Title: Tirumala Eyumalayan Temple Closed for 8 Hours During Partial Lunar Eclipse
Subtitle: Devotees Disappointed as Darshan Suspended
October 27, 2023
Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh – The Tirumala Eyumalayan temple, a popular pilgrimage site in Andhra Pradesh, remained closed for 8 hours on Saturday due to the occurrence of a partial lunar eclipse. Devotees were left disheartened as they were not allowed to have darshan during the closure.
The temple gates were shut promptly at 7.05pm on Saturday and were scheduled to reopen at 3.15pm on Sunday (Oct 29). The duration of the partial lunar eclipse extended from 1.05 am to 2.22 pm. Following the celestial event, the temple gates were reopened, and pujas commenced after the performance of Sudhi Puniyavasanam. Devotees were then allowed to experience darshan.
Moreover, the closure of the Yehumalayan temple led to the cancellation of the Sahasrati lankara service, as well as the darshan of differently-abled and elderly individuals scheduled for Saturday evening. Devotees expressed their disappointment as they were unable to participate in these important rituals due to the eclipse-related closure.
In addition to the Tirumala Eyumalayan temple, several other temples in Tirupati were also closed under the control of Devasthan on the occasion of the lunar eclipse. However, with the conclusion of the celestial event, all the temples were promptly opened on Sunday morning. The resumption of pujas and darshan brought joy to the devotees.
Meanwhile, Vengamamba Annaprasada Bhavan, a popular annaprasadam (temple food) facility, also experienced a temporary closure. It closed its doors at 6pm on Saturday but resumed its operations at 9am on Sunday, coinciding with the reopening of the temple gates.
Devotees, understanding the spiritual significance and traditional practices associated with eclipses, patiently awaited the reopening of the temples. The closure provided an opportunity for them to reflect and deepen their devotion, while the resumption of religious activities brought renewed enthusiasm and spiritual nourishment.
As the temple gates swung open and the sound of prayers echoed through the halls, the devotees eagerly embraced the chance to receive the divine blessings. The temporary closure due to the lunar eclipse was a reminder of the sacred connection between nature and spirituality in the hearts of the faithful followers.
As the Tirumala Eyumalayan temple and other places of worship in Tirupati resume their operations, devotees can once again seek solace and enlightenment, grateful for the spiritual sanctuary that these revered sites provide.