Metro India News | tirupati

Gomata is revered as the embodiment of all deities in the Vedas and Puranas as narrated in Hindu religious scriptures and safeguarding them with the active participation of devotees shall be taken up in a big way, asserted TTD EO J Syamala Rao. As part of Sri Krishna Janmashtami (Gokulashtami) celebrations, the Go Puja Mahotsavam was held in a grand manner at Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanashala in Tirupati.

Speaking on the occasion the EO emphasized on protection of Cows, Cattle Shelter in Gosamrakshanashala currently shelters 2,789 animals—including 1,827 cows, 962 bulls, 7 elephants, and 5 horses, Daily Go Puja is performed at Tirumala, Tirupati, Tiruchanur goshalas, and the Sapta Go Pradakshina Mandiram at Alipiri, Milk, curd, butter, and ghee from the goshalas are used in Tirumala Srivari Temple rituals and sub-temples, as well as distributed to pilgrims, Annaprasadam centers, canteens, educational institutions, and hospitals.

Adding further he said through Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT), developed with Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, 47 superior Sahiwal calves have been produced. With devotees’ cooperation, 539 native cows have already been brought to the Gosamrakshanashala. Plans are underway to add another 500 indigenous breeds (Gir, Kankrej, Tharparkar, Red Sindhi) with public participation.

Under the “Gudiko Gomata” scheme, cows are sent to TTD sub-temples for daily Go Puja. So far, cows and calves have been distributed free of cost to 195 temples across the country. With an investment of Rs 12.25 crore, TTD has set up the SV Cattle Fodder Production Unit to ensure high-quality balanced feed for native breeds. A Committee of Gosala Experts advises on cattle health, nutrition, breeding, and welfare.

Earlier EO performed Gopuja and later devotional cultural programs including Annamacharya Sankeertanas, bhajans, kolatam, and Harikatha continued till evening. The event was presided over by Gosala Director  Srinivas. Tirupati MLA  Arani Srinivasulu, CV & SO  Muralikrishna, TTD Ex-officio Member  C. Divakar Reddy, officials, and a large number of devotees took part.