The 13-Day Brahmotsavam at Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple, Srikalahasti is one of the most important and grand annual festivals celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva (Vayu Lingam). This sacred festival attracts thousands of devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and across India.

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Why Brahmotsavam Is Celebrated

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Brahma himself is believed to have conducted the first Brahmotsavam to worship Lord Shiva. Hence, the festival is called Brahmotsavam and is considered extremely auspicious for spiritual upliftment and divine blessings.

Significance of the 13 Days

Unlike many temples where Brahmotsavam lasts 9 or 10 days, Srikalahasti Brahmotsavam is celebrated for 13 days, symbolizing:

• 12 zodiac signs (Rashis)
• 13 lunar phases (Tithis)
• Complete cosmic balance and planetary harmony

Each day has a unique spiritual meaning and ritual importance.

Major Events During the 13-Day Brahmotsavam

1. Dhwajarohanam (Flag Hoisting)

The festival begins with Dhwajarohanam, invoking the presence of all divine energies. This marks the official start of Brahmotsavam.

2. Daily Vahana Sevas

Lord Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy and Goddess Gnana Prasunambika Devi are taken in grand processions on different Vahanas (divine vehicles) such as:

• Hamsa Vahanam
• Simha Vahanam
• Nandi Vahanam
• Kailasa Vahanam
• Gaja Vahanam
• Ashwa (Horse) Vahanam

Each vahana represents a spiritual quality like strength, wisdom, devotion, and protection.

3. Abhishekams and Special Alankarams

Every day includes special abhishekams, alankarams, and Vedic rituals, performed according to Agama Shastras.

4. Maha Shivaratri Celebrations

When Brahmotsavam coincides with Maha Shivaratri, the celebrations become even more powerful, with:

• Night-long Rudrabhishekams
• Lingodbhava rituals
• Continuous chanting of Shiva mantras

5. Rathotsavam (Chariot Festival)

One of the most spectacular events, Rathotsavam, sees Lord Shiva taken in a massive temple chariot. Devotees consider pulling the chariot highly meritorious.

6. Theerthavari (Holy Bath)

On the concluding days, Theerthavari is performed, symbolizing purification and blessing of devotees and nature.

7. Avabhritha Snanam & Dhwajavarohanam

The festival concludes with Avabhritha Snanam and lowering of the temple flag, marking the successful completion of the Brahmotsavam.

Spiritual Benefits of Attending Brahmotsavam

Devotees believe that participating in the 13-Day Brahmotsavam helps in:

• Removal of planetary doshas (Rahu, Ketu, Kala Sarpa)
• Gaining peace, prosperity, and health
• Receiving blessings for marriage, children, and career
• Spiritual cleansing and karma reduction

Importance of Vayu Lingam During Brahmotsavam

As Srikalahasti houses the Vayu Lingam (Air Element), prayers offered during Brahmotsavam are believed to spread rapidly and remove negative energies, just like air.