Venkateshvara Temple

Venkateshvara Temple
Religion
Affiliation	Hinduism
District	Tirupati
Deity	Venkateshvara (Vishnu)
Festivals	Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadashi, Ratha Saptami
Governing body	Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams
Location
Location	Tirupati
State	Andhra Pradesh
Country	India
Location in Andhra Pradesh
Geographic coordinates	13°40′59.7″N79°20′49.9″E / 13.683250°N 79.347194°E / 13.683250; 79.347194 Coordinates: 13°40′59.7″N79°20′49.9″E / 13.683250°N 79.347194°E / 13.683250; 79.347194
Architecture
Type	South Indian architecture
Creator	Veera Narasingadeva Krishnadevaraya Veera Rakshasa Krishnadevaraya Ranganatharaya [1]
Specifications
Temple(s)	1
Inscriptions	Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and Sanskrit [2]
Elevation	853 m (2,799 ft)
Website
www.tirumala.org

The Sri Venkateshvara Swami Temple is a Hindu temple situated in the hill town of Tirumala at Tirupati in Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The Temple is dedicated to Venkateshvara, a form of Vishnu, who is believed to have appeared on the earth to save mankind from trials and troubles of Kali Yuga . Hence the place has also got the name Kaliyuga Vaikuntha and the deity here is referred to as Kaliyuga Prathyaksha Daivam. The temple is also known by other names like Tirumala Temple, Tirupati Temple and Tirupati Balaji Temple. Venkateshvara is known by many other names: Balaji, Govinda, and Srinivasa. ^[3] The temple is run by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which is under control of Andhra Pradesh Government. The head of TTD is appointed by Andhra Pradesh Government.

Tirumala Hills are part of Seshachalam Hills range. The hills are 853 metres (2,799 ft) above sea level and comprise seven peaks, representing the seven heads of Adisesha. The temple lies on the seventh peak—Venkatadri, on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini, a holy water tank. Hence the temple is also referred to as "Temple of Seven Hills". ^[4] Tirumala town covers an area of about 10.33 sq mi (26.75 km²).

The Temple is constructed in South Indian architecture and is believed to be constructed over a period of time starting from 300 CE. ^[5] The Garbhagruha (Sanctum Sanctorum) is called Ananda Nilayam. The presiding deity, Venkateshvara, is in standing posture and faces east in Garbha Gruha. The temple follows Vaikhanasa Agama tradition of worship. The temple is one of the eight Vishnu Swayambhu Kshetras and is listed as the 75th Divya Desam. The Temple premises have two modern Queue complex buildings to manage the pilgrim crowd, Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasadam complex for free meals to Pilgrims, hair tonsure buildings and a number of pilgrim lodging sites.

It is one of the richest temples in the world in terms of donations received and wealth. ^{[6] [7] [8]}

There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the deity in Tirumala. According to one legend, the temple has a murti of Venkateshvara, it is believed, which shall remain here for the entire duration of the present Kali Yuga . ^{[9] [10] [11]}

Temple legend

Main article: Legend of Tirumala

During Dvapara Yuga , Adishesha resided on earth as Seshachalam Hills after losing a contest with Vayu. According to Puranas, Tirumala is regarded as Adivaraha Kshetra. After killing Hiranyaksha, Adivaraha resided on this hill. Venkatachala Mahatyam is the widely accepted legend over Tirumala Temple. ^[12]

During Kali Yuga , Narada advised some sages who were performing yagna to decide who could be given the fruits of yagna among Trimurtis (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva). Bhrigu was sent to test the Trinity. The sage who had an extra eye in the sole of his foot visited Brahma and Shiva and went unnoticed in both these locations. He cursed Brahma to be not worshipped and Shiva to be worshipped as a lingam. At last he visited Vishnu and the lord acts as if he had not noticed Bhrigu. Getting angered by this act, sage Bhrigu kicked Vishnu in the chest, to which Vishnu did not react and instead apologised to the Sage by massaging his feet. During this act, he squashed the extra eye that was present in the sole of Bhrigu's foot. However Lakshmi finds it as an insult since Vishnu's chest was considered as Lakshmi's residence (vakshasthala) and Bhrigu kicked it which indirectly insulted Lakshmi. She then left Vaikuntha and came to Earth to Kolhapur and started meditating. ^[12]

Vishnu bore human form as Srinivasa, left Vaikuntha, in search of Lakshmi, reached the Seshachalam hills in Tirumala and started meditating. Lakshmi learned of the condition of Srinivasa and called Shiva and Brahma. Shiva and Brahma then converted themselves into Cow and Calf and Lakshmi had handed over the cow and calf to Chola king ruling over Tirumala Hills at that time. The Cow would provide milk to Srinivasa daily while it was taken for grazing. One day, a cowherd saw this and tried to beat the Cow with his staff but Srinivasa had borne the injury. Getting angered by this Srinivasa had cursed the Chola king to become a Demon as dharma says sins committed by servants (shudras) should be borne by Kings. The king prayed for mercy after which Srinivasa said to him, that the King should take next birth as Akasharaja and should perform marriage of his daughter Padmavati with Srinivasa. ^[12]

Srinivasa went to his foster-mother Vakula Devi on Tirumala hills and stayed there for a while. After curse, Chola king took rebirth as Akasharaja and he had a daughter named Padmavati, who was born in the Padmapushkarini situated at present day Tiruchanur in Andhra Pradesh. Srinivasa married Padmavati at present day Narayanavanam in Andhra Pradesh and returned to Tirumala Hills. After few months, Goddess Lakshmi had discovered the marriage of Srinivasa with Padamavati and went to Tirumala hills to question Srinivasa. Srinivasa, unable to bear the quarrel between Lakshmi and Padmavati, turned into stone right when he was encountered by Lakshmi and Padmavathi. Brahma and Shiva appeared before the confused queens and explain the main purpose behind all this - The Lord's desire to be on the seven hills for the emancipation of mankind from the perpetual troubles of Kali Yuga. Goddesses Lakshmi and Padmavathi also turn into stone deities expressing their wish to be always there. Lakshmi stays with Him on His Chest on the left side while Padmavathi rests on His Chest's right side. ^[12]

History of the temple

Main article: History of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

Medieval history

The first recorded endowment was made by Pallava queen Samavai in the year 966 CE. She donated many jewels and two parcels of land (one 10 acres and other 13 acres) and ordered to use the revenues generated from that land for the celebration of major festivals in the temple. ^[13] The Pallava dynasty (9th century), the Chola dynasty (10th century), and Vijayanagara pradhans (14th and 15th centuries) were committed devotees of Venkateshvara. The temple gained most of its current wealth and size under the Vijayanagara Empire, present-day Karnataka state, with the donation of diamonds and gold. ^[14] In 16th century, Vijayanagara Emperor Krishnadevaraya was a frequent donor and visitor to the temple. His donations of gold and jewels enabled the Ananda Nilayam (inner shrine) roofing to be gilded. On 2 January 1517, Krishnadevaraya installed his own statue in the temple. ^[15]

After the decline of Vijayanagara Empire, rulers from states such as the Kingdom of Mysore and the Gadwal Samsthanam worshipped as pilgrims and donated ornaments and valuables to the temple.^{[ citation needed ]} Maratha general Raghoji I Bhonsle (died 1755) visited the temple and set up a permanent administration for the conduct of worship in the temple.^{[ citation needed ] [16]} Between 1320 CE and 1369 CE, idols of Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam were brought to this temple for safe keeping. ^{[15] [ better source needed ]}

Ramanujacharya's visits

In the 11th and 12th centuries, Ramanujacharya visited Tirupati thrice. On the first occasion, he spent a year with his uncle, Tirumalai Nambi, learning the esoteric meaning of Ramayana. His second visit was for settling a dispute that arose between the Saivites and Vaishnavites regarding the nature of the image set up in the Tirumala temple. ^[17] During the last visit, which was at an advanced old age of 102 years, the acharya installed the image of Govindaraja and laid the foundations of the present town of Tirupati. ^[14] Ramanuja streamlined the rituals at Tirumala temple according to Vaikanasa Agama tradition and introduced the recitation of Naalayira Divya Prabandham. He also set up Tirupati Jeeyar Mutt in 1119 AD in consultation with Tirumalai Ananthalwan to institutionalize service to the deity and supervise the temple rituals. The Jeeyars to this day ensures that the rituals ordained by Ramanuja are observed. ^{[18] [19] [20]}

Modern history

Swami Pushkarni of Tirumala

See also: Establishment and legislative setting of TTD

After the end of Vijayanagara Empire, the temple went into the hands of Golconda in July 1656 and then it was under the French for a short period of time and under Nawab of Carnatic till 1801 CE. With the advent of British during the early 19th century, the management of the temple passed to hands of East India Company, who accorded special status to temple and avoided interference in temple activities. ^[21] Madras government passed Regulation seven of 1817, which passed the temple to Board of Revenue through collector of North Arcot District. ^[21] In 1821, Mr. Bruce, the then East India company commissioner for Chittoor district, had drawn rules for the management of Temple which is referred to as Bruce's Code . ^[21] The 7th Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan donated ₹8,000 to the temple. ^[22]

In 1843, the East India Company transferred the Administration of Temple along with other Temples in Tirupati to Mahants of Hathiramji Muth, who acted as Vicaranakartas. It was under the rule of Mahants for six generations until 1933 when Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams was formed as a result of the TTD Act in 1933. ^[23] The Act of 1933 was superseded by Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Act of 1951. ^[24] Again in 1966, the temple was placed under direct control of Andhra pradesh State Endowments Department, with Andhra Pradesh Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments act. ^[24] In 1979, act of 1966 was rolled back with new Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams act, where temple administration was vested to a committee consisting of Executive officer, Chairman and two other members nominated by Government of Andhra Pradesh. ^[24] The temple is run by body Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) which is under control of Andhra Pradesh Government. The head of TTD is appointed by Andhra Pradesh Government. The revenue from this shrine is used by Andhra Pradesh government. ^{[25] [26]}

The temple bears as many as 640 inscriptions in Kannada, Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu languages. ^[27] There is a unique collection of about 3000 copper plates on which the Telugu Sankirtanas of Tallapaka Annamacharya and his descendants are inscribed. ^{[28] [29]} This collection forms a valuable source of material for a historical linguist in Telugu apart from its importance to musicologists. ^[29]

Temple administration

Main article: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is the trust board which oversees and manages the operations of Tirumala Venkateshvara Temple. It is operated by a board of trustees that has increased in size from five (1951) to eighteen (2015) ^[30] through the adoption of Acts. The daily operation and management of TTD is the responsibility of an executive officer, who is appointed by the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

The temple attracts approximately 75,000 pilgrims every day. ^[31] The annual budget, estimated at INR 2530.10 crores for the financial year 2015–16, ^[32] runs charitable trusts whose funds are derived from the budget and donations from the devotees. ^[33] The annual income is estimated at INR 10 billion in 2008. Most of its income is derived from the donations in SriVari Hundi. Devotees donate to the TTD, which runs into millions of rupees. TTD, the organisation running the welfare of the temple, runs various charitable trusts, whose funds are derived from the budget and donations from the devotees. ^[34]

See also: List of temples under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams

Architecture

Main article: Architecture of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

View of Facade of the temple

Tirumala Temple and Vaikuntam Queue Complex (semicircular building in the foreground) as seen from Srivari Padalu on Narayanagiri hill

Dvarams and Prakarams

There are three dvarams (entrances) which lead to the garbhagriha from outside. Mahadvaram, also known as padikavali, is the first entrance which is provided through Mahaprakaram (outer compound wall). A 50 feet, five storied Gopuram (Temple tower) is constructed over this Mahadvaram with seven kalasams at its apex. Vendivakili (Silver Entrance), also known as Nadimipadikavali, is the second entrance and is provided through Sampangi Prakaram (Inner compound wall). A three storied Gopuram is constructed over Vendivakili with seven Kalasams at its apex. Bangaruvakili (golden entrance) is the third entrance which leads into the garbhagriha . There are two tall copper images of the dvarapalakas Jaya-Vijaya on either side of this door. The thick wooden door is covered with gold gilt plates depicting the Dashavatara of Vishnu.

Pradakshinams

The circumambulation around the sanctum sanctorum in the temple or deities is called Pradakshinam. There are two circumbulation paths in the temple. The first one is area between the Mahaprakaram and the sampangiprakaram. This path known as Sampangipradakshinam has many Mandapas, a dvajasthambam, a bali pitha, kshetrapalika sila, and a prasadam distribution area. The Vimanapradakhinam is the second pradakshinam, which circumbulates the Ananda Nilayam Vimanam . This path has sub-shrines dedicted to Varadaraja and Yoga Narasimha, a potu (main kitchen), a bangaru bavi (golden well), an Ankurarpana Mandapam, a yagashala, Nanala (coins and Notla (Paper notes) Parkamani, Almyrah of Sandal paste (Chandanapu ara), a cell of records, Sannidhi Bhashyakarulu, a hundi, and the seat of Vishvaksena.

Anandanilayam vimanam and Garbhagriha

The garbhagriha is the sanctum sanctorum where the presiding deity Venkateshvara resides along with other small deities. The golden entrance leads to the garbhagriha. There are two more doors in between the bangaruvakili and the garbhagriha. The deity is in a standing posture with four hands in different postures - one in varada posture, one placed over thigh and other two holding the Panchajanya and the Sudarshana Chakra . The deity is decorated with precious ornaments. The deity bears the goddess Lakshmi on the right chest and the goddess Padmavati on the left. Pilgrims are not allowed to enter the garbhagriha (beyond Kulasekharapadi (path).

The Ananda Nilayam Vimanam is the main gopuram constructed over the garbhagriha. This is a three-storied gopuram and has single Kalasam at its apex. It is covered with gilt copper plates and covered with a golden vase. Depictions of several deities are carved over this gopuram. On this gopuram, there is a deity of Venkateshvara known as Vimana Venkateshvara, which is believed^{[ by whom? ]} to be exact replica of deity inside the garbhagriha. ^[35]

Deities in the temple

Main articles: Venkateswara, Tirumala Dhruva Bera, and Deities in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

Venkateshvara, an avatar of Vishnu is the presiding deity of the temple. It is believed that the Moolavirat is Swayambhu (self manifested). ^[36]

A replica of the Garbhagriha of the Venkateshvara Temple in Tirumala depicting Left - Sridevi and Bhudevi and Malayappa Swami, Center - deity Venkateshvara Main Deity (Dhruva beram), Center bottom - Bhoga Srinivasa, Right- Ugra Srinivasa, Koluvu Srinivasa, Sita and Lakshmana and Sri Rama, Sri Krishna, Rukmini

Pancha berams

As per Vaikhanasa Agamas, Venkateshvara is represented by five deities (berams) including the Moolavirat which are together referred to as Pancha beramulu (Pancha means five; Beram means Deity). ^[37] The five deities are Dhruva Beram (Moolavar), Kautuka Beram, Snapana Beram, Utsava Beram, Bali Beram. All the pancha berams are placed in the Garbha griha under Ananda Nilayam Vimanam. ^[37]

1. Moolavirat or Dhruva Beram - In the centre of Garbha griha, under the Ananda Nilayam Vimana, the Moolavirat of Venkateshvara is seen in standing posture on lotus base, with four arms, two holding Shanka and Chakra and one in Varada posture and other in Kati posture. This deity is considered the main source of energy for the temple and adorns with the Vaishnavite nama and jewels including vajra kiritam (diamond crown), Makarakundalas, Nagabharana, Makara Kanti, Saligrama haram, Lakshmi haram. ^[37] Venkateshvara's consort, Lakshmi stays on the chest of the Moolavirat as Vyuha Lakshmi.
2. Bhoga Srinivasa or Kautuka Beram -- This is a small one-foot (0.3 m) silver deity which was given to the temple in 614 AD by the Pallava Queen Samavai for conducting festivals. Bhoga Srinivasa is always placed near the left foot of Moolavirat and is always connected to the main deity by a holy Sambandha Kroocha.This deity receives many daily sevas(pleasures) on behalf of Moolavar and hence known as Bhoga Srinivasa(Telugu: Bhoga means Pleasure). This deity receives Ekanthaseva daily ^[38] and SahasraKalasabhisheka on Wednesdays.
3. Ugra Srinivasa or Snapana Beram - This deity represents the fearsome (Telugu: Ugra means angry) aspect of deity Venkateshvara. ^{[39] [40]} This deity was the main processional deity until 1330 CE when it was replaced by the Malayappa Swami deity. ^[37] Ugra Srinivasa remains inside the sanctum sanctorum and comes out on a procession only one day in a year: on Kaishika Dwadasi, before the sunrise. ^{[40] [39]} This deity receives daily abhishekam on behalf of Moolavirat, giving the name Snapana Beram(Sanskrit: Snapana means cleansing)
4. Malayappa Swami or Utsava Beram - Malayappa is the processional deity (Utsava beram) of the Temple and is always flanked by the deities of his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. This deity receives all festivals like Brahmotsavams, Kalyanotsavam, Dolotsavam, Vasanthotsavam, Sahasra deepalankarana seva, Padmavati parinyotsavams, pushpapallaki, Anivara asthanam, Ugadi asthanam etc.
5. Koluvu Srinivasa or Bali Beram- Koluvu Srinivasa represents Bali Beram. Koluvu Srinivasa is regarded as the guardian deity of the temple that presides over its financial and economic affairs. Daily Koluvu seva(Telugu: Koluvu means engaged in) is held in the morning, during which, the previous day's offerings, income, expenditures are notified to this deity, with a presentation of accounts. Panchanga sravanam also is held at the same time during which that particular days Tithi, sunrise and sunset time, nakshatra are notified to the Venkateshvara.

Other Murtis

Along with Pancha berams, the garbha griha also hosts the panchaloha deities of Sita, Rama, Lakshmana, Rukmini, Krishna, ^[38] Chakratalvar. The temple hosts the deities of Garuda (Vishnu's vehicle), Narasimha, Varadaraja, Kubera, Hanuman in their respective sub-shrines. The temple also host the deities of Shesha (Vishnu's serpent), Viswaksena, Sugriva, Ramanuja. Vimana Venkateshvara is the exact replica icon of Venkateshvara carved on the Ananda Nilayam Viamana's second tier north west corner. ^[37]

Worship

Puja

The temple follows Vaikhanasa Agama tradition of worship, ^[41] which is believed to be revealed by Sage Vikhanasa ^{[42] [43]} and is propagated by his disciples Atri, Bhrigu, Marichi, Kasyapa. ^{[42] [44]} Vaikhanasa is one of the principal traditions of Hinduism and primarily worships Vishnu (and his associated Avatars) as the Supreme God. This ancient texts recommends six times a day puja (worship) for Vishnu, of which minimum one puja is mandatory. ^[45] Rituals are classified as daily, weekly and periodical. The daily sevas in Temple (in order of occurrence) include Suprabhata Seva, Thomala Seva, Archana, Kalyanotsavam, Dolotsavam (Unjal Seva), Arjita Brahmotsavam, Arjita Vasantotsavam, Sahasra Dipalankarana Seva, Ekanta Seva. Weekly sevas of the Temple include Vishesha Pooja on Monday, Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana on Tuesday, Sahasra Kalasabhishekam on Wednesday, Tiruppavada Seva on Thursday, Abhishekam and Nijapada Darshanam on Friday. There are no weekly sevas on Saturday and Sunday. Periodical rituals include Jyesthabhishekam, Aaniwara Asthanam, Pavithrotsavam, Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam.

Naivedhyam

Main article: Naivedhya

Laddu offered to Venkateshvara at Venkateshvara Temple, Tirumala

The Tirupati Laddu is given at Tirumala Temple as prasadam. ^[46] Tirupati Laddu had got Geographical indication tag which entitles only Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams to make or sell it. ^{[47] [48]} Many other prasadams are also offered to Venkateshvara and they are classified as Anna-prasadams and Panyarams. ^[49] Annaprasadams include chakerapongal (sweet), Pulihora (tamarind rice), miryala pongal, kadambham, daddojanam (curd rice). ^[50] Panyarams include laddu, vada, Dosa, Appam, jilebi, muruku, poli, payasam. ^[50] Free meals are given daily to the pilgrims. On Thursdays, the Tiruppavada seva is conducted, where huge quantity of pulihora is offered to Venkateshvara by heaping up into a pyramidal shape in Tirummani mandapam (ghanta mandapam). ^[50]

Darshan

To manage the huge number of Devotees visiting the temple, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam constructed two Vaikuntam Queue Complexes: one in the year 1983 and the other in the year 2000. Vaikuntam Queue complexes have rooms where Devotees can sit and wait until their turn for Darshan. According to tradition, it is important for a devotee to have darshan of Bhuvaraha swamy temple lying on the northern banks of Swami Pushkarini before having Darshan of Venkateshvara in the main temple. ^[51]

Recently, the administration introduced a separate queue for pedestrian pilgrims. Free but limited number of biometric tokens are issued for the pilgrims to access this special queue. Tokens are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. The pilgrims can worship Venkateshvara on the allotted time slots issued in the token. There are two entry points for the foot-path pilgrims: Alipiri Mettu and Srivari Mettu. Alipiri Mettu is open round the clock, whereas Srivari Mettu is open from 6am - 6pm. ^[52]

See also: Vaikuntam Queue Complex

Hair tonsuring

Many devotees have their head tonsured as "Mokku", an offering to God. The daily amount of hair collected is over a ton. The hair is collected and is sold internationally creating a substantial profit for the temple. ^{[53] [54]} As per legend, when Venkateshvara was hit on his head by a cowherd, a small portion of his scalp became bald. This was noticed by Neela Devi, a Gandharva princess. Immediately, she cut a portion of her hair and, with her magic, implanted it on his scalp. ^[55] Venkateshvara noticed her sacrifice. As hair is a beautiful asset of the female form, he promised her that all his devotees who come to his abode would offer their hair to him, and she would be the recipient of all the hair received. Hence, it is believed that hair offered by the devotees is accepted by Neela Devi. The hill, Neeladri, one of the seven hills, is named after her.^{[ citation needed ]} Traditionally the barbers employed to do the tonsuring were male and from the Nayee caste and this caused some discrimination and failed to resolve the requests from women that they would like a female barber. ^[56] A protest led by Kagganapalli Radha Devi overturned the objections and temple agreed to appoint women barbers. Devi was recognised by Andhra Pradesh in 2017 and with an award of the Nari Shakti Puraskar by the President of India in 2019. ^[56]

Hundi (donation pot)

As per legend, it is believed that Srinivasa had to make arrangements for his wedding. Kubera credited money to Venkateswara (a form of the god Vishnu) for his marriage with Padmavathi. Srinivasa sought a loan of one crore and 11.4 million (11,400,000) coins of gold from Kubera and had Viswakarma, the divine architect, create heavenly surroundings in the Seshadri hills. Together, Srinivasa and Padmavathi lived for all eternity while Goddess Lakshmi, understanding the commitments of Vishnu, chose to live in his heart forever.^{[ citation needed ]} In remembrance of this, devotees go to Tirupati to donate money in Venkateshvara's hundi (donation pot) so that he can pay it back to Kubera. The hundi collections go as high as 22.5 million INR a day. ^{[6] [57]}

Thulabaram

In the Thulabaram ritual, a devotee sits on a pan of a weighing balance and the other pan is filled with materials greater than the weight of the devotee. Devotees usually offer sugar, jaggery, tulsi leaves, banana, gold, coins. This is mostly performed with newborn babies or children. ^[58]

Festivals

Main article: Srivari Brahmotsavam

Elephants marching during a festival at Tirumala

In the Venkateshvara Temple over 433 festivals are being observed in 365 days of a year suiting the title "Nitya Kalyanam Paccha Toranam" where every day is a festival. ^[59]

Sri Venkateshvara Brahmotsavams, a nine-day event, which is celebrated every year during month of October, is the major event of Venkateshvara Temple. During brahmotsavams the processional deity Malayappa along with his consorts SriDevi and BhuDevi, is taken in a procession in four mada streets around the temple on different vahanams. Vahanams include Dwajarohanam, Pedda Sesha Vahanam, Chinna Sesha Vahanam, Hamsa Vahanam, Simha Vahanam, Muthaypu pandiri Vahanam, Kalpavriksha Vahanam, Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam, Mohini Avataram, Garuda Vahanam, Hanumantha Vahanam, Swarna Rathotsavam (Golden Chariot), Gajavahanam, Rathotsavam (Chariot), Ashwa Vahanam, and Chakra Snanam. During Brahmotsavams, the temple will witness lakhs of devotees particularly on Garuda vahanam. Vaikunta Ekadasi, the day on which it is believed that Vaikunta Dwarams will be opened and the most important Vasihnavite festival, is celebrated with grandeur in Tirumala. The Tirumala Venkateshvara Temple will be flooded with devotees on a single day with numbers reaching up to 150,000, to have a darshan of Venkateshvara through special entrance which encircles inner sanctum called "Vaikunta Dwaram". ^{[60] [61]} Rathasapthami is another festival, celebrated during February, when Venkateshvara's processional deity (Malayappa) is taken in a procession around the temple on seven different vahanams starting from early morning to late night. ^[62] The other annual festivals include Rama Navami, Janmashtami, Ugadi, Teppotsavam (Float Festival), Sri Padmavati Parinayotsavams, Pushpa yagam, Pushpa pallaki, Vasanthotsavam (spring festival) conducted in March–April, were celebrated with great splendor.

Songs and hymns

Venkateshvara Suprabhatam is the first and pre-dawn seva performed to Venkateshvara at Sayana Mandapam inside sanctum sanctorum of Tirumala Temple. 'Suprabhatam' is a Sanskrit term which literally means 'Good Morning' and is meant to wake up the deity from His celestial sleep. ^{[63] [64]} Venkateshvara Suprabhatam hymns were composed by Prathivadhi Bhayankaram Annangaracharya during 13th century and consists of 70 slokas in four parts including Suprabhatam(29), Stotram(11), Prapatti(14) and Mangalasasanam(16). ^{[64] [63]} The thirteenth sloka of Venkateshvara Suprabhatam is as follows: ^[63]

Devanagari श्रीमन्नभीष्ट-वरदाखिललोक-बन्धो श्रीश्रीनिवास-जगदेकदयैकसिन्धो । श्रीदेवतागृहभुजान्तर-दिव्यमूर्ते श्रीवेङ्कटाचलपते तव सुप्रभातम् ॥

Telugu script శ్రీమన్నాభీష్ట -వరదఖిలలోక -బంధో శ్రీ శ్రీనివాస-జగదేకదయైకసింధో | శ్రీదేవతాగృహభుజాన్తర-దివ్యమూర్తే శ్రీవెంకటాచలపతే తవ సుప్రభాతం||

IAST śrīmannabhīṣṭavaradākhilalokabandho śrīśrīnivāsajagadekadayaikasindho । śrīdevatāgṛhabhujāntaradivyamūrte śrīveṅkaṭācalapate tava suprabhātam ॥

One with Lakshmi! One who grants boons! Friend of all the worlds! Abode of Sri Lakshmi! The matchless ocean of compassion! One having a charming form on account of the chest which is the abode of Sri Lakshmi! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee. ॥ 13 ॥

Tallapaka Annamacharya (Annamayya), the poet saint ^[65] of 14th century, one of the greatest Telugu poets and a great devotee of Venkateshvara, had sung 32000 songs in praise of Venkateshvara. ^{[66] [65]} All his songs which are in Telugu and Sanskrit, are referred to as Sankirtanas and are classified as Sringara Sankirtanalu and Adhyatma Sankirtanalu. ^[65]

The Seven Hills

The temple is located on seven hills. ^[67] The presiding deity is also referred to as Sapthagirisha ^[67] or Lord of Seven hills. ^[68] It is believed that seven hills, also referred to as Saptagiri, represent the seven hoods of Adisesha. The seven hills are as follows: ^[67]

A statue of Hanuman in prayer pose near Alipiri gate in Tirumala

• Vrushabhadri—Hill of Vrishabasura, who was killed by Srinivasa
• Anjanadri—Hill of Hanuman.
• Neeladri—Hill of Neela Devi
• Garudadri or Garudachalam—Hill of Garuda, the vahana of Vishnu
• Seshadri or Seshachalam—Hill of Sesha, the dasa of Vishnu
• Narayanadri—Hill of Narayana. Srivari Padalu (footprints of Venkateshvara) are located here
• Venkatadri—Hill of Venkateshvara

Subshrines

Varadaraja Temple

There is a small shrine dedicated to Varadaraja located in Vimana-pradakshinam, towards left of Vendivakili (silver entrance) while entering temple. ^[69] It is not known when this deity was installed. The stone deity ^[69] is sitting posture facing west.

Yoga Narasimha Temple

A shrine is dedicated to Narasimha in North-east corner of the Vimana-Pradakshina. ^[70] The shrine is said to have been built between 1330 A.D. – 1360 A.D.^{[ citation needed ]} The Yoga-Narasimha is seen sitting in cross-legged posture bound by yoga patta and holding Shankha and chakra in upper two hands and two lower hands in yoga mudra. ^[70]

Garuthmantha Temple

A small shrine dedicated to Garuda the vehicle of Venkateshvara is situated exactly opposite to the Bangaruvakili (Golden Entrance) of Jaya-Vijaya. This sub-shrine is part of Garudamandapam. The Garuthmantha deity is six feet tall and faces west looking towards Venkateshvara inside Garbhagriha.

Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple

Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple is the temple dedicated to Varaha an incarnation of Vishnu. This temple is believed to be older than Venkateshvara Temple. The temple lies on the Northern Banks of Swami Pushkarini. As per tradition, at first Naivedyam will be offered to Bhuvaraha Swamy before offering it to Venkateshvara in main Temple. And also as per tradition, devotees should have the darshan of Bhuvaraha swamy before Venkateshvara.

Bedi-Anjaneya Temple

Bedi-Anjaneya Temple is the sub-shrine dedicated to Hanuman. The temple lies exactly opposite to the Mahadwaram near Akhilandam (place where coconuts are offered). The deity in this temple has both of his hands handcuffed (Telugu Language:Bedilu).

Vakulamatha Sannidhi

Vakulamatha is the mother of Venkateshvara. There is statue dedicated to her in the main temple just ahead of Varadaraja shrine. The deity is in sitting posture. As per legend, she supervises the preparation of food that is to be offered to her son. For this reason a hole is made to the wall which separates Vakulamatha sannidhi and Srivari potu(Kitchen).

Kubera Sannidi

There is a sub-shrine dedicated to Kubera within the Vimanapradakshina. The deity lies to the right side of Garbhagriha and faces south towards preciding deity.

Ramanuja Shrine

The Shrine of Sri Ramanuja is located adjacent to the northern corridor of the Vimana Pradakshinam. It is also known as the Bhashyakara Sannidhi. The shrine was built around in the 13th century A.D.

Notable devotees

Ramanuja (1017–1137) ^[71] the most important Acharya of Sri Vaishnavism. ^[71] was responsible for managing the worshipping procedures and other affairs of the Venkateshvara temple. He is credited for gifting the holy conch and the discus, the weapons of Vishnu during his visit. So he is considered as 'Acharya'(Guru or teacher) to the himself. ^{[72] [73]} He established the Pedda Jeeyar Matam. He has a sannidhi(shrine) inside the temple which was built by Sri AnanthALwAn.

Statue of Pada-kavita Pitaamaha, Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya (or Annamayya) - official songmaster of the Tirumala Venkateshvara Temple

Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya (or Annamayya) (22 May 1408 – 4 April 1503) was the official songmaster of the Tirumala Venkateshvara Temple, and a Telugu composer who composed around 36000 keertanas, ^[74] many of which were in praise of Venkateshvara, the presiding deity of the temple.

Hathiram Bhavaji was a saint from Ayodhya who visited Tirumala around 1500 CE ^[75] on a pilgrimage and became a devotee of Venkateshvara. ^{[76] [77]}

Religious significance

The temple is considered one of the eight Swayambhu Kshetras of Vishnu where presiding deity is believed to have manifested on its own. Seven other temples in the line are Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple, Bhu Varaha Swamy temple, and Vanamamalai Perumal Temple in South India and Saligrama in Nepal, Naimisaranya, Pushkar and Badrinath Temple in North India. ^[78]

The temple is revered by Alvars in Divya Prabandham . The temple is classified as a Divyadesam , one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in these books. The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas. In these epics, Venkateshvara is described as the great bestower of boons. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the at Tirumala.

Nearby temples

Main article: List of Hindu temples in Tirupati

There are many ancient temples nearby Tirumala. Sri Padamavathi Temple is temple dedicated to Padmavathi, the wife of Venkateshvara, situated at Tiruchanur which is 5 km from Tirupati. Srikalahasteeswara Temple is the temple dedicated to Shiva which represents Vayu (air) form of elements of Nature, is situated at Srikalahasti which is 38 km from Tirupati. Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple, situated at Kanipakam town, is a 10th-century Temple dedicated to Vinayaka at 75 km from Tirupati. Other than these, temples like Govindaraja Temple, Kalyana Venkateshvara Temple(Srinivasa Mangapuram), Kodandarama Temple, Kapila Theertham are situated within the Tirupati city.

See also

• Balaji Temple, Ketkawla
• Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Yadadri
• Bruce's Code
• Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams

Notes

1. Rangarajan, A. D. (12 June 2020). "Yadavas hail restoration of 'Golla Mirasi". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 August 2020. Retrieved 12 June 2020.
2. Alexandra Mack. Spiritual Journey, Imperial City: Pilgrimage to the Temples of Vijayanagara. Vedams eBooks (P) Ltd, 2002 - Hindu pilgrims and pilgrimages - 227 pages. p. 80.
3. "Tirumala Temple". Archived from the original on 11 October 2007. Retrieved 13 September 2007.
4. Chandra, Subhash (19 May 2021). God vs Alien: (English Version). Subhash Chandra. p. 54.
5. "21 Unknown Facts about Tirupati Balaji Temple (Venkateswara Swamy)". 15 May 2022. Retrieved 15 May 2022.
6. Sudhir, Uma (13 September 2007). "Tirupati ousts Vatican, reigns at top". NDTV. Archived from the original on 22 September 2007. Retrieved 13 September 2007.
7. Sivaratnam, C (1964). An Outline of the Cultural History and Principles of Hinduism (1 ed.). Colombo: Stangard Printers. OCLC   12240260. Koneswaram temple. Tiru-Kona-malai is the sacred mountain of Kona or Koneser, Iswara or Siva. The date of building the original temple is given as 1580 BCE according to a Tamil poem by Kavi Raja Virothayan translated into English in 1831 by Simon Cassie Chitty ...
8. Ramachandran, Nirmala (2004). The Hindu legacy to Sri Lanka. Pannapitiya: Stamford Lake (Pvt.) Ltd. 2004. ISBN   9789558733974. OCLC   230674424. Portuguese writer De Queyroz compares Konesvaram to the famous Hindu temples in Rameswaram, Kanchipuram, Tirupatti-Tirumalai, Jagannath and Vaijayanthi and concludes that while these latter temples were well visited by the Hindus, the former had surpassed all the latter temples by the early 1600s
9. Shilpa (5 December 2018). "Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh". Bharat Temples. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
10. "Tirupati – Tirumala – Venkateswara the lord of the Kali Yuga". Dakshināvarta. 21 May 2020. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
11. Punjabi, Mona (21 April 2019). "Tirupati Balaji - History of Tirupati Balaji temple". The Times of India. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
12. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Temple Legend".
13. Feminism and World Religions 1999, p. 48. sfn error: no target: CITEREFFeminism_and_World_Religions1999 (help)
14. Dr. N.Ramesan (1981). The Tirumala Temple. Tirumala: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.
15. ttd, official site. "TTD Temple History". Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams. Temple website. Retrieved 15 December 2019.
16. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams: Temple History". Archived from the original on 12 April 2012. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
17. Sreenivasa Ayyangar, C. R (1908). The life and teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya. Madras: R. Venkateshwar. OCLC   30865934.
18. "Pontiffs Jeeyangars, the Ombudsman of Tirumala Temple rituals – TTD News". T. T. D. News. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
19. "Voice of a mighty philosophy". The Hindu. 25 March 2010. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
20. Narasimhan, T. A (16 June 2016). "He streamlined the rituals at Tirumala temple". The Hindu. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
21. V.K, Bhaskara Rao (1992). Organisational and Financial Management of Religious Institutions: With Special Reference to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Deep and Deep Publications. pp. 52, 53. ISBN   81-7100-441-5.
22. "A 'miser' who donated generously". thehindu. 19 February 2010. Archived from the original on 5 October 2020. Retrieved 19 October 2020.
23. Koutha, Nirmala Kumari (1 January 1998). History of the Hindu Religious Endowments in Andhra Pradesh. Northern Book Centre. p. 124. ISBN   81-7211-085-5.
24. Koutha, Nirmala Kumari (1 January 1998). History of the Hindu Religious Endowments in Andhra Pradesh. Northern Book Centre. p. 136. ISBN   81-7211-085-5.
25. "Andhra government eyes Tirupati wealth". The Sunday Guardian Live. 17 October 2020. Retrieved 22 August 2021.
26. Seshagiri, D M; Sinha, Saurabh (8 August 2021). "Andhra Pradesh government reappoints YV Subba Reddy as TTD Board Chairman". Zee News. Retrieved 30 July 2022.
27. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 8 December 2015. Retrieved 22 October 2015.
28. Ramakrishna, Lalita (2003). Musical heritage of India. ISBN   9788187226611 . Retrieved 23 September 2019.
29. International Journal of Dravidian Linguistics: IJDL., Volume 36. 2007. Retrieved 23 September 2019.
30. "New TTD Board Members to Take Oath on May 2" . Retrieved 31 July 2015.
31. Jatania, Prachi (2 November 2006). "Tirumala, the epicentre of faith". CNN-IBN. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
32. "TTD approves annual budget for the year 2015-16".
33. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams: Social Service" . Retrieved 15 July 2011.
34. "TTD-social service activities".
35. Sitapati, Pidatala (1968). Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of the Seven Hills, Tirupati. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. p. 107.
36. York, Michael (5 August 2015). Pagan Ethics: Paganism as a World Religion. ISBN   9783319189239 . Retrieved 24 September 2019.
37. Sri Venkateshwara. Shantha Nair. 7 January 2014. ISBN   9788184954456.
38. "Tiruppavai to replace Suprabhata Seva". times of india. 8 December 2016. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
39. "Much awaited Kaisika Dwadasi falls on November 11". times of india. 6 November 2016. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
40. "Fervour marks 'Kaisika Dwadasi' at Tirumala". The Hindu. 2 December 2016. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
41. Varadachary, T. (1999). Tirumala, the Panorama of Seven Hills . Retrieved 20 September 2019.
42. Singh, Nagendra Kr; Mishra, A. P. (2005). Encyclopaedia of Oriental Philosophy and Religion: Hinduism. ISBN   9788182200746 . Retrieved 20 September 2019.
43. Varadachary, T. (1999). Tirumala, the Panorama of Seven Hills . Retrieved 20 September 2019.
44. Diehl, Carl Gustav (1956). Instrument and Purpose: Studies on Rites and Rituals South India. Gleevup. Retrieved 20 September 2019. Sage Vikhanasa atri.
45. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Arjitha Sevas" . Retrieved 18 August 2015.
46. "Record sale of Tirupati laddoos". The Times of India. 7 May 2007.
47. Sivaraman, R. (3 March 2014). "Only TTD entitled to make or sell 'Tirupati laddu': High Court". The Hindu. Retrieved 23 June 2015.
48. "Now, Geographical Indication rights for 'Tirupati laddu'". Business Standard India. Business Standard. 28 February 2014. Retrieved 23 June 2015.
49. Srivari Brahmotsavam: A celestial spectacle on earth. 2013. Retrieved 23 September 2019.
50. The Crown Divine: Diamond Crown Souvenir, December 20, 1985. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. 1985. pp. 42, 43. Retrieved 23 September 2019.
51. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple".
52. Shukla, G. P (4 September 2013). "Early closure of Srivari Mettu footpath mooted". The Hindu. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
53. Saritha Rai (14 July 2004). "A Religious Tangle Over the Hair of Pious Hindus". The New York Times. Retrieved 26 April 2009.
54. "Tirupati Tirumala Temple: তিরুপতির এই মন্দির আপনাকে এনে দেবে জীবনের সব সুখ! বদলে দিতে এই সামান্য জিনিসটা". The Bengali Chronicle (in Bengali). 7 July 2022. Retrieved 10 August 2022.
55. Tarlo, Emma (6 October 2016). Entanglement: The Secret Lives of Hair. Simon and Schuster. p. 66. ISBN   978-1-78074-993-8.
56. @MinistryWCD (8 March 2019). "Ms. Kagganapalli Radha Devi - #NariShakti Puraskar 2018 Awardee in Individual category" (Tweet). Retrieved 7 January 2021– via Twitter.
57. "TTD again deposits 1,175 KG gold with SBI". The Times of India. PTI. 12 February 2011. Archived from the original on 5 November 2012. Retrieved 13 September 2007.
58. My Amazing Life: Journey through Success. Partridge Publishing Singapore. 2013. ISBN   9781482894905.
59. "Tirumala- The Paradise of Festivals" . Retrieved 7 June 2015.
60. Shukla, G. P. (January 2015). "Pilgrims throng Tirumala". The Hindu. Retrieved 21 June 2015.
61. "Pilgrims throng Tirumala". Deccan Herrald. January 2015. Retrieved 21 June 2015.
62. "Rathasapthami photos". Archived from the original on 27 October 2009.
63. V.K., Subramanian (1996). Sacred Songs of India, Volume 10. Abhinav publications. p. 59. ISBN   81-7017-444-9.
64. "Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Suprabhatam". Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. Retrieved 29 July 2015.
65. Poet Saints of India. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. 1996. ISBN   9788120718838.
66. 101 Mystics of India. Abhinav Publications. 2006. ISBN   9788170174714.
67. Srivari Brahmotsavam. The Hindu. 1975.
68. Encyclopaedia of Tourism Resources in India, Volume 2. Kalpaz publications. 2001. ISBN   9788178350189.
69. Naidu, Thalapaneni Subramanyam (1990). Growth and development of Tirumala-Tirupati as a dimension of Indian civilization. Anthropological Survey of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Dept. of Culture, Govt. of India. Retrieved 24 September 2019. Varadaraja.
70. Naidu, Thalapaneni Subramanyam (1990). Growth and development of Tirumala-Tirupati as a dimension of Indian civilization . Retrieved 24 September 2019.
71. von Dehsen, Christian D.; Harris, Scott L. (1999). Philosophers and Religious Leaders – Google Books. ISBN   9781573561525 . Retrieved 17 June 2013.
72. Siddharth Varadarajan. Srivari Brahmotsavam: A celestial spectacle on earth. Kasturi and Sons Ltd, 2013. p. 68.
73. S. D. S. Yadava. Followers of Krishna: Yadavas of India. Lancer Publishers, 2006 - Ahirs - 185 pages. p. 99.
74. "S. P. Sailaja keeps audience spellbound". The Hindu News. 28 February 2012. Retrieved 2 March 2013.
75. Shantha, Nair (2013). Sri Venkateswara: Lord Balaji and his holy abode of Thirupati. Mumbai: Jaico Publishing House. p. 12. ISBN   978-81-8495-445-6 . Retrieved 26 September 2016.
76. Ramachandra Pai, N. A. "Hathiram Baba". speakingtree.in. Speeking Tree. Retrieved 26 September 2016.
77. Team, panditbooking. "The Story of Lord Balaji's favorite devotee Hathiramji Baba and the name of Balaji to the Lord of Tirupati". spiritual.panditbooking.com. Panditbooking. Retrieved 26 September 2016.
78. S., Prabhu (10 May 2012). "Symbolising religious unity". The Hindu. Retrieved 13 October 2014.

References

• S. Krishnasvami Aiyangar (1939). A History of the Holy Shrine of Sri Venkatesa in Tirupati. Ananda Press, Madras.
• "Tirumala Temple History". Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. Retrieved 27 August 2015.
• "Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple". Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. Retrieved 27 August 2015.
• "Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple". Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. Retrieved 27 August 2015.
• Feminism and World Religions. SUNY Press. 1999. p. 48. ISBN   9780791440230.
• Neelima, P (22 September 2009). "Gold-coat-to-hide-Tirumala-carvings". The Times of India .

External links

• Veṅkaṭācala-māhātmya, Skanda Purana
• Official website