Shayanotsavam - Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

Shayanotsavam is a sacred nightly ritual performed in many Vishnu temples, most notably at Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Temple, where the Lord is ceremonially put to rest. The term "Shayanotsavam" comes from the Sanskrit words "Shayana" (sleep) and "Utsavam" (festival or ritual), meaning “the ritual of the Lord’s rest.” It takes place every evening as part of the temple’s daily activities and reflects deep devotion and care for the deity as a living presence. In this ritual, Lord Venkateswara is offered soft lullabies, rituals of relaxation, and symbolic offerings like milk or light refreshments, much like a royal bedtime ceremony. The deity is adorned in special attire and ornaments for the night, and soothing Vedic chants or lullabies are sung by priests. This seva symbolizes love, surrender, and the devotee’s intimate relationship with the divine. Witnessing Shayanotsavam is believed to bring peace of mind, restful sleep, and divine blessings.

Shayanotsavam Puja Vidhi is a nightly ritual that marks the ceremonial resting of Lord Venkateswara. The puja begins in the evening with the Sankalpam, where devotees mentally offer their presence and purpose. The deity is then gently adorned with soft silk garments and ornaments suitable for nighttime. Pushpa Archana (flower offering) and Mantra Pathanam (chanting of bedtime slokas) are performed by priests, often accompanied by gentle lullabies and Vedam chanting to create a peaceful atmosphere. The Lord is offered light food or milk as a symbolic night offering (naivedyam). A soft fan or chamaram is waved as part of the divine bedtime service. After the Mangala Aarti, the deity is symbolically laid to rest on a decorated cot inside the sanctum. The temple doors are then closed for the day. Participating in or witnessing Shayanotsavam is considered highly sacred and brings peace, protection, and restful blessings to devotees.