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| Famous Tanjore painting, Garuda vahana .exoticindiaart.com |
Above image: Garada, the mount of Hindu god Vishnu an anthropomorphic form (a man with wings and some ornithic features). Surprisingly, Garuda is a part of state insignia of India, Indonesia and Thailand. Both Indonesia and Thailand have Garuda as their coat of arms, the Indian Army uses the Garuda on their Guards Brigade, He represents valor wisdom, protection and endurance. Eagles hold a special place in the hearts and culture of Native Americans, symbolizing strength, freedom, and spiritual enlightenment..............................
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| Srivari Garuda Seva and devotees, Tirumala, AP.stirumalatirupatiyatra.in |
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| Lakota native American chief with eagle head gear pics.craiyon.com |
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| Garuda Seva at Tirupati temple, AP. news.tirumala.org |
At Tirupati temple, Andhra according to the TTD officials to day Garuda Seva procession will begin at 6:30 pm and will continue till midnight. It is anticipated about 350000 devotees will watch the annual famous temple ritual on the hill. Special security precautions are taken to prevent threats from terrorists.
Garuda Seva is an important ceremonial procession and ritual associated with Sri Vishnu temples in particular in South India; It is more common in Tamil Nadu. In this ritual the urchaver - festival deity is carried on a Garuda Vahana, symbolizing the eagle mount of the god. Garuda (kite or eagle), the divine bird and vehicle of Vishnu, is a revered figure in Hindu mythology, symbolizing speed, strength, and the ability to traverse the havens. This ritual is considered highly auspicious and holds immense significance in the worship of Lord Vishnu.
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| popular Raja Ravi Verma painting Garuda vahana. fineartamerica.com |
Garuda symbolic of devotion, divine service, and protection, and carrying Vishnu on his back to fulfill the god's role as the protector and preserver of the universe.
The darshan of Vishnu on Garuda vahana it is believed will bless the devotees with victory, spiritual upliftment and courage tough phase in their lives. Garuda, being the king of birds, signifies the transcendence of the soul over earthly limitations and material bondage. Garuda is the younger brother of Aruna, who is a charioteer of the sun god, Surya.
Mythological Significance:
According to the Vishnu Purana, god Vishnu chose Garuda because of his immense strength and power. hence he earned the title of "Vainateya" after his mother Vinata.
Garuda’s has the ability to travel across the three worlds with Vishnu who symbolizes his omnipresence and supremacy.
Ritual Significance:
During Garuda Seva, the image or idol of Lord Vishnu (or one of his avatars) is mounted on a large Garuda vahana (may be made of silver or gold depending on the temples' richness) and carried around the temple or surrounding streets, allowing devotees to have darshan (holy sight). In some towns, several nearby temples participate at the same time with the respective festival idol on Garuda The belief is the presence of Garuda is said to ward off evil forces and bring prosperity.
Devotional Impact:
Participating in or witnessing Garuda Seva is believed to purify the mind and soul of the devotee, bestow good fortune, and remove obstacles in one’s spiritual journey. This seva is popular during special occasions and festivals.
Examples of Garuda Seva in Vishnu Temples
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh):
The Garuda Seva here is a grand event during the annual Brahmotsavam festival, usually held in September/October.
During the ninth day of Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateshwara is taken out on a massive Srivari Garuda Vahana through the temple streets, drawing lakhs of devotees. He will be covered by huge silk white umbrellas specially made in Chennai city from where the umbrellas are taken to Tirupati along with a religious procession. It is a centuries long tradition
The Garuda vahana procession is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with people chanting hymns and offering prayers. Witnessing Garuda Seva in Tirumala is believed to grant immense spiritual benefits.
Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Triplicane (Chennai, Tamil Nadu):
This temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his role as the charioteer (Parthasarathy) of Arjuna, hosts a majestic Garuda Seva during its annual festival.
Garuda Seva here is celebrated with great fervor, with devotees lining up to catch a glimpse of the lord on Garuda, who is decked with flowers and ornaments.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam (Tamil Nadu):
The Garuda Seva in this famous temple is performed during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival, as well as during the Panguni Uthiram and other temple utsavams. Lord Ranganatha’s procession on the Garuda is a sight to behold, and it is considered a key ritual to ward off negative forces and bring peace and prosperity.
Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, Udupi (Karnataka):
During Sri Krishna Janmashtami and other festive occasions, Garuda Seva is performed at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha.
The idol of Krishna, placed on the Garuda Vahana, is carried around the temple’s inner precincts, accompanied by chants and devotional music.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu):
This temple, dedicated to Lord Varadaraja (Vishnu), is known for its Garuda Seva during the annual Vaikasi Brahmotsavam.
Lord Varadaraja is taken on a grand Garuda Vahana, accompanied by priests chanting Vedic hymns, drawing large crowds who come to witness this sacred event.
Special Aspects of Garuda Seva
Alankaram (Decoration): The deities are often decorated with intricate jewelry and special garments, making the Garuda Seva visually spectacular. Chanting and Music: The procession is accompanied by the chanting of the Vishnu Sahasranama and other hymns, as well as traditional instruments like the nadaswaram and mridangam.
Community Involvement: In many temples, Garuda Seva is a major community event, bringing together devotees, musicians, artisans, and temple administrators.
Overall, Garuda Seva is a profound and cherished ritual in many Vishnu temples, celebrated with devotion and religious fervor.
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