Introduction
The
Sri Draupadi Sametha Dharmaraja Swamy Temple in Srikalahasti, Andhra
Pradesh, is one of the rare Hindu temples dedicated to Dharmaraja
(Yudhishthira), the eldest of the Pandavas, along with Goddess Draupadi.
Deeply connected with the Mahabharata, the temple is renowned for its
unique annual Brahmotsavam, where important episodes from the epic are
reenacted through sacred rituals and traditional performances.
In
2026, the Brahmotsavam will be celebrated from July 17 to July 29,
drawing thousands of devotees to witness these spiritually powerful ceremonies
and seek blessings from Lord Dharmaraja and Goddess Draupadi.
About
the Festival
Unlike
many temple festivals centered on Vahana Sevas, this Brahmotsavam
features dramatic representations of Mahabharata events, including:
- Draupadi
Kalyanam
- Rajasuya
Yagam
- Draupadi
Vastrapaharanam
- Arjuna
Tapassu
- Agnigunda
Pravesam (Fire Walk)
The
festival concludes with Paruveta Utsavam, symbolizing the triumph of
righteousness over evil.
History
- The temple
has long been a center of Mahabharata worship, preserving
traditions that honor Dharmaraja and Draupadi.
- The
Brahmotsavam commemorates epic events, celebrated with devotion across
Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and neighboring states.
- It emphasizes
truth, righteousness, and devotion, values embodied by the
Pandavas.
Day-wise
Schedule
| Date | Festival Events |
|---|---|
| July 17, 2026 | Dwajarohanam, Pandava & Kaurava Story, Ankurarpana |
| July 18, 2026 | Pandava Vidya |
| July 19, 2026 | Hidambasura Vadha, Bakasura Vadha |
| July 20, 2026 | Matsya Yantra Chedanam |
| July 21, 2026 | Draupadi Kalyanam |
| July 22, 2026 | Rajasuya Yagam |
| July 23, 2026 | Draupadi Vastrapaharanam |
| July 24, 2026 | Arjuna Tapassu |
| July 25, 2026 | Uttara Gograhanam |
| July 26, 2026 | Duryodana & Dusyasana Vadha, Purnahuthi, Agnigunda Pravesam |
| July 27, 2026 | Vasantotsavam, Dwajavarohanam |
| July 28, 2026 | Kumbam |
| July 29, 2026 | Paruveta Utsavam |
Important
Highlights
- Dwajarohanam
– ceremonial flag hoisting.
- Draupadi
Kalyanam – divine marriage ritual.
- Rajasuya
Yagam – symbolic royal sacrifice.
- Draupadi
Vastrapaharanam – reenactment of the epic episode.
- Arjuna
Tapassu – penance of Arjuna.
- Agnigunda
Pravesam (Fire Walk) – sacred ritual of purity and
devotion.
- Paruveta
Utsavam – concluding procession symbolizing
victory of dharma.
Darshan
Information
- Devotees can
have darshan throughout the Brahmotsavam.
- Heavy crowds
expected during Draupadi Kalyanam, Agnigunda Pravesam, and Paruveta
Utsavam.
- Arrive early
for comfortable darshan.
- Traditional
attire is recommended.
Travel
Information
- By Road:
Well connected by highways; buses and taxis available from Tirupati,
Chennai, Nellore.
- By Train:
Nearest station – Sri Kalahasti Railway Station (570 m).
- By Air:
Nearest airport – Tirupati International Airport (26 km).
- By Bus:
APSRTC operates frequent services from Tirupati, Chennai, Vijayawada,
Nellore.
FAQs
- When is the
festival? July 17–29, 2026.
- Where is the
temple? Srikalahasti, Tirupati District,
Andhra Pradesh.
- Highlights?
Draupadi Kalyanam, Rajasuya Yagam, Vastrapaharanam, Arjuna Tapassu,
Agnigunda Pravesam, Paruveta Utsavam.
- What is
Agnigunda Pravesam? Sacred fire-walking ritual
symbolizing purity and devotion.
- Entry fee?
General darshan is free.
- Nearest
airport? Tirupati International Airport (26
km).
Conclusion
The
Sri Draupadi Sametha Dharmaraja Swamy Brahmotsavam 2026 is one of South
India’s most unique temple festivals, celebrating the timeless values of truth,
devotion, and righteousness from the Mahabharata. From Dwajarohanam
to the dramatic Agnigunda Pravesam and the concluding Paruveta
Utsavam, every ritual offers devotees a spiritually uplifting experience.