Garuda Seva is a significant religious festival celebrated in many Vishnu temples across Tamil Nadu, particularly during the Brahmotsava (annual temple festival). It is especially prominent in the 108 Divya Desams, the sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu revered by the Alvar saints.
What Is Garuda Seva?
Garuda Seva involves a grand procession where the deity of Lord Vishnu is carried on Garuda, his divine mount. This ritual is a central event during the Brahmotsava festival, symbolizing the deity’s journey to bless his devotees. The procession typically takes place during the night, with devotees lining the streets to offer prayers and receive blessings.
Notable Garuda Seva Celebrations in Tamil Nadu
- Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram: One of the most renowned Garuda Seva events occurs here on the third day of the Vaikasi Brahmotsava festival. Thousands of devotees gather to witness Lord Varadaraja Perumal’s procession on Garuda .
- Thirunangur Temples: During the Thirumangai Alvar Mangalasasana Utsavam in the Tamil month of Thai (January–February), the festival images from 11 Thirunangur Divya Desams are brought on Garuda mounts to Thirunangur, accompanied by the recitation of hymns by Thirumangai Alvar .
- Nachiyar Koil Temple: Celebrated during the Tamil month of Panguni (March–April), this temple hosts a unique Garuda Seva where the deity is carried on a stone Garuda mount, believed to increase in weight as it is carried in procession.
- Thanjai Mamani Koil, Thanjavur: In the Tamil month of Vaikasi, this temple organizes a Garuda Seva involving 18 Garuda processions from various temples, attracting a large number of devotees .
Cultural and Religious Significance
Garuda Seva is more than a mere procession; it is a spiritual event that fosters community participation, devotion, and cultural heritage. Devotees prepare their homes with kolams (decorative patterns), offer prayers, and participate in the procession, creating a vibrant and devotional atmosphere. The event underscores the deep-rooted traditions of Vaishnavism in Tamil Nadu and the enduring devotion to Lord Vishnu.
If you’re interested in experiencing Garuda Seva, planning a visit to one of these temples during the festival period would offer a profound insight into Tamil Nadu’s rich religious and cultural tapestry.