On the morning
of the third day, the deities are carried on the Simhavahana.
Simha (lion) is a symbol
of regality and power. According to the Bhagvad Gita,
the Lord is the Simha among animals (mriganamcha
mrigandroham). The Lord is also called Hari (which
in turn means Simha) and Hari sits on Simha. In other
words, we have the phenomenon of the Lord sitting on
Himself.
It is also believed that the Lord
assumed the form of Narasimha (half man and half lion)
to kill the demon Hiranyakasipu. Therefore, Lord Venkateswara
uses the Simha as his vehicle on the third day of Brahmotsavam.
In the night, Unjal Seva is conducted.
The deities then ride in the Mutayalapandiri Vahana,
which is decorated with a pearl canopy. Mutyam (pearl)
is a symbol of purity and royalty.
