing compared to our dedication. We feel lucky to get this divine opportunity,” said a devotee.

More than 50 Sri Vaishnavas attend the mission every year. Many of them work in government departments, IT firms, railways, banking, private businesses or are students from cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. They all take time off from work to serve during Brahmotsavam. A TTD official said that they were provided with free accommodation, food, travel money and clothing in return for their services.

These devotees also perform similar duties at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam. Their disciplined and synchronized methods of lifting, walking and lowering the Vahanam ensure dignified carrying of the deity and enhance the devotional experience of the audience.

Vaishnavas consider carrying the vahanam of Sri Padmavathi, whom they worship as the consort of Lord Vishnu, as a blessing that brings peace and prosperity to their families. They are proud to continue this sacred service for more than thirty years.