On the third day of the Srivari Navaratri Brahmotsavams on Wednesday morning, Sri Malayappa Swamy, blessed devotees on ferocious golden Simha Vahanam.
The incarnation of Lord Vishnu as the Mrugendrudu (most ferocious and strong among the animals, Lion) is an indication of Lord as a powerful avatar to punish the wrong doers in the universe and protection of the righteous, poor and the weaker sections in the society.
In the Yoga shastra – a Lion was seen as an embodiment of power and speed. The valour of Lord Venkateswara who had made such an animal as his vehicle is thus displayed in abundance.
The statues of Lions in the Ananda Nilayam, in the Srivari temple complex have also indicate the power of Lion King. The idols of Narasimha in Yoga mudra in the temple and also the idol of Lakshmi Narasimha on the way to Tirumala in Alipiri footpath route exhibits the significance of Lion (Simha) in the celestial entourage of Lord Venkateswara.
Meanwhile, kolatams, walking Gods and frenzied drum beating by hundreds of artisans as part of the Brahmotsavams enthralled devotees as the celestial Simha Vahanam of Lord Malayappaswamy sped ecstatically on the Mada streets on Wednesday.
TTD Chairman AV Subbareddy, TTD EO Sri Anil Kumar Singhal, Temple DyEO Sri Haridranath, Peishkar Sri Ramesh, VGO Sri Raveendra Reddy, Temple Staff and devotees took part.