Andal Neerattotsavam – Divine Rituals of Devotion in Dhanurmasam

September 17, 2025 , , ,

 

Festival Timeline

  • Celebrated for seven days before Bhogi during Dhanurmasam (Margashirsha month).
  • Culminates in Godaparinayotsavam on Kanuma, the day after Bhogi.

Spiritual Significance

  • Godadevi (Sri Andal), the only female Alwar, performed Dhanurmasa Vratam with deep devotion, desiring Lord Srikrishna as her divine consort.
  • The Neerattotsavam commemorates her spiritual penance and divine union.
  • On Bhogi, Andal is ceremonially married to Sri Krishna Swamy, symbolizing the fulfillment of her divine desire.

Rituals & Processions

Neerattotsavam (Day 1–7)

  • Andal is taken in a palanquin procession from Sri Govindarajaswami Temple through Mada streets to Neeratta Mandapam at Ramachandra Teertham.
  • Rituals include:
    • Neerattam (Abhishekam)
    • Nivedanam (Offerings)
    • Saattumora (Public honor)
    • Asthanam (Royal court ceremony)
  • Andal remains at the mandapam till evening, then returns adorned with flowers and ornaments.

Bhogi Day (Day 8)

  • Andal and Sri Krishna Swamy ascend the Bhogi palanquin and move through the streets in a grand procession.
  • The divine wedding ceremony is performed at the temple with great fanfare, music, and devotional fervor.

Kanuma Day (Day 9)

  • Godaparinayotsavam marks the celebration of Andal’s divine marriage, with special utsavams, decorations, and devotee participation.

Cultural Continuity

This tradition is faithfully observed every year at Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, Tirupati, preserving the Vaishnava heritage and honoring Sri Andal’s divine love and devotion.

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