Bhadrachala Sitarama Tirukalyana Mahotsavam

Aug. 19, 2023

A wonderful event which is centered around the Bhadrachala Sita Ramula Tirukalyanam (celestial marriage of Lord Rama and mother Sita) has been organized by the Bhadrachala Devastana Pandits(authorities) and Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Hyderabad at Sri Sathya Sai Nigamagamam, Srinagar Colony, Hyderabad.

The event appears to be well-coordinated with various activities and performances beginning from 7.30am.

1. Mangala Vaayidyalu (Sannai melam):

The event began with a traditional musical performance, involving instruments such as Sannai melam, creating an auspicious and festive atmosphere.

2. Vedam by Sivam Vedam Group:

Following the Sannai melam, the stage reverberated with the Vedam Chanting  by the Sivam Vedam Group. Vedic chants hold significant spiritual importance in Hindu traditions and are often recited at the beginning of auspicious events.

3. Bhajan by Sivam Bhajan Group:

Following the Vedam recitation, the Sivam Bhajan Group rendered devotional songs (bhajans) that praise and glorify Lord Rama. Bhajans are a common form of musical expression in Hindu worship.

4. Melodies of Ramadasu Kirtanas:

The Bhadrachala Devastana Pandits and the Sivam Bhajan Group presented melodious renditions of kirtanas (devotional songs) composed by Ramadasu. Bhakta Ramadasu, also known as Bhadrachala Ramadasu, was a 17th-century devotee and composer who is well-known for his compositions dedicated to Lord Rama.

5. Preparation of Lord Sita Rama Tirukalyana Idols and significance of the kalyanam:

During this time, the idols of Lord Rama and mother Sita were prepared for the celestial wedding ceremony. Pandits explained the significance and process of the Sita Rama Tirukalyanam (marriage) to the devotees.

6. Bhakta Sri Ramadasu's Ornaments offered to Lord Sita Rama:

As part of the wedding ceremony, Bhadrachalam pandits showcased ornaments offered by Bhakta Ramadasu, such as the chintaku patakam (coin necklace) and mutyala haram (pearl necklace), symbolizing devotion and reverence.

7. Mahila Vibhag Offerings:

    (a) The Mahila Vibhag of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations from Hyderabad district contributed offerings including Thalambralu , Goti Thalambralu, Muthyalu (pearls), Pattu Vastralu (silk clothes), saare (a variety of nine fruits, dry fruits and sweets) all of which are customary in wedding rituals.

    (b) The preparation of garlands for the wedding, stage decoration, and the decoration of the pallaki (wedding procession carriage) were also significant aspects of the event.

8. Highlights of the Event: Explanation and Maala Maarpidi:

• One of the highlights of the event was the detailed explanation provided by the pandits about each step of the wedding process, enriching devotees understanding of the ritual's spiritual significance.
• The beautiful and ecstatic dances by Pandits during the Maala Maarpidi (garland exchange) highly added a vibrant and festive touch to the event.

9. Sacred Water Blessings:

The pouring of sacred water to all devotees by the pandits over every corner of the hall is a symbolic act of blessing and purification.

10. Sevadal Duties:

The Sevadal members of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, were actively involved in ensuring the smooth running of the event. Their duties included managing the seating arrangements, decoration of the stage and hall, distributing Talambralu (rice grains used in wedding rituals), maintaining order in queues during darshan (viewing of the deities), and distributing prasadam (blessed food) at the end of the event.

(a) Auditorium Discipline, Talambralu Distribution, Queue Maintenance:

        These tasks reflect the dedication of the Sevadal members to create a comfortable and organised environment for the devotees. The Talambralu distribution is particularly significant as it symbolizes the blessings of the divine couple for a harmonious and blissful marital life.

(b) Darshan Time:

         Darshan time refers to the period when devotees have the opportunity to view the deities or sacred idols of Lord Rama and Mother Sita. The Sevadal efforts in maintaining order during this time contribute to a peaceful and meaningful experience for the devotees.

(c) Prasadam Distribution:

        The event concluded with the distribution of prasadam, which is considered to be sanctified food offered to the deities and then shared with the devotees as a blessing.

11) Invitees

       The event was attended by numerous devotees from various samithis, special invitees from district team, central trust office and government officials associated with the endowment.

Overall, the event had  beautifully combined devotional elements such as Sannai melam, Vedic chants, bhajans, kirtanas, and ritualistic practices like Talambralu distribution and prasadam distribution. The inclusion of detailed explanations and symbolic acts added a layer of understanding and significance for the devotees. It's heartwarming to see the collaboration between Bhadrachala Devastanam and Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Hyderabad to celebrate the spiritual and cultural heritage associated with Lord Rama and his divine marriage with mother Sita.

Ramesh