Samatha Kumbh 2025 Begins with Grandeur at the Statue of Equality

Hyderabad: The 3rd Annual Brahmotsavams, known as “Samatha Kumbh 2025,” commenced with great devotion and enthusiasm at the magnificent Statue of Equality (216 feet tall statue of Swami Ramanujacharya) and the surrounding 108 Divya Desams. The event, marking the third anniversary of this iconic spiritual site, was inaugurated with sacred rituals, prayers, and Vedic ceremonies.

Day One: Commencement of Brahmotsavams

The day began at 6:00 AM in a serene and spiritually charged atmosphere, where devotees, scholars, and Vedic students gathered for morning prayers and meditation. As a precursor to the main events, the Vishwaksena Puja, Punyaham, and other associated rituals were conducted to invoke divine blessings.

Guided Meditation by HH Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji

His Holiness Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji led a meditation session, explaining the traditional purification process before engaging in spiritual practice. The meditation method included:

  • Purification of body, senses (indriyas), and mind (manas) through contemplation.
  • Sankalpam (sacred resolution) and correct sitting posture with palms placed one over the other.
  • Chanting the divine nama (name of God) with devotion, focusing on Lord Srimannarayana, Mother Lakshmi, and the divine entourage.
  • Visualizing the divine presence moving from the navel to the heart, purifying the body through cycles of fire (Jyoti), water, and wind.
  • Traversing the vast universe with the guidance of God, crossing celestial spheres, and reaching Viraja River, where a divine touch transforms the soul, preparing it for God’s abode (Parama Padam).
  • Sacred bath (Pushkarini Snanam) and receiving divine decorations before entering the presence of the Supreme Lord.
  • Offering prayers and services to the divine within, seeking strength and wisdom for daily life.

Following the meditation, devotees proceeded to the Yaga Sala, where morning aradhana was offered. Swamiji blessed the assembled devotees during the Teertha-Goshti, distributing sacred water and prasadam.

Dhwajaarohanam: The Hoisting of Garuda Patam

The Dhwajaarohanam ceremony began with Lord Rama’s arrival on the Surya-Prabha Vahanam, facing the Statue of Equality and 108 Divya Desams. The Garuda Patam (sacred flag with Garuda’s image), prepared and worshipped the previous day, was fetched by Rutwiks and hoisted atop the Dhwaja Sthambham with sacred Vedic chants.

  • Significance of Garuda: As the embodiment of the Vedas, Garuda ensures devotees gain clarity about God. In Brahmotsavams, he is responsible for inviting divine beings and marking the place of worship.
  • Special Prasadam: In accordance with Agama Shastras, a unique food offering, Garuda Prasadam, was prepared. This prasadam is believed to have special blessings for couples desirous of progeny, with numerous testimonials of divine grace fulfilling such wishes.

Commencement of Homams (Agni Pratishta)

The day’s proceedings culminated with the preparation of Homa Kundams (sacred fire pits) in various prescribed shapes inside the Yaga Sala, as per Agama traditions. This marked the commencement of Veda Parayanam, Ramayana chanting, and scriptural recitations, infusing the space with divine vibrations.

The first day of Samatha Kumbh 2025 set the stage for nine days of grand celebrations, spiritual discourses, and devotional festivities, drawing thousands of devotees from across the country to experience the divine presence at the Statue of Equality.