A Rare Spectacle of 18 Garuda Sevas in One Evening

The 3rd Annual Brahmotsavams, known as Samatha Kumbh 2025, is underway at the grand Statue of Equality (a 216-foot-tall statue of Swami Ramanujacharya) surrounded by 108 Divya Desams. The event offers devotees the rare opportunity to witness 18 Garuda Sevas in a single evening, creating an atmosphere of spiritual and mental upliftment.

Highlights of the Day’s Events

Morning Meditation and Prayers

The day commenced at 6 AM with a serene and disciplined meditation session led by HH Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji. Young participants joined in Pra:thah Smaraneeyam / Ashtakshari Japam, followed by morning prayers at the Yaga Sala. Swamiji elaborated on the correct way to meditate, guiding the assembled devotees through the process.

Seva Kalam and Thirumanjanam for 18 Divya Desa Perumals

Devotees gathered at the Yaga Sala for morning prayers and aradhana. The sacred Teertha Goshti was conducted, and 18 Divya Desa Perumals prepared for Thirumanjanam, a ceremonial bath.

• Lord Ramachandra of Divya Saketam also received Thirumanjanam along with the 18 Perumals.
• The ritual used herb-infused water, milk, curds, honey, and fruit extracts.
• Sahasra-dhara Abhishekam followed, including Shankha-dhaara and Chakra-dhaara Snanam.
• Bhagavad Ramanuja also received the sacred service.

The Abhisheka theertham was sprinkled on devotees, offering divine blessings

Narasimha Ashtottara Namarchana – Devotees’ Collective Worship

Being a Tuesday, the Narasimha Swami Aradhana was a special highlight. Swamiji explained how Lord Narasimha upheld Prahlada’s words, manifesting in a unique form to overcome Hiranyakashipu’s boon.

• Devotees actively participated in the puja, following Swamiji’s meticulous instructions.
• Arrangements were made for comfortable seating for elderly devotees.
• Participants kept the idols used in the puja as souvenirs, enhancing their spiritual connection.

Ramayana Super Memory Contest

A unique Ramayana Memory Contest saw participants ranging from 10-year-old children to 80-year-old elders showcasing their deep knowledge of the epic.

• Round 1: The audience picked a Kanda and Sarga, and contestants instantly narrated its content.
• Round 2: Contestants were given a theme or incident and had to specify its Kanda and Sarga number.
• The event highlighted how young students are taking keen interest in heritage and epics.
• Swamiji encouraged more devotees to study and memorize Ramayana.

A live quiz link (tinyurl.com/sk-day1) was shared, allowing remote participants to engage in the contest.

Sri Ramanuja Vijnana Vedika – Debate on “Temples: Then and Now”

A thought-provoking debate featuring students from six colleges focused on the role of temples in modern society. The event began with the lighting of lamps, followed by insightful discussions.

Key Discussion Points:

• Are temples still relevant in an era of rapid scientific progress?
• Commercialization of temples – is it necessary?
• Do temples still function as centers of knowledge as they did in ancient times?
• The shift of temples into tourist attractions rather than places of devotion.
• VIP and normal devotee divisions – is this fair?

Speakers and Insights

• Chief Guest: Sriman Narasimha Sharma, Additional Solicitor General of India (Telangana High Court).
• Speaker: Sriman Raghavulu ji, Vishwa Hindu Parishad.
• Swamiji’s Address:
  • The importance of temples in spiritual and social life.
  • Their role in fostering self-discipline, devotion, and cultural preservation.
  • Insights into Bhagavad Ramanuja’s contributions to temple traditions.

The event concluded with a mangala neerajanam and chanting of sacred prayers.

Conclusion

Samatha Kumbh 2025 continues to inspire thousands of devotees through spiritual practices, insightful discussions, and immersive cultural experiences. The day was marked by a harmonious blend of devotion, knowledge, and participation, strengthening the connection between tradition and the modern world.