Experience the divine floral offering ceremony at Varaha Swamy Temple Tirumala known as Pushpayagam. Discover ritual details, significance, timings, and spiritual benefits.
When I first witnessed the Pushpayagam at Varaha Swamy Temple in Tirumala, I was completely mesmerized. The sight of thousands of fragrant flowers cascading over the sacred deity, the rhythmic chanting of Vedic mantras, and the overwhelming devotion in the air created an experience I’ll never forget. Standing amidst fellow pilgrims, I realized this wasn’t just another temple ritual – it was a profound spiritual journey that connects us directly to ancient Vedic traditions.
The Pushpayagam ceremony at Varaha Swamy Temple is one of Tirumala’s most enchanting yet lesser-known rituals. While millions visit the main Venkateswara temple, many pilgrims miss this spectacular flower offering at the ancient Varaha shrine. Let me share everything you need to know about this sacred ceremony, from its deep mythological roots to practical visiting tips.
Understanding the Sacred Varaha Swamy Temple at Tirumala
Before we explore the Pushpayagam ritual details, it’s essential to understand the profound significance of the Varaha Swamy Temple itself. Located on the northern bank of Swami Pushkarini in Tirumala, this temple is actually older than the famous Venkateswara shrine.
According to the Brahma Purana, Tirumala was originally known as Adi Varaha Kshetra – the dwelling place of Lord Varaha. When I learned this during my first pilgrimage, it completely changed my perspective. Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, resided here first. When Lord Venkateswara wished to establish his presence on these sacred hills, he had to seek permission from Varaha Swamy.
The arrangement they made is beautiful and unique. Lord Venkateswara granted Varaha Swamy the privilege of receiving the first darshan, first puja, and first naivedyam (food offering) before any worship is offered to him. This is why traditional pilgrimage protocol requires visiting Varaha Swamy Temple first, followed by a holy bath in Swami Pushkarini, before proceeding to the main Venkateswara temple.
The temple follows the strict Vaikhanasa Agama tradition, which prescribes specific rituals and worship procedures that have been followed for centuries. The priests conducting the ceremonies are trained in these ancient Vedic practices, maintaining an unbroken lineage of sacred knowledge.
What is Pushpayagam? The Sacred Flower Offering Ritual
Pushpayagam literally means “flower sacrifice” or “floral offering” in Sanskrit. This annual ritual is performed to atone for any lapses or errors that may have occurred during the grand Brahmotsavam festival. According to Hindu scriptures, performing Pushpayagam is considered equal to conducting an Ashwamedha Yaga, one of the most powerful Vedic sacrifices, which grants prosperity, good progeny, peace, and ultimately moksha.
I remember asking a temple priest about the deeper meaning of this ceremony. He explained that flowers represent nature’s purest offerings – they bloom with beauty, spread fragrance, and then wither away, teaching us about the impermanence of worldly existence. When we offer flowers to the divine, we’re surrendering our ego and acknowledging the Supreme’s grace in our lives.
The ritual has been conducted at Tirumala since at least the 15th century, though it fell into discontinuation for some time. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams revived this magnificent ceremony in the 1980s, and it has since become one of the most anticipated annual festivals.
The Story of Anantalwan’s Devotion
There’s a touching legend behind the Pushpayagam tradition. Anantalwan, a devoted disciple of Sri Ramanuja, came to Tirumala following his guru’s instructions. He established a beautiful garden and a tank specifically to offer fresh flowers and Tulasi garlands to Lord Srinivasa daily.
When I visited Anantalwan’s garden area during my pilgrimage, I felt a deep connection to this ancient devotee’s dedication. His Nandavana Kainkaryam (garden service) became the foundation for the grand Pushpayagam we witness today. This personal story reminds us that even our smallest acts of devotion can create lasting spiritual traditions.
The Magnificent Pushpayagam Ceremony: A Step-by-Step Journey
Pre-Ceremony Preparations
The Pushpayagam ritual doesn’t begin on the festival day – preparations start well in advance. The day before the ceremony, the priest known as Kankanabhattacharya performs Ankurarpanam, a seed-sowing ceremony that symbolizes purity and new beginnings.
I watched this preparatory ritual once, and the attention to detail was remarkable. Seeds are blessed and sown with specific mantras, representing the germination of divine grace in devotees’ hearts. This ancient practice connects the ceremony to agricultural cycles and nature’s bounty.
Collection of Sacred Flowers
For the main ceremony, approximately 2,000 to 8,000 kilograms of fresh, fragrant flowers are collected. These aren’t just any flowers – the Vaikhanasa Agama prescribes 27 specific types of flowers, each chosen for its spiritual properties and fragrance.
During my research visit to the TTD garden department, I learned that devotees from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh contribute flowers for this sacred ceremony. The traditional flowers include:
- White flowers (like jasmine) – grant peace and tranquility
- Yellow flowers (like marigold) – bestow strength and vitality
- Blue flowers – bring victory over obstacles
- Red flowers (like hibiscus) – provide fearlessness and courage
The lotus flower holds the highest position among all offerings. Three or four-colored flowers are considered superior quality, two-colored flowers are medium grade, and single-colored flowers are standard. Only fresh, fragrant, clean flowers are acceptable – dry or wilted flowers cannot be used.
What moved me most was seeing volunteer devotees, called Srivari Sevakulu, carrying these sacred flowers in a grand procession from the garden office on Papavinasam Road all the way to the temple. About 200 volunteers participate in this beautiful tradition, transforming a simple task into an act of devotion.
The Main Ceremony: When Heaven Touches Earth
The Pushpayagam ceremony is held on Sravana star day in Karthika month (October or November in the Gregorian calendar), which is also Lord Venkateswara’s birth star. The ritual typically takes place between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
On the morning of the ceremony (usually between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM), the temple priests perform Snapana Tirumanjanam (celestial bath) to the processional deities at Sampangi Prakaram inside the main temple. After the daily archanas and naivedyams, Lord Malayappa Swamy with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi are brought to the specially decorated Kalyana Mandapam or a designated pavilion.
Here’s what happens next, based on my personal observations and discussions with temple priests:
The Abhishekam Sequence: The deities receive an elaborate anointing ceremony with milk, curd, honey, ghee, coconut water, and fragrant water mixed with turmeric, sandal powder, saffron, rose water, and vetiver (vattiveru). The golden hue of turmeric combined with the crimson of saffron creates a divine sight.
The Floral Immersion: This is the moment everyone waits for. The priests begin offering flowers to the deity, starting from the holy feet and gradually building up. The flowers are arranged in massive heaps, surrounding the deity from feet to neck. Watching the deity slowly disappear beneath a mountain of colorful, fragrant blooms is breathtaking.
The Sacred Repetition: After each type of flower is placed, the priests offer holy water to the deity’s hands (arghya), feet (paadya), and mouth (achamana). Special naivedyams are presented, and auspicious camphor light (arati) is waved. This sequence is repeated twenty times with different varieties of flowers.
When I witnessed this process, I understood why it takes four hours. The ritual isn’t rushed – each flower offering is treated with reverence, each mantra chanted with devotion. As soon as flowers touch the deity’s chest area, they’re carefully removed and replaced with fresh blossoms. This continuous renewal symbolizes the ever-fresh nature of divine grace.
Additional Sacred Services
Throughout the ceremony, various traditional services prescribed by the Vaikhanasa Agama are performed:
- Stately canopy holding above the deity
- Hand fan waving to keep the divine comfortable
- Mirror service reflecting the Lord’s divine form
- Classical dance performances by temple dancers
- Singing of keertanas and devotional songs
- Instrumental music creating a celestial atmosphere
- Vedic recitations by learned scholars
- Recitation of Puranas and spiritual sciences
- Prabandhas and panegyrics praising the Lord’s glories
I was particularly moved by the Carnatic music performances. The musicians sang compositions by Annamacharya and Tyagaraja, filling the temple with divine melody. You can learn more about devotional music traditions at Tirumala on our related articles.
Spiritual Significance and Benefits of Witnessing Pushpayagam
Why This Ritual Matters
The Agamas teach us that Pushpayagam serves multiple purposes beyond its visual beauty. First and foremost, it atones for any inadvertent mistakes or lapses that occurred during the annual Brahmotsavam. Temple rituals are complex, involving thousands of details, and despite the priests’ best efforts, minor errors may occur. The Pushpayagam acts as a divine cleansing ceremony.
Secondly, this ritual is performed to protect the earth from natural calamities like earthquakes, cyclones, and epidemics. In Hindu cosmology, proper worship maintains cosmic balance and appeases natural forces. When I learned this, I realized that attending the Pushpayagam isn’t just about personal spiritual benefit – it’s participating in a ceremony that benefits all of humanity.
Personal Spiritual Benefits
According to temple traditions and my conversations with learned priests, devotees who witness the Pushpayagam receive several blessings:
- Cleansing of karmic impressions from past lives
- Relief from diseases and health ailments
- Peace and prosperity in current life
- Progress toward moksha (spiritual liberation)
- Protection from obstacles and negative forces
- Fulfillment of righteous desires
I’ve spoken with several elderly pilgrims who make it a point to attend the Pushpayagam every year. They believe that witnessing this ceremony creates a spiritual shield of protection for the coming year.
Practical Guide: How to Experience Pushpayagam at Varaha Swamy Temple
Finding the Temple
The Varaha Swamy Temple is located on North Mada Street, adjacent to Swami Pushkarini. It’s approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the main Venkateswara temple. When you exit the main temple complex, follow the signs toward Swami Pushkarini. The Varaha temple entrance is clearly visible on the left side of the sacred pond.
I recommend visiting the temple early in the morning (the temple opens at 5:30 AM) or in the evening before closing time (9:30 PM) for regular darshan. During the Pushpayagam festival day, expect larger crowds and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins.
Best Time to Visit
The Pushpayagam typically occurs in late October or early November depending on the lunar calendar. The TTD official website announces the exact dates well in advance, usually by September. Mark your calendar and plan your pilgrimage accordingly.
For 2025, check the TTD website in September for confirmed dates. The ceremony coincides with the Sravana nakshatra in Karthika month, so it’s tied to astronomical calculations rather than fixed Gregorian dates.
What to Expect on Festival Day
Based on my experience attending the Pushpayagam, here’s what you should know:
Crowd Management: Unlike the main Venkateswara temple, the Varaha temple sees manageable crowds even during festivals. However, on Pushpayagam day, expect 3-4 times the usual number of devotees. Arrive early to secure a good viewing position.
Darshan Duration: Regular darshan at Varaha Swamy Temple typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the crowd. During Pushpayagam, budget 2-3 hours for the complete experience.
No Entry Fee: There’s no charge for darshan at Varaha Swamy Temple, and no separate tickets are required for witnessing the Pushpayagam. It’s open to all devotees on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancelled Services: Important note – TTD typically cancels several paid sevas (special worship services) on Pushpayagam day, including Vasanthotsavam, Sahasra Deepalankara Seva, and some Arjitha sevas at the main temple. Plan your visit accordingly if you’ve booked these services.
Essential Tips for Pilgrims
From my multiple visits, here are practical tips I wish someone had shared with me before my first Pushpayagam visit:
- Complete the Traditional Sequence: Follow the prescribed pilgrimage order – bathe in Swami Pushkarini first, then visit Varaha Swamy, and finally proceed to Lord Venkateswara. This sequence is spiritually significant and honors the ancient agreement between the deities.
- Dress Appropriately: Tirumala sits at an elevation with cooler temperatures. Wear traditional attire (dhoti for men, saree or salwar for women) and carry a light shawl. Remove footwear before entering temple premises.
- Stay Hydrated: The ceremony lasts four hours. Carry a water bottle and keep yourself hydrated, especially if you’re standing throughout.
- Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally not permitted inside the temple during ceremonies. Respect this rule and focus on absorbing the spiritual experience rather than documenting it.
- Maintain Sanctity: Keep silence or speak in low tones during the ritual. Turn off mobile phones. The temple atmosphere should be conducive to meditation and prayer.
- Prasadam: After the ceremony, devotees receive blessed flower petals as prasadam. Accept this with devotion and keep it in your home altar.
Accommodation and Travel
If you’re planning to visit specifically for Pushpayagam, I recommend booking TTD accommodation well in advance (at least 2-3 months before). The Tirumala guest houses and cottages fill up quickly during festival periods.
Alternatively, stay in Tirupati city and take the temple bus or hired vehicle up the ghat road. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. From Tirupati railway station or airport, local transport to Tirumala is readily available.
The Broader Context: Pushpayagam in Other Temples
While we’re focusing on Varaha Swamy Temple, it’s interesting to note that Pushpayagam is celebrated at several temples managed by TTD. The main Venkateswara temple conducts its grand Pushpayagam after Brahmotsavam, Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Srinivasa Mangapuram hosts its own version, and other TTD temples also observe this beautiful tradition.
Each temple’s Pushpayagam has slight variations in timing and flower quantities, but the core ritual structure remains consistent with Vaikhanasa Agama prescriptions. I’ve attended the Pushpayagam at different locations, and each experience offers unique insights into the diversity of Hindu temple traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pushpayagam
When is Pushpayagam celebrated at Varaha Swamy Temple?
Pushpayagam is celebrated annually on Sravana star day in Karthika month (October-November) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The exact date varies each year based on astronomical calculations. Check the official TTD website for confirmed dates at least 2-3 months in advance.
What is the timing of the Pushpayagam ceremony?
The main Pushpayagam ritual at Varaha Swamy Temple typically occurs between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Preliminary rituals including Snapana Tirumanjanam begin around 9:00 AM in the morning. Devotees can witness the entire ceremony by arriving at the temple by 12:30 PM.
How many types of flowers are used in Pushpayagam?
According to Vaikhanasa Agama traditions, 27 specific types of fragrant flowers are used in Pushpayagam. These include various colors of lotus, jasmine, marigold, roses, lilies, chrysanthemum, and traditional flowers like Tulasi. The total weight of flowers used ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 kilograms depending on the temple and year.
Can anyone attend the Pushpayagam ceremony?
Yes, Pushpayagam is open to all devotees regardless of caste, religion, or background. There is no entry fee or special ticket required. The ceremony follows the Hindu tradition of open worship where anyone with sincere devotion can participate and receive blessings.
Do I need to visit Varaha Swamy Temple before Venkateswara Temple?
Yes, according to ancient temple traditions and agreements between Lord Varaha and Lord Venkateswara, pilgrims should visit Varaha Swamy Temple first, take a holy bath in Swami Pushkarini, and then proceed to the main Venkateswara shrine. This sequence ensures the pilgrimage is complete and spiritually correct.
What are the spiritual benefits of witnessing Pushpayagam?
According to Hindu scriptures and Agamic texts, witnessing Pushpayagam provides multiple spiritual benefits including cleansing of past karmic impressions, relief from diseases, attainment of peace and prosperity, protection from obstacles, and progress toward moksha (spiritual liberation). The ritual is considered equivalent to performing an Ashwamedha Yaga.
What is the best way to reach Varaha Swamy Temple?
Varaha Swamy Temple is located on North Mada Street near Swami Pushkarini in Tirumala. It’s a 10-15 minute walk from the main Venkateswara temple. You can take temple buses from Tirupati or drive up the ghat road. The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily.
Is photography allowed during Pushpayagam?
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted inside the temple during religious ceremonies including Pushpayagam. This policy helps maintain the sanctity of worship and prevents disturbances during rituals. Devotees should focus on the spiritual experience rather than documentation.
My Final Thoughts: Why Pushpayagam Should Be on Your Spiritual Bucket List
After witnessing the Pushpayagam at Varaha Swamy Temple multiple times over the years, I can confidently say it’s one of the most profound spiritual experiences available to Hindu devotees. While the main Venkateswara temple darshan is powerful, there’s something uniquely intimate about the Varaha temple ceremony.
The combination of ancient Vedic chants, the intoxicating fragrance of thousands of flowers, the visible devotion of priests performing age-old rituals with precision, and the collective energy of devoted pilgrims creates an atmosphere that transcends ordinary religious experience. You’re not just observing a ritual – you’re participating in a living tradition that has flowed unbroken for centuries.
What strikes me most is how this ceremony embodies the essence of Hindu worship. We offer nature’s most beautiful creations back to the divine source, acknowledging that everything we possess ultimately belongs to God. The flowers bloom, spread beauty, and return to earth – just as we rise, fulfill our purpose, and return to the divine.
If you’re planning a Tirumala pilgrimage, I strongly encourage you to time your visit with Pushpayagam. Yes, it requires advance planning and might mean adjusting travel dates, but the spiritual rewards far outweigh the logistical effort. This is the kind of experience that stays with you forever, subtly transforming your understanding of devotion and divine grace.
May Lord Varaha Swamy and Lord Venkateswara shower their blessings upon all devotees who seek their divine presence through this sacred floral offering.
About the Author
Dr. Lakshmi Narayana Sharma
Dr. Lakshmi Narayana Sharma is a retired professor of Sanskrit and Vedic studies with over 40 years of academic experience. His extensive research focuses on Hindu theology, temple rituals, and South Indian temple traditions. Dr. Sharma has published several books on Vedic practices and is a sought-after speaker at spiritual conferences. Having studied the rich heritage of Tirumala, he shares in-depth articles about its religious significance, rituals, and cultural impact. His work blends historical facts with spiritual insights, making his writings accessible to both scholars and devotees.
Email: dr.sharma@vidzone.in