The processional deity of Lord Govindaraja was taken on Hanumantha Vahanam and Gaja Vahanam in the morning and evening respectively on Thursday, the sixth day of the annual nine-day Brahmotsavams.

The grand procession was led by artistes performing Chekka Bhajana, Kolatam, with traditional music echoing through the streets. Devotees gathered around the deity to offer ‘harathi’ and chanted ‘Govinda Nama’ throughout the procession.

According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman symbolises unconditional servility and total surrender to the Master. With this procession, the Lord conveyed to the devotees the importance of unquestioned faith to get unlimited protection.

During ‘Gaja Vahanam’ in the evening, the processional deity was carried on a huge carrier resembling an elephant, which symbolises mightiness. According to scriptures, the procession on this carrier announces the Lord’s supremacy over the universe.

‘Prabandha Goshti’, the group of Sri Vaishnavite scholars reciting Nalayira Divyaprabandham (the 4000 Tamil verses collectively penned by the 12 Alwars) went ahead, while the Veda Parayana Goshti followed the procession.