Brahmotsavam @ Livermore Temple
The Significance of Vishnu Brahmotsvam - By Pdt Srinivasacharyulu, Livermore Temple, CA
Brahmotsavam is one of the most important functions at any temple. The name Brahmotsavam arises from Brahma the creator. Varaha purana and Brahmanda purana ascribe the names of ‘Brahmaklupthotsavaya’, and ‘Brahmotsava Mahotsukaya’ to the Lord. Bhavishyottara purana describes many Vahana Sevas while Venkatachala Mahatmyam by Tharigonda Venkamamba describes the details of Brahmotsavam. Devotees of Lord Venkateswara have been enjoying Brahmotsavam in Tirumala, ever since its origin all through the years. Available records show that the first Brahmotsavam took place in Aug 966 AD, two months after the consecration of the Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy Perumal deity. Vaikhanasa Maharishis say that performing Brahmotsavam confers not only materialistic and spiritual benefits, but also yagna phala (salvation). The word uthsava itself gives the meaning of a great yajna (Uth means great; Sava means Yajna).
Saint Annamacharya composed a Sankeerthana especially on Brahmotsavam starting from Dwajarohonam to Avarohanam. Emperor Achyuta Raya of Chandragiri enjoyed 12- monthly Brahmotsavams around the year. This led to greater prominence of Brahmotsavam over other functions around the year. This is also one of the reasons for its immense popularity over the years. Following this tradition, the first Brahmotsavam at the Shiva Vishnu Temple at Livermore, California, USA, took place after the consecration of the Dwajasthambas in 1998, followed by six more till date (September 2004). This count excludes the intercalary month (Adhikamasa) Brahmotsavams.
All categories of devotees, for example, Vedaparayana scholars, prabandha reciters, musicians, dancers, garland makers, etc. regardless of caste, creed, sex, and age involve themselves for the success of Brahmotsavam with great devotion and pleasure. Vahana sevas where the young and old, rich and poor lend a hand depict this unity of purpose distinctly. *
Check out the pictures of the 3 days events and may Lord Venkateswara and Sri Lakshmi Thayar and Bhooma Devi bless all of us.
Date(s): October 15 - 17, 2004. 1 - 3 of 3 Total. Shared |
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