Karthika Monday festival in Ahobilam

The Ahobila Mutt, in celebration of the auspicious Karthika month, conducted the Vanabhojana Mahotsavam on Monday. It was marked by a series of special programmes and pujas within the Mutt and its premises.

There was a procession of the mutt’s presiding deity, Lord Prahlada Varadha, accompanied by his consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi journeying to ‘Lakshmi Vanam’, a site located a kilometre away from the main temple near Alwar Koneru in the Nallamala forest.

At Vanam, the mutt officials and priests performed Thirumanjanam for the lord followed by a Carnatic music vocal concert and Annadanam for the devotees.

The evening saw the return of the deities to the temple in a flower palanquin, accompanied by special Nadhaswaram music, grand fireworks and other festivities. Devotees from various districts participated in the events in large numbers and received blessings from Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swami.
S Sampath of the mutt explained the historical significance of the Karthika Somavaram festival at Ahobilam.

He referenced inscriptions from 1547 AD and 1548 AD, noting the festival’s ancient roots. He stated that while Karthika Somavaram is traditionally associated with Lord Siva, it also held importance in Vishnu temples. He emphasized that Karthika month, also known as Karthika Damodara, is a revered month for Lord Vishnu.

During this period, Mondays are observed as fasting days and evenings are dedicated to feeding Brahmins in the name of Karthika Damodara and Lord Siva.