Tirumala, Sep 17th: Arrangements have been made for annual Brahmotsavam, festival at Tirumala from September 21 to 29. Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam (TTD) in its board meeting on Sept 17 cancelled special sevas and VVIP entrance and would keep the temple open for the darshan of general public during the 9 day celebrations. TTD would also cancel the entries for the aged and physically handicapped during the celebrations.

The event begins with 'Dwajarohanam' on September 21 while the main festive days are Garuda Vahanam on Sep 25, Golden Chariot on Sep 26 and Chakrasnanam on Sep 29. TTD Executive Officer (EO) I Y R Krishna Rao said accommodation would be provided in current booking on first come first serve basis and all advance reservation for accommodation would be cancelled during Brahmotsavam. Mr Rao said a special task force had been created to tackle the health issues in view of swine flu disease for pilgrims.

TTD would keep a stock of three lakh laddus, which has secured Geographical Indications (GI) status from the Centre for distribution to the pilgrims. Mr Rao said the TTD is organizing a garden and photo exhibition on the maintenance of the sanctity of the temple and the gardens. Devastanam is also organizing devotional and cultural programs, as well as music concerts and galleries in Tirumala. TTD would provide live-telecast of Brahmotsavam, and security would be strengthened in view of the celebration.