1. About the Campaign

This campaign supports the preservation of the centuries-old Tirumala ceremonial umbrella tradition. The sacred umbrellas offered during the Tirumala Brahmotsavam are prepared at the Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple in Chennai’s Sowcarpet and carried by devotees on foot to Tirumala over a ten-day yatra.

2. The Problem and the Solution

Traditional temple customs depend upon specialised artisans, spiritual institutions, volunteers, and devotees for their continuation. As awareness of their history and significance declines, such traditions can face challenges related to funding, participation, documentation, and transmission to younger generations.

Under the guidance of Mannargudi Sri Chendalankara Sampath Kumara Jeeyar, head of the Mannargudi Sri Vaishnava Math, the initiative continues this sacred offering while creating greater awareness about its spiritual meaning.

Campaign funds will help support:

• Crafting and decoration of ceremonial umbrellas
• Materials required for their traditional preparation
• Food, accommodation, and essential support for yatris
• Transportation and logistical arrangements
• Rituals associated with the departure and offering
• Documentation and public awareness about the tradition
• Engagement of younger devotees and volunteers

3. Expected Impact and Beneficiaries

The campaign will help preserve a living Sri Vaishnava tradition associated with the Tirumala Brahmotsavam and ensure its continued observance for future generations.

The beneficiaries will include:

• Traditional umbrella artisans
• Devotees participating in the ten-day yatra
• Priests, volunteers, and Sri Vaishnava institutions
• Pilgrims attending the Tirumala Brahmotsavam
• Young people learning about temple traditions
• Future generations inheriting this sacred cultural legacy

4. Geographic Area

• Starting point: Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple, Sowcarpet
• City: Chennai
• State of origin: Tamil Nadu
• Destination: Tirumala
• District: Tirupati
• Destination state: Andhra Pradesh
• Journey duration: Approximately 10 days on foot