Tirupati: TTD Executive Officer (EO) Sri J. Syamala Rao emphasized the importance of reviving Sanatana Hindu Dharma by protecting and worshiping Gomata (the sacred cow), as revered in the Vedas and Puranas. He made this appeal during the Gokulashtami Gopuja festival held at the TTD-run Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Sala in Tirupati on Tuesday.
In his address, the EO highlighted the pivotal role of cows in Hindu Dharma, noting that worshiping Gomata is believed to promote agricultural prosperity in the country. He added that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has facilitated the provision of jaggery, rice, and fodder for devotees to feed the sacred cows at the Goshala.
Tirupati MLA Sri Bhumana Karunakar Reddy also spoke on the occasion, reiterating the significance of Gomata worship for the nation’s agricultural prosperity. He called upon the TTD to spearhead the Gopuja campaign, encouraging widespread participation.
Earlier in the day, the EO performed rituals for Gomata and Sri Venugopala Swamy, marking the spiritual significance of the event. The festival also featured a series of religious and cultural activities, including special Abhishekam (ritual bathing), Venuganam (flute recital), Veda Pathanam (recitation of Vedic hymns), bhajans, Kolata (traditional dance), and Annamacharya sankeertanas.
Cultural programs presented by students from Sri Padmavathi Women’s Degree and PG College (SPWDPG) and a Harikatha performance by artists from the Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad (HDPP) captivated the attending devotees.
