SO urges barbers to serve pilgrims during Brahmotsavams

Tirumala: TTD Tirumala Special Officer A V Dharma Reddy on Tuesday urged barbers of Kalyanakatta to render honest services to pilgrims who visit Tirumala in great numbers during the ensuing annual Brahmotsavams.

Addressing over 1,000 barbers in Asthana mandapam at Tirumala, the Special Officer said the annual event will commence on September 30 and conclude on October 8. "As the Tamil Puratasi month has already commenced, pilgrim influx this year will be more than the normal. "Hence I urge you all to offer dedicated services to the pilgrims without abstaining from your duties," he added.

Later he interacted with the barbers and promised to solve their problems one after another in a phased manner after annual Brahmotsavams. The barbers also promised to give their best possible services to the pilgrims during the annual fete. He instructed DyEO and AEO to ensure that there is no shortage of blades, sandal tablets, anti-septic lotion etc.at all the Kalyanakattas.

Most of the devotees visiting Tirumala for darshan follow the century-old practice of offering their hair to Lord as fulfilment of their vows. On an average daily 25,000 men and women offer hair, and the number will go up to 40,000 during holidays and festival occasions.

As a preparatory exercise for the smooth conduct of Brahmotsavam, the Special Officer addressed the Kalyanakatta staff.Earlier, DyEO KKC Nagaratna made an introductory speech while the closing remarks were made by Jagnmohanachari, the AEO of Kalyana Katta.