In Melkote, the celebration of Garudotsava occurs one day ahead of Brahmotsava. Under strict security protocols, the Mandhya district administration arranges the meticulous transportation of the Vairamudi crown from the Mandya treasury to the temple. It’s thought that daylight exposure to the crown is a requirement. It will therefore be kept in a unique coffin. From here, it is transported in a ceremonial palanquin to the temple. It arrives at the temple late at night. In front of Sri Acharya Ramanuja’s shrine, the chief priest installs the crown and fits the Vairamudi to the Lord Cheluvanarayana statue. It is customary for not even the chief priest to see the Vairamudi with the naked eye until it is ready for the Lord. Thus, as the crown is being fitted, the priest conceals his eyes with a silk robe.
Specialty of Festival:
The focal point of the Vairamudi event is the vairamudi, or diamond-studded crown. During the off-season, the diamond crown is transported to Melukote under strict protection after being secured in a neighbouring city for the remainder of the year. On top of the statue of Lord Cheluvanarayana Swamy, a crown will be installed. The main attraction of the Vairamudi festival is the Rathotsava, or Car Festival. The 13-day Vairamudi celebration includes a boat festival, Nagavalli Mahotsava and Gajendra Moksha.
Month of Festival:
April
