Tirumala, July 26, 2026: The annual Chatra Sthapana Utsavam, one of the unique traditional festivals of Tirumala, was celebrated with religious fervour on Sunday at the foothills of Narayanagiri.
As part of the festival, a team of temple priests and religious staff from Tirumala ceremonially consecrated and installed a beautifully decorated umbrella near Srivari Padalu, following Agama traditions.
Grand Procession to Narayanagiri
The celebrations began with a traditional procession carrying:
- Sacred puja materials
- Flowers
- Naivedyam
- The ceremonial umbrella
The procession moved through the Tirumala Mada Streets, reached Medaramitta, and finally proceeded to Narayanagiri, where the main rituals were performed.
Special Rituals at Srivari Padalu
At Srivari Padalu, the sacred footprints associated with Lord Venkateswara, priests performed:
- Tirumanjanam (ceremonial cleansing)
- Alankaram (decoration)
- Naivedyam
- Vedic chanting
Following the rituals, prasadam was distributed to devotees who participated in the festival.
Spiritual Significance of Chatra Sthapana
According to the Puranas, Narayanagiri, one of Tirumala's seven sacred hills, is revered as the place where Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy first set His divine foot during the Kali Yuga.
The Chatra Sthapana Utsavam is traditionally observed on Dwadashi. Temple traditions also state that since strong winds prevail on the hilltop during this season, a ceremonial umbrella is installed as a sacred offering, seeking protection from the winds and invoking the blessings of Vayu Deva for the welfare of devotees.
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