According to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) officials, the incident happened during the distribution of ‘darshan’ tokens at the Tirumala Srivari Vaikuntha Dwara ticketing counter, near Vishnu Nivasam.
The TTD had set up counters to distribute tokens for the annual 10-day Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, which starts on January 10, allowing devotees a special darshan of the deity from the northern entrance. This major event is held during the Vaikunth Ekadasi (January 10), a highly auspicious day in the Hindu calendar, marked on the 11th day of the waxing moon in the month of Margashirsha.
Devotees observe fast on this day. It is believed that fasting helps them attain ‘moksha,’ providing them entry into Vaikuntha, which is Lord Vishnu’s celestial abode.
Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam
Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam is a major highlight during the Vaikunth Ekadasi in Tirupati, marking the ceremonial opening of the ‘Vaikunta Dwaram’ at the temple — considered the gateway to Lord Vishnu’s heavenly realm.
It is believed that an entry through the Vaikunta Dwaram will open doors to spiritual liberation and blessings for the devotees. This 10-day event provides a rare and sacred opportunity for the devotees to experience a divine connection with God.
The Vaikunta Dwaram, which remains closed throughout the year, is only open on the auspicious occasion of Vaikunta Ekadashi. Devotees consider this an auspicious occasion to get rid of their sins and seek spiritual blessings.
On this occasion, this sanctified entrance is specially decorated as the prestigious temple gears up to welcome hundreds of thousands of devotees from around the world.
To manage the crowd, the TTD issues ‘darshan’ tokens to the devotees that allow them to participate in the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam.
As of Thursday, January 9, a total of 90 counters were set up at eight centres in Tirupati for the distribution of free tokens for darshan at the temple.
“Elaborate arrangements have been made for the 10 days of the Vaikunta Dwara Darshan, to be held from Friday (January 10), keeping in mind the huge turnout of devotees,” TTD chairman BR Naidu told The Indian Express, adding that VIP darshan will commence at 4.30 am on Friday, followed by ‘sarva’ darshan at 8 am.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
