TTD to launch ‘Akshara Govindam’, ‘Annaprasana’ services at Vakula Matha temple on July 3

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has announced to offer ‘Akshara Govindam’ and ‘Annaprasana’ services from July 3, at the Sri Vakula Matha temple at Peruru on the outskirts of Tirupati.

According to mythology, Lord Venkateswara is considered the foster son of Vakula Matha, and as such the temple has become synonymous to care and compassion towards one’s wards.

Children in the 3-5 age group can participate in ‘Akshara Govindam’, under which service they will be initiated into the world of learning. The participating children will be given ‘prasadam’ and a complimentary ‘Akshara Govindam’ kit containing educational and devotional items.

The ‘Annaprasana’ ceremony, under which a child is offered solid food for the first time, will be a Vedic ritual, performed in a traditional manner under the guidance of temple priests.

After its formal launch on July 3, the services will be made available on all days from July 4 (except Tuesdays). Two batches of 25 children each (50 per day) will be allowed. Advance registration is mandatory one hour ahead of the ceremony at the temple. The TTD management has appealed to the devout to make use of these services.