Tirumala’s Grand Celebration of Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi

As the calendar edges closer to December 23 and 24, the sacred corridors of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) pulsate with fervor and devotion. The meticulous orchestration unfolds, paving the way for the grandiose twin-day celebration of Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi at the hallowed abode of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala.

In these moments leading to the auspicious days, the air crackles with anticipation, each heartbeat echoing the reverence that saturates the atmosphere. The TTD springs to life, meticulously arranging every facet of this divine spectacle. The stage is set, the aura charged with spiritual energy, heralding the imminent arrival of an exalted celebration that draws pilgrims and devotees in an embrace of sacred tradition and profound spirituality.

Darshan Dynamics: Ticketing and Queues for Vaikuntha Ekadashi

• Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam Kickoff: The sacred journey begins at 1:45 am on Dec 23, with devotees immersed in the divine experience.
• Ticketing Extravaganza: TTD has rolled out a spectrum of ticketing options – from Special Entry Darshan to Slotted Sarva Darshan, Srivani, and even virtual seva darshan.
• Efficiency at the Core: To mitigate waiting times, an impressive 4,23,500 Sarva Darshan offline tokens will be issued across 92 counters in nine strategic locations in Tirupati.

Navigating the Labyrinth: Access and Facilities

• Token Distribution: Commencing from 2 pm on Dec 22, Tirupati becomes the hub for token issuance.
• Strategic Shift: On Dec 22, the script changes, and Srivari Darshan becomes exclusive via the Vaikuntam queue complex.
• Counters Galore: Ticket counters are strategically positioned at Vishnu Nivasam, Srinivasam, Govindaraja Swamy Choultries, and more, providing not just tickets but a host of amenities.

A Tapestry of Rituals and Celebrations

Lord Malayappa Swamy’s Grandeur

• Golden Chariot Parade: On Dec 23, from 9 am to 11 am, the divine spectacle unfolds as Lord Malayappa Swamy graces the Swarna Ratham.

Chakra Snanam and Theertha Mukkoti

• Vaikuntha Dwadasi Extravaganza: Dec 24 witnesses the observance of Chakra Snanam, also known as Swami Pushkarani Theertha Mukkoti, between 4:30 am and 5:30 am.

Critical Notes and VIP Protocol

• Festive Amendments: In the spirit of the ten-day celebration, Arjita Sevas and VIP break darshan stand canceled.
• VIPs in a Limited Sphere: A nuanced approach towards VIPs, ensuring darshan in a restricted manner, sans recommendation letters.

Ticket Tidbits: Availability and More

Executive Officer’s Revelation

• Ticketing Landscape: TTD, through Executive Officer AV Dharma Reddy, opens the curtain on the availability of 6.70 lakh tickets for the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam festival spanning from December 23 to January 1, 2024.
• Price Points: Details on 2.25 lakh Special Entry Darshan tickets priced at Rs 300 each and 4.25 lakh Slotted Sarva Darshan tokens.

Vaikuntha Ekadasi: A Tapestry of Spirituality

Understanding the Significance

Devotion in Motion: Vaikuntha Ekadasi, a resplendent festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, takes center stage, particularly in the sacred precincts of the Tirumala Tirupati temple. This celestial event beckons devotees into a realm of profound spirituality, weaving together threads of faith and reverence.

Rituals and Observances: Devotees, moved by an unwavering devotion, actively participate in prayer, fasting, and temple visits during the observance of Vaikuntha Ekadasi. The rhythmic recitation of the Vishnu Sahasranama and the mellifluous verses of the Shree Hari Stotram echo through the temple halls, creating an atmosphere charged with divine energy.

The Date, The Time, The Significance

• Calendar Pointers: Vaikuntha Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Margashirsha, this year on December 23, 2023.
• Significant Timings: Ekadashi Tithi begins on December 22, 2023, at 08:16 AM, ending at 07:11 AM on December 23, 2023.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2023: Embracing the Divine with Puja Vidhi and Celebrations

Puja Vidhi: Steps to a Sacred Connection

1. Dawn Awakening: Commence the day with an early rise, and purify the soul with a holy bath.
2. Sacred Setup: Place an idol of Lord Vishnu alongside the revered Shree Yantra on a wooden plank, creating an altar of divine energy.
3. Illuminating Light: Light a diya before Lord Vishnu, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and offering Tulsi Patra, signifying devotion.
4. Chants of Devotion: Engage in the recitation of the Vishnu Sahasranama and Shree Hari Stotram, immersing the atmosphere in sacred vibrations.
5. Mantra Resonance: Chant the potent mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye” 108 times, invoking the divine presence with each repetition.
6. Krishna’s Grace: Optionally, devotees can chant the Shri Krishna Maha Mantra, deepening their connection with Lord Krishna.
7. Evening Devotion: As the sun sets, continue the spiritual journey by offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings.
8. Bhog Prasad: Conclude the day’s devotion by presenting Panchamrit, a concoction of five sacred ingredients, along with homemade sweets such as kheer and halwa, as an offering of love.

Mantras for Divine Connection

Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye..!!

Repeat this mantra with sincerity and devotion, fostering a direct connection with Lord Vishnu.

Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare..!!

Chant this powerful mantra, known as the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra, to invoke the divine grace of Lord Krishna.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2023: Answering Queries

1. When is Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2023?

• Vaikuntha Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Margashirsha, specifically on December 23, 2023.

2. How is Vaikuntha Ekadashi Celebrated?

• Devotees in South India celebrate Vaikuntha Ekadashi with grandeur, observing fasts and engaging in rituals. It is believed that those who earnestly observe this fast attain salvation, breaking free from the cycle of birth and death.

In essence, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is not just a day; it’s a spiritual journey, a communion with the divine, and a celebration of faith and devotion.