The sacred hills of Tirupati are set to reverberate with divine energy as the annual Sri Kapileswara Swamy Brahmotsavams will be celebrated from February 8 to February 17, 2026. This grand nine-day festival, one of the most significant events in the Tirupati temple calendar, attracts thousands of devotees to witness the majestic processions and ancient rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kapileswara.
The festivities will commence with the Ankurarpana ritual (the sowing of seeds, symbolizing the inception of the utsavam) on February 7, 2026. The main highlight of the Brahmotsavams is the daily Vahana Sevas, where the deity is taken in procession on different sacred vehicles, each with profound spiritual symbolism.
Detailed Schedule of Vahana Sevas (Feb 8, 2026 to Feb 17, 2026)
Devotees can witness two divine processions each day: one in the morning and one at night. All Vahana Sevas are scheduled from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, unless specified otherwise below.
| Date | Morning Seva (7 AM – 9 AM) | Evening/Night Seva (7 PM – 9 PM) | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 8 | Pallaki Seva | Hamsa Vahanam (Swan) | Dwajarohanam (flag hoisting) at 6:05 AM |
| Feb 9 | Surya Prabha Vahanam (Sun Chariot) | Chandra Prabha Vahanam (Moon Chariot) | – |
| Feb 10 | Bhuta Vahanam (Ghost/Spirit) | Simha Vahanam (Lion) | – |
| Feb 11 | Makara Vahanam (Crocodile) | Sesha Vahanam (Divine Serpent) | – |
| Feb 12 | Tiruchi Utsavam | Adhikara Nandi Vahanam (Bull) | – |
| Feb 13 | Vyaghra Vahanam (Tiger) | Gaja Vahanam (Elephant) | – |
| Feb 14 | Kalpavriksha Vahanam (Wish-fulfilling Tree) | Ashwa Vahanam (Horse) | – |
| Feb 15 | Rathotsavam (Chariot Festival) | Nandi Vahanam (Bull) | Morning: Bhogi Theru |
| Feb 16 | Purushamruga Vahanam (8 AM – 10 AM) | Tiruchi Utsavam (8 PM – 10 PM) | Kalyanotsavam (Divine Marriage) from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM |
| Feb 17 | Sri Nataraja on Surya Prabha (6:30 AM – 9 AM) Trishula Snanam (9 AM – 10:30 AM) | Ravanasura Vahanam (8 PM – 10 PM) | Dwajavarohanam (flag lowering) from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM |
Cultural Programs & Key Information
Alongside the Vahana Sevas, the TTD Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad will organize vibrant cultural programs daily in front of the procession route. These will include traditional Kolata dances, Bhajan sessions, and devotional music performances by artists from the Annamacharya Project, enriching the spiritual atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where do the Vahana Seva processions take place?
The processions are carried out along the four Mada Streets surrounding the Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple in Tirupati. Devotees can view them from the sidewalks.
Q2: Are there any special darshan arrangements during Brahmotsavams?
While the Vahana Sevas are public processions, darshan inside the temple sanctum may have extended hours and different queues. It is advisable to follow instructions from TTD volunteers and check for daily announcements.
Q3: What is the significance of the different Vahanas?
Each vehicle represents a different aspect of the divine. For example, the Sesha Vahanam symbolizes the Lord’s eternal rest and cosmic support, while the Rathotsavam (Chariot) symbolizes the journey of the soul, with devotees pulling the ropes being considered highly auspicious.
Q4: What are the most important days to witness?
The inaugural day (Feb 8) with the flag hoisting, the Rathotsavam (Feb 15), the Kalyanotsavam (Feb 16), and the grand finale with Trishula Snanam and Ravanasura Vahanam (Feb 17) are particularly significant and draw the largest crowds.
Q5: How should devotees plan their visit?
- Arrive well in advance to secure a good viewing spot for the processions.
- Expect massive crowds, especially on weekends and the key days mentioned above.
- Follow all instructions from TTD security and volunteers for a smooth and safe experience.
- Stay updated via the official TTD website or notice boards for any last-minute changes in timings.
May all devotees who witness this grand festival receive the boundless blessings of Sri Kapileswara Swamy. We hope this guide helps you plan a fulfilling and spiritually enriching visit to the 2026 Brahmotsavams.
