Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas in Allen holds a free public celebration Saturday, Oct. 24, marking the divine wedding of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavathi in a ceremony called Sri Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam.
The event at 1450 North Watters Road is open to all and includes free parking and Maha Prasadam, a communal sacred meal, according to the temple's blog.
What the ceremony involves
Sri Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam reenacts the divine wedding through Vedic chants, sacred offerings and traditional wedding rites. Lord Venkateswara is a revered form of Lord Vishnu worshipped by millions of Hindu devotees worldwide.
The day's program begins with Suprabhatam, devotional prayers to awaken and glorify the deity, followed by Tomala Seva, the offering of flower garlands.
The central ritual is Sri Srinivasa Kalyanam, the wedding ceremony itself, which includes the exchange of garlands and the tying of the mangalsutra.
Additional elements include Sri Venkateswara Archana, a worship service of chanted prayers and offerings, and Mangala Aarti, in which a sacred flame is offered to the deity. Sarva Darshanam gives attendees a chance to view the deity and offer personal prayers. Devotional kirtans round out the celebration.
Practical details
The temple recommends traditional Indian attire. For men, that means a dhoti or pajama, lanchi and kanduva. For women, a saree, half saree or chudidar with dupatta.
Specific start times for each portion of the program were not listed on the temple's blog post. The temple directs visitors to its official event page for the latest schedule.
Devotees who wish to contribute can choose from several seva (service) sponsorship levels. Options range from $101 for flowers and garlands to $1,116 for a group Kalyanam sponsorship, with other tiers at $116, $251 and $301.
Also Saturday in Allen
The City of Allen lists a Haunted Campout at Molsen Farm on Saturday, Oct. 24, according to the city's autumn events guide. Registration runs $12 for members and $17 for non-members.
Sri Srinivasa Kalyanotsavam takes place at Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, 1450 North Watters Road, Allen, TX 75013.
