In the early hours of Tuesday, the sacred Vaikuntha Dwaram at Tirumala temple around the inner sanctum of Lord Venkateswara was opened on the eve of Vaikuntha Ekadasi. After special pujas following Agamic traditions, the doors were unlocked at the auspicious time. The temple echoed with chants of “Govinda Govinda” as devotees offered deep prayers and reverence. Mythology says pilgrims passing through the Vaikuntha Dwaram on Ekadasi are cleansed of sins and blessed with salvation. Devotees moved quietly and respectfully through the passage, seeking spiritual blessings after worshipping the deity. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) arranged everything to make darshan smooth and hassle-free. A grand Golden Chariot procession added to the festive mood, with processional deities carried majestically along the temple streets. The shrine was beautifully decorated with rich flowers. TTD Chairman B. R. Naidu told the media that all necessary precautions were taken so devotees would face no inconvenience. Executive Officer Anilkumar Singhal said common pilgrims were given priority. He also clarified that devotees without tokens could get darshan via Sarva Darshan queues from January 2 to 8. Vaikuntha Dwadasi rituals will continue with Chakrasnanam at the temple tank Pushkarini early Wednesday. Arjitha sevas will stay cancelled for the second day in a row.