Tirupati Balaji Tirupati Balaji

The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of the Tirupati Hill, and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini.It is by the Lord's presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills.




Tirupati Tirumala Balaji TempleThe temple of Sri Venkateswara has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. The Sastras, Puranas, Sthala Mahatyams and Alwar hymns unequivocally declare that, in the Kali Yuga, one can attain mukti, only by worshipping Venkata Nayaka or Sri Venkateswara.

The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas. In these epics, Sri Venkateswara is described as the great bestowed of boons. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the Lord at Tirumala.

History
There is ample literary and epigraphic testimony to the antiquity of the temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara. All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th - 15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord and they competed with one another in endowing the temple with rich offerings and contributions.

It was during the rule of the Vijayanagar dynasty that the contributions to the temple increased. Sri Krishnadevaraya had statues of himself and his consorts installed at the portals of the temple, and these statues can be seen to this day. There is also a statue of Venkatapati Raya in the main temple.

Temple Legends
Sri Venkatachala Mahatmya is referred to in several Puranas, of which the most important are the Varaha Purana and the Bhavishyottara Purana. The printed work contains extracts from the Varaha Purana, Padma Purana, Garuda Purana, Brahmanda Purana, Markandeya Purana, Harivamsa, Vamana Purana, Brahma Purana, Brahmottara Purana, Aditya Purana, Skanda Purana and Bhavishyottara Purana. Most of these extracts describe the sanctity and antiquity of the hills around Tirumala and the numerous teerthams situated on them.

The legends taken from the Venkatachala Mahatmya and the Varaha Purana, pertaining to the manifestation of the Lord at Tirumala, are of particular interest.

According to the Varaha Purana, Adi Varaha manifested Himself on the western bank of the Swami Pushkarini, while Vishnu in the form of Venkateswara came to reside on the southern bank of the Swami Pushkarini

Govinda Hari Govinda

Govinda Hari Govinda. Govinda Hari Govinda is the Bhajan Song of Lord Vishnu or Venkateswara. This is a slight variation of the Venkateswara Govinda Namavali devotional song of Mahavishnu by repeating "Govinda Hari Govinda Venkataramana Govinda" a few more times after each stanza. The beautiful devotional song was chanted by Tirupati Thirumala Devastanam Singers (TTD Singers).

Hare Krishna Kirtan by Radhanath Swami - Tirupati 31-01-2007

HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj leads an ecstatic kirtan during abhisheka at the Inauguration Festival of the new ISKCON temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, South India

Tirupathi Balaji Temple

This temple is one of the most important Vishnu temples in India and is also the richest. It is the most visited temple in India and is one of the most visited religious places in the world. This magnificent temple is located 20km up a hill from Tirupati. It is a very peaceful place and coming to this temple is a very awe-inspiring and devotional experience. On a spiritual tour of South India it is an absolute must. On an average over 25,000 people visit daily, and on festival days over 100,000 visit. In 1989, over eleven and a half million people made their pilgrimage here.

The historic and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hill. The temple of Sri Venkateswara fondly known as Balaji temple has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Tirupathi Balaji are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas. In these epics, Sri Venkateswara is described as the great bestower of boons. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the Lord at Tirumala.

According to the tradition this temple has a self manifested idol of Vishnu and it is believed that Vishnu will reside on earth for the entire kaliyugam on tirumala hills. For this reason it attracts Hindus from across the world and is the most visited religious place in the world.All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram, the Cholas of Thanjavur, the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th - 15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord. It was during the rule of the Vijayanagar dynasty that the contributions to the temple increased.

Sri Krishnadevaraya had statues of himself and his consorts installed at the portals of the temple, and these statues can be seen to this day.Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is an independent trust which manages the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple now. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam was established in 1932 as a result of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Act of 1932. According to the act, administration of the temple was vested to a committee of seven members and overseen by a paid commissioner as appointed by the Madras Government.The temple is the world's richest in terms of the wealth of offerings and gifts given by visiting pilgrims. On average around 60,000 pilgrims per day visit the temple, and on special occasions up to 3,00,000 per day.

Lord Balaji at Tirumala Tirupati

Lord Venkateswara - Tirupati Balaji

he idol of Lord Vishnu, just to have a glimpse of whom people from different parts of India ...different parts of the world rushes to come and stand in queue for hours after hours is Tirupati Venkateswara.

Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati is believed as the last incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is in the southern Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, 130 kms from the Chennai (Madras), on Tirumala hills from where Lord Venkateswara - popularly known as Balaji - showering his eternal blessing and kindness to the mankind. He is believed to be the one of the manifestation of Lord Vishnu.

The Tirumala Tirupati temple of Lord Venkateswara Balaji in Andhra Pradesh attracts millions of visitors every year. The deity is Extremely Lively and people keeps on standing hours after hours on the queue for offering pooja. This is one of the common belief in the mind of people that whatever you will give to Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati in the name of Puja, God will return you several multiple of that.

Lord Venkateswara - Tirupati Balaji

Tirupati/Tirumala is a pilgrimage center of great significance and is visited by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.Venkateswara, or Srinivasa or Balaji as the presiding deity Vishnu is known, is enshrined in this temple, located on a range of the Eastern Ghats, called the Seven Hills.

It is an ancient temple and its glory has been sung by the saints of the yesteryears. Said to be the richest temple in India, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries. It attracts pilgrims from all over the country and it is not unusual for pilgrims to stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.

TTD, or Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam manages the affairs of the temple, the well being of the pilgrims, the upkeep of the environs in and around the Tirumala hills and sponsors several undertakings that are religious, charitable, social and educational in nature. References to Tiruvenkatam abound in early Tamil literature(Tolkappiam and Silappadikaram) .

Explicit reference to the Lord of Tiruvenkatam is found in the works of the early Tamil Saint Poets Poigai Alwar, Bhuthathu Alwar and Pay Alwar as well as in the poems of the later Alwars. The great religious leader Ramanuja Acharya is said to have visited here in the 11th - 12th century AD. References to Venkatachalam are also found in several of the Puranas. Tirumalai constitutes one of the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divya Desams - sacred shrines in the Sri Vaishnavite tradition.

Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire is said to have visited this temple 7 times. An image of his is also found in the temple. The Venkatesa Itihasa Mala and the Varaha Purana contain several legends connected with Tirumalai.

Lord Venkateswara (balaji), most sought after God!!

Lord venkateswara has taken loan from the god of riches kubera so much money for his marriage and pledged that he would be paying off the interest on the loan from the collections of tirupati temple. So, if you pray to Him that you will offer some portion of the money from the doubtful deal , you may get it in such a way that it was possible only through his help and grace. So the devotee , who got such a benefit come and secretly drops millions of money in the donation box. This became a regular feature which became common to common man. But, we have to analyze and learn some thing from this. Though religious gurus say this is not possible, Lord venkateswara, or Tirupathi balaji likes to help his devotees in their business deals . This is possible only through the form of Lord venkateswara of Tirupathi and he is pleased when they visit Him and pay off his portion. No body can command God to be like this way or that way. We have to observe what is happening around and learn about His ways.This balaji temple is in Tirupathi, andhra pradesh, India. It is Vatican city of Hindu religion.

source : www.geocities.com/gvsgopalarao/tirupathi/graceofvenkateswara.html

Tirupati Pilgrimage Yatra

Tirupati town is located in the southern portion of Andhra Pradesh. The most important place of interest at the place is the historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills, who is famous all over the country.

The Tirupati Balaji shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam with an elevation of 2,800ft above the sea level. Known as the richest temple in the world, it is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history. It attracts pilgrims from all over the country who have to wait for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds. The temple with its tower is a fine example of Dravidian architecture.

The temple of Tirupati Balaji in south India is one of the most revered and sacred shrines in the country. Millions of devotees visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu, who is the patron deity of the temple. The peaceful environs of the temple make the place look more beautiful.

The temple complex is large and spacious, surrounded by the Tirumalai range. The stone Gopuram appears different with celestial figures and statues. Inside, the pillars, doorways, and the Vimana of the main shrine are plated with gold. Besides this it is a massive rectangular bathing ghat, enclosed on all four sides by stone steps leading down to the water. A wide street runs around the entire complex.

Sri Venkateshwara temple, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, also known as Balaji in the north and Srinivasa in southern parts of India, is one of the most famous temples in India and is located at Tirumala. Apart from the Lord Venkateswara temple, the other important places at Tirumala are Papavinasam and Akasaganga waterfalls.

source : www.southindiatourshub.com

Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji

Tirupati is one of the greatest Hindu pilgrimage centres in India. Although popularly known as Tirupati, the real name is Tirumala- Tirupati-Devasthanam. Every year Hindu pilgrims from India and abrod visit this centre. Devotees believe that their desire will be fulfilled by the grace of god. Although itis located in the Southern Andhra Pradesh, it is better to go to Tirupati via Chennai. Tirupati has regular air,road & railway link with Chennai, even one may availpackaged tour to Tirupati from Chennai & return on the same day.

During Satyayug (according to hindu mythology, 4 ages-Satya, Treta, Drapar & Kaliyuga) the place was called Rishavadri, in Treta Anjanachal, in Dwapar Sheshachal & in Kaliyuga Venkatagiri, Le, the cluster of 7 hills in Chittur district, known as Sheshachal or Venkatachal. Legend says that these 7 hills are the heads of Snake God Adidesha, who is used as the bed of Lord Vishnu. Tirumalai is one of these 7 hills. On top of the hill is Balaji Temple shaded by mango and sandal trees. The area of the town surrounding the temple is 4 Sq km and the altitude is 860 m. Surroundings are covered by hill of red stone. Railway station and bus terminus are very close to each other in Tirupati East. Adjoining is the TIO Bus Stand & buses are available round the clock. The buses leave along 4 km plain road and 18 km hilly road for the temple on top of the hill. A ticket is valid for 3 days, inclusive of return journey available in TIO buses. Share jeeps & taxis are also available for journey to the temple. It is a hilly road, there are frequent sharp curves and 57 hair pin bends. There is another road used by pilgrimS on foot. The road starts from Alipodi 4 km to the north of bus stand or rly stn and entire stretch that leads to the temple at the top is shaded. Autos & buses ply between bus stand, rly stn to AlipidL Luggage rooms are available for keeping the luggage of passengers. Many pilgrims however reach temple on foot covering a hilly road of 14.5 km in order to earn blessings of god. There are two temples on walking route namely Nrisingha Temple & Ramanujacharya Temple. Hearsay is that without offering puja at Nrisingha Temple, Tirupati darshan is incomplete.

In Telugu Tiru means Lakshmi, Tirupati meaning Lakshmi's Pati or Husband, who is Vishnu or Balaji. The dual image of Shiv a & Vishnu is Balaji, i.e, Lord Venketswara to whom this temple is dedicated. It is a very old temple. There are three boundariesimmediately after the entrance, the I st is Sampangi, the 2nd is Vimana & the 3rd is Baikuntha Pradakhsin, Le, going round the main temple and then final entrance. The custom is that one has to make holy dip in the adjoining Venkateswar Kund or Swami Pushkarini before offering puja to the deity. According to the myth, this Sarovar of Lord Vishnu was imported to the earth by Narada, the bard of heaven. It is the richest temple in India courtesy contribution made by past kings and royals. Its wealth is renowned in the world. The annual income is Rs 5 lakh crores. According to popular belief that deity Lord Venkateswara in order to meet his wedding expenses borrowed money from Kuber, the banker of the heaven-the debt remains unpaid, even today. Hence the devotees donate as per tradition so that the loan is repaid. However various social and educational activities are performed with the help of the wealth that is generated here. There are 13000 employees on the payroll of Temple committee.

There are different kinds of worshipping tystem. The system was devised by Ramanujacharya. No body can stop before the deity, one has to simultaneously move in order to have darshan. The system is to offer Pranami or Puja offemings in a dol or' handi'. Suprabhat Darshanam costs Rs 120 (2-30 hrs), at Rs 220 Thomaleseva (3-30 hrs), at Rs 220 Archana, (4-30 hrs). Special darshans are organised at a costofRs 1000 (2 person) Rs 1500 (3 persons), Rs 2500 (5 persons). It seems, money power matters even at the place of the creator as rich devotees are privilaged to have a private darshan of the deity. Annaprasad is offered to the worshippers. One can buy separately the prasad. One however may buy tasteful prasad of Iaddus

The Garvagriha is wrapped by 100 kg gold and 2 m high, four handed deity of Balaji of black-stone standing on a lotus. The two rear hands hold a conch shell and a chakra or wheel. One in front symbolises reassurance & other remains at waist. The deity's entire body is covered with golden jewellary and precious stones. Kings & Sultans would have envied the god as the possess wealth more than any emperor, thanks to this rich devouts. In 1984 the crown or the I boira kritam was specially made at a cost of Rs 5 crore. The crown is made of 12 kg of gold and a thousand pIeces of diamonds.

Every Thursday the deity is dressed new flowers. Even the eyes are not visible-Only the feet and face are visible. The two wives of the Lord, Sree Devi and Bhu Devi are also placed in the temple. The latest attraction of the temple is a golden chariot (21 ft) built in 1955 at a cost of Rs 2.5 crore made of 780.7 kg of copper wrapped with 29.922 kg of gold. During Navaratri in October Lord Balaji rides this chariot. Annaprasad is available against coupon in the dinning hall. The temple is reserved for the Hindus only. Special permission is given to Christians for darshan. The temple is open between 3 to 21-00, shops are however open for 24 hours in Thirumalai.

The mandap or the meeting hall on thousand stone pillars is also beautiful. 247 ft high Gopuram (gateway) of the temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. Of late, the height has been further increased. On the spire, the vimana wrapped in gold is called Ananda Nilayam. The gold wrapped Dhajwa stambha (Flag post), Le, a palm tree along-with King of Vijay ana gar, Krishna Deva Roya and his queen is also found in the temple. The decoration of the temple is unique. In the temple, the images of kings & emperors in copper and stone are also found. The little museum opposite to the temple is also an attraction. On an average 20000 devotees visit the temple everyday. On special occasions the number exceeds 100000. Visitors wait in the queue for hours together for the darshan of Deity. Special arrangement for dar.fhan is also avilable against a ticket of Rs 30 since early in the morning. This can avoid the long wait in the queue. If, however, one donates Rs 5 lakh then he along with his family are entitled to be there for 5 years and enjoy darfhan. During annual festival in September, pilgrims from far off places arrive here. Similarly during holidays the queue becomes longer. On Friday is Abhifhekalli festival. Special Darshan resumes after 10-00.There is also the tradition of offering the hair to the deity after shaving head at Kalyan Ghat.

source : www.tirupatihotels.net

Tirupati Balaji Brahmotsavam

India's most sacred and ancient temples - the Tirupati/Tirumala Venkateswara temple - during the biggest festival of the year, the holy Brahmotsavam. See the nine days procession, with the temple deity being carried throughout the holy city on his various golden vahanas accompanied by hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic devotees.

Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji

Tirupati Balaji is accredited for being the most visited pilgrimages centers in India. It is located at the distance of 67 km away from Chittoor in Chittoor district of southern Andhra Pradesh and 170 km north east of Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara or Vishnu, visited by thousands of pilgrims through out the year. The word 'Tirupati' is derived on the name of the village located on the Venkata Hill means 'the Lord of Lakshmi'. With its many shrines and numerous dharamshalas the whole are surrounding the Tirumala Hill offers a fascinating insight of the contemporary Hinduism practiced on the large scale in India.

Dayasindhu The White Spot On The Lords Chin

The white spot on the chin of the Lord will remind us of Sri Ananthazhwar, a disciple of Sri Ramanuja. As a part of maintenance of a garden in the service of the Lord, Ananthazhwar was digging up earth, assisted by his pregnant wife. She got tired.

The compassionate Lord could not contain himself. He assumed the form of a lad and assisted her in her service.

But Ananthazhwar did not like the intrusion and hit Him on His chin with the spade. The lad simply disappeared. Later when Ananthazhwar went to the Temple to worship, he found the Lord bleeding on His chin.

Ananthazhwar realised his mistake and profusely apologised to the Lord and applied "Pacha Karpuram" (camphor balming) with fond love. The Lord pardoned Ananthazhwar and said He would sport the Pacha Karpuram for ever in remembrance of Ananthazhwar's love and devotion.

Sri Kulasekharazhvvar in his enchanting poetry expressed his desire to be born and reborn only in Tirumala.

"Whatever the form! Howsoever mean! Be it a fish or bush! Shrub or stone!" His only wish is to be associated forever with Tirumala and the Bhaktas. His love for the Lord culminates into passion.

The Lord sanctioned his wish. The gold plated step in the Garbhagriha in Tirumala Temple is named "Kulasekharapadi". Kulasekharazhwar is remembered forever.

In Kaliyuga, it is said, singing the praise of the Lord is the easiest means to obtain His grace. Lord Srinivasa has been the central theme for many a saint-minstrel. The Alwars were the earliest to be inspired by Lord Balaji. Portions of the Naalayira Divya Prabandham comprising the songs of the Alwars are sung everyday in the presence of the Lord.

The Prabandhams and the outpouring divine grace of Sri Balaji inspired Tallapaka Annamacharya to sing His glories in Telugu and in Sanskrit.

Of the 32000 songs composed by him, only 12000 are available.Keertanas like 'Brahma Kadigina Padamu' and 'Adivo Alladivo Sriharivaasamu' are popular even today.

Sri Balaji's influence can be discerned in the thousands of songs sung by another devotee, the famous Purandaradasa. Only a few hundred of his songs are available. 'Daasana Maadiko Enna', 'Nambide Ninna Paadava Venkataramana' are worthy of mention.

Sri Venkatesa has made the great Ramabhakta, Sri Tyagaraja, the author of over 4000 songs, also to pour his heart out in intense bhakti for Him. 'Tera Teeyagarada', 'Venkatesa! Ninnu Sevimpanu' are among his well-known Keertanas on the Lord of the Hills.

The Lord has enriched the entire approach to Bhakti through medium of music, the easiest way to Him. This has been exemplified by the minstrels through millennia. The devotee has to be eternally grateful to Him for this supreme gift.

source : www.sribalaji.com

Lord Venkateswara - Tirupati Balaji

The idol of Lord Vishnu, just to have a glimpse of whom people from different parts of India ...different parts of the world rushes to come and stand in queue for hours after hours is Tirupati Venkateswara.

Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati is believed as the last incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is in the southern Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, 130 kms from the Chennai (Madras), on Tirumala hills from where Lord Venkateswara - popularly known as Balaji - showering his eternal blessing and kindness to the mankind. He is believed to be the one of the manifestation of Lord Vishnu.

The Tirumala Tirupati temple of Lord Venkateswara Balaji in Andhra Pradesh attracts millions of visitors every year. The deity is Extremely Lively and people keeps on standing hours after hours on the queue for offering pooja. This is one of the common belief in the mind of people that whatever you will give to Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati in the name of Puja, God will return you several multiple of that.

Rituals of Worship at Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji

The following list explains some of the various pujas and rituals conducted at the Tirupati Balaji Venkateswara temple located on the Tirumalai hill.

Suprabhatam



Every morning the Suprabhatam, Prapatti and Mangalasasanam slokas are recited, and a descendant of Tallapaka Annamacharya sings a few of Annamacharya's sankeertanas. Devotees present at the time of Suprabhatam can have the Lord's Suprabhata Darsanam, also called Viswarupa Sarvadarsanam.







Kalyanotsavam
Kalyanotsavam is also known as Vaivahikotsavam or Pendli Tirunal. It is conducted in the Kalyana Mandapam and its rituals are similar to those followed in Hindu marriages.

The utsava murti of the Lord (Malayappaswami) is the bridegroom and the two nachchimars are the two brides. An imaginary family pedigree of the contracting parties is recited during the course of the ritual.

The deities of the bridegroom and brides face each other with a screen in between. They are allowed to see each other only at the appropriate auspicious moment when the screen is removed. Marriage homams are performed. A purohit conducts the marriage and an archaka is consecrated to perform the homams and other rituals, on behalf of the bridegroom.

After the marriage, valuable clothes are presented to the brides and the bridegroom and to the purohit and the archaka. Dakshina is also given to the brahmins who officiate at the function. Sweets, cake and food are offered to the deity and distributed to those who are present. In terms of rituals, Pratyeka Kalyanotsavam is the same as Kalyanotsavam.

Tomala Seva

Tomala Seva involves the decoration of the Lord with flowers. Tomala is the shortened form of the Tamil expression 'Toditta Malai' (adorning the deity with garlands of flowers). The flower garlands are prepared in Yamunat-turai. According to tradition, there are fixed specifications as to the kinds of flowers to be used, their source and the length of the garlands. The periya jiyar of the temple or his ekangi bring the garlands along with a lit torch in a procession, to the accompaniment of the beat of the jeghanta.

The deity is then adorned with the flowers , while the mantra- pushpam is recited in the Sayana Mandapam.

The service comes to a close with the waving of the flame known as nakshatra-harati, the sprinkling of mantrodaka, waving of vinjamara, and the priest dedicating the service to the lotus feet of the Lord. During the service, the Vaikhasana priest is assisted by the ekangi. Admission for Tomala Seva is through the Vaikuntam Queue Complex.

Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam

Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam is a purificatory ceremony that takes place in the sanctum. It is performed four times a year - before Ugadi, Aanivari Asthanam, the annual Brahmotsavam and Vaikuntha Ekadashi.

After the first bell, the smaller deities and other articles including the aghandam deepam in the sanctum are moved to the ante chamber. the main deity of the Lord is covered with water-proof material.

The sanctum is then cleansed and a ground paste of kumkum, karpooram (camphor) and chandanam (sandalwood paste) is applied to the walls, ceiling and floor. After some time, the walls are wipred clean. The water-proof covering on the deity is removed, and Laghu Thirumanjanam is given to the main deity and Bhoga Srinivasa. Food is then offered to the Lord during the second bell.

Pavitrotsavam

Pavitrotsavam is a purificatory ceremony, the objective of which is to expiate the mistakes and offenses arising in the daily worship of the deity. This function is elaborately performed in the month of August every year.

Pushpa Yagam

Pushpa Yagam is the worship of the Lord with a variety of sweets and fragrant flowers. It is conducted on sravana nakshatram day after Brahmotsavam.

Archana

First Archana: During the First Archana, also called the Sahasranama Archana, the Lord is worshipped by reciting the Sahasranamam (1008 names of the Lord). Admission for Archana is through the Vaikuntam Queue Complex.

First Bell: This is the first Naivedyam (food offering) to the Lord for the day. Naivedyam is announced by ringing the two bells, followed by Sattumura (recitation of a few psalms of the Prabandham by the Jiyangar or his assistant and the Vaishnava acharya purushas), and the distribution of curd-mixed food among them.

Food is also offered to to Vishwaksena, Garuda and the Nityasuries. The ringing of bells and Naivedyam are popularly known as the First Bell of the temple.

Second Bell and Second Archana: The Second Bell or Aparanhapuja is the second Naivedyam for the Lord. It is followed by a second Archana when the Ashthottaranama (108 names of the Lord as given in the Varaha Purana) is read. This is an ekantam (private) service, and pilgrims are not allowed to witness this ritual.

Abhishekam

Abhishekam to the Lord Sri Venkateswara is performed in the early hours, every Friday. Traditional natural perfumed camphor, saffron, and milk are used for giving a sacred bath to Lord Venkateswara. The namam (white religious mark on the Lord's forehead) is drawn with an intermediate thin tapering line of musk.

Chanting of Vedas and prabandhams: Abhishekam is then performed for the gold image of Sri Lakshmi which hangs in a gold chain on His chest, to the chanting of Sri-Suktam. And at the end, a harati of camphor is waved. The Lord is dressed in a pitambaram along with valuable ornaments.

The saffron water collected from the Lord's body is the Abhisheka Tirtham; it is considered to be holy since it has been in contact with His body. It is given in small spoonfuls to the pilgrims during the Sarvadarsanam that follows as theerthams.

Abhishekam is conducted every Friday, it lasts approxiamately for one and half hours from 0400 hrs. Holders of Rs. 12,250.00, Rs. 750.00, Rs. 300.00 and Rs. 150.00 (per head) tickets are admitted. Only a limited number of tickets are issued for Abhishekam. On Friday, Tomala Seva and Archana are conducted from 0700 hrs to 0800 hrs.

Unjal Seva
Sri Malayappaswami (utsava murthi), Sridevi and Bhudevi are seated in an unjal in the Aina Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) and swung to the accompaniment of Vedaparayanam and Mangala Vadyam.

Vasanthotsavam

Vasanthotsavam is a festival of colours. It is a periodical festival celebrated in the month of vasantham.

Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva

This seva is performed in the Unjal Mandapam. The Mandapam glows with the lights of sahasra deepa (a thousand earthern lamps). The Lord is seated on an unjal, which is rocked gently to the accompaniment of a clarinet orchestra.


Sadalimpu or Sallimpu (on Thursdays)

Tiruppavada, on Thursday, the rich garments and ornaments with which Lord Venkateswara is adorned on the previous Friday are, to a large extent, removed and a bare minimum (dhoti and uttariyam) is left on His body. This process is called Sadalimpu or Sallimpu (loosening or removing). The Lord is dressed in a laced velvet gown.

The kasturi (mark on the Lord's forehead) is also removed leaving only a thin mark

Pulangi Seva (on Thursdays)

After the evening puja and Naivedyam on Thursdays, the Lord's deity is covered with garlands of flowers extending from the crown to His feet. This decoration - exclusively with flowers - is called Pulangi Seva. This is an arjitha seva (paid seva), admission for which is given on the payment of a fee.

Arjitha Brahmotsavam

Brahmotsavam is performed for one day in an abridged manner within the temple precincts. Sri Malayappaswami (utsava murti) with His two consorts is worshipped in the Kalyana Mandapam with Vedic mantras and rituals and mounted on three vahanams - (golden Pedda Sesha Vahanam, silver Garuda Vahanam and silver Hanumantha Vahanam). This seva is performed after Kalyanotsavam.

source : www.indiadivine.org/articles/989/1/Rituals-of-Worship-at-Tirupati/Page1.html

Tirupati Balaji

152 km of Chennai, Tirupati, the abode of the Hindu god Venkateshvara or the Lord of Seven Hills, is the backbone of Andhra Pradesh plgrimage and tourism industry. The world-renowned temple is situated at Tirumala hill, 10 km from Tirupati, at an altitude of 750 m above sea level. The strict rituals followed here are evident from the fact that until late 19th century, non-Hindus were not permitted to ascend the hill itself. The ancient shrine have blossomed with the generous aids and contributions of the all the kings from great dynasties of the southern peninsula including the Pallavas of Kancheepuram, the Cholas of Thanjavur, the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings of Vijayanagar empire. However, the donations multiplied astronomically during the rule of the Vijayanagar dynasty and the legendary king Krishnadevaraya had statues of himself and his consorts installed at the portals of the Tirupati temple.

Raghoji Bhonsle, the Maratha general, visited the temple and said to be the first person to set up a permanent donation for the conduct of worship in the temple along with offerings of valuable jewels and a large emerald to the Lord. The emerald is preserved carefully in a box named after the General to this day. The rulers of Mysore and Gadwal have also been amongst the biggest contributors to the temple. Lord Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala is popularly known as the temple of Tirupati Balaji. The other noteworthy temples at Tirupati are Padmavati Temple dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. A visit to this temple also known as 'Alamelumangapuram' is customary to complete the pilgrimage to the Tirumala temple. Govindaraja Swami Temple was consecrated by Saint Ramanujacharya in 1130 and is one of the most important temples of the city. The 10th century Kodandaramaswami Temple dedicated to Sita, Rama and Lakshmana was built by a Chola ruler. Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple is only temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Tirupati. Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple at Srinivasa Mangapuram is believed to be the place where Lord Venkateswara stayed here after his marriage with Sri Padmavati Devi before returning to his abode at Tirumala.

Lord Tirupati Balaji’s Jewel worth Rs 7000 Crore is being Auctioned by Rudraksha Foundation Society

Gondia, Maharashtra, India A rare and unique precious gem, known as Gondia Ruby is being auctioned by Rudraksha Foundation Society. It is anticipated that the Jewel may fetch the price of US $ 1.6 Billion and is looking for sponsors and buyers for the same.

Mr. Limaye had found a rare and unique precious gemstone, processed it and became the official owner of the largest Star Ruby (1275cts) (Gondia Ruby). The Jewel has a finished cut with all sides polished and is Hexagonal in shape. It shows SIX RAY STAR on both Cabochon sides.

Mr. Limaye could not cash the jewel and to safeguard the welfare of his family members he donated the rare jewel to Lord Venkateshwara of Tirupati Devasthanam in 1998. However, the Trust Board of Tirupati Devasthanam discredited the donor and the jewel instead of accepting the donation.

Mr. Limaye’s feels that the actual owner of the jewel is Tirupati Balaji and which is why he has decided that the money received from the sale will be spent for the welfare of the society in the name of Lord Balaji by Rudraksha Foundation, which is a registered welfare trust.

Gondia Ruby is the officially owned, fully finished largest star ruby in the world. Trustees of Tirupati Devasthanam refused to accept the jewel since last eleven years. Using legal recourse the ownership problem was sorted out and now it is offered for sale. A caveat has been registered on June 8, 2009 after informing the honorable court about the sale.

Once the jewel is sold off it will never reach Tirupati Devasthanam therefore the devotees of Lord Tirupati Balaji are requested to have a look at the video showing the dedicated jewel.

source : www.andhranews.net/India/2009/June/12-Lord-Tirupati-Balaji-11079.asp

Tirumala-Tirupati

The town of Tirupati is one of the most ancient and spectacular places of pilgrimage in India. It is situated in the Chittoor district in southern Andhra Pradesh. The town owes its existence to the sacred temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara situated on the Tirumala Hill adjoining it. With a history that dates back to over twelve centuries, the temple is the jewel in the crown of ancient places of worship in southern India.

The Tirumala Hill is 3200 ft above sea level, and is about 10.33 sq miles in area. It comprises seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Adisesha, thus earning the name, Seshachalam. The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrishabhadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri.

The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri (Venkata Hill), and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the Lord in Tirumala.

The name Tirupati, meaning the ‘the Lord of Lakshmi’ should have been appropriately applied to the village on the Venkata Hill, the abode of the Lord. However, it has been popularly assigned to the Municipal town at the foot of the Hill, while the village around the Hill near His temple is called Tirumala (the Sacred Hill).

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) maintains twelve temples and their sub-shrines in the Tirumala-Tirupati area.

source : www.tirumala.org/maintemple_ttarea.htm

Famous Tourist Attractions of India - Tirupati Balaji Temple

The town of Tirupati-Balaji is one of the most sacred places in India. It is famous for Lord Venkateshwara Deity. The name Tirupati-Balaji means the 'lord of Lakshmi'. The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m above the sea level. It is said to be the richest temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history. The architecture of the temple is such that the Cupola over the sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The shrine consists of three 'Prakarams'or enclosures.

source : www.articlesbase.com

Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple

The town of Tirupati-Balaji is one of the most sacred places in India. It is famous for Lord Venkateshwara Deity. The name Tirupati-Balaji means the 'lord of Lakshmi'. The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m above the sea level. It is said to be the richest temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history. The architecture of the temple is such that the Cupola over the sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The shrine consists of three 'Prakarams'or enclosures.

Tirupati town is 67-km from Chittoor, the southern portion of Andhra Pradesh. The most important place of interest at the place is the historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills, who is famous all over the country.

Everyday is a day of festivity at Tirumala. The most famous is the annual festival called 'Brahmotsavam', which is celebrated on grand scale for nine days in September, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country. The fifth and ninth days of the festival are especially significant in as much as Garudostavam and Rathotavam takes place on those days.

source : http://www.religiousportal.com/TirumalaTirupatiBalaji.html

Lord's Wedding

Tirupati, the Home of Lord Venkateswara has long been the destination of many a newly wed couple. The temple is believed to have a particular signification for newly weds as it is believed to be place where Lord Venkateswara married Padmavathy.

An interesting tale forms the backdrop to the temple. Quarrels are not unknown between happily wed couples and the divine ones are no different. Following a spat with Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi left her heavenly abode and came down to the earth. Here she stayed in a hermitage on the banks of the Godavari.

Missing his beloved, Lord Vishnu went to search of her and this search brought him to earth. Ultimately his quest brought him to the Seshadri hills where he stopped to rest in an anthill. Upset by the separation between Vishnu and Lakshmi, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva decided to intervene. Taking the guise of a cow and a calf they went to live at the place of a Chola king.

The cowherd took them everyday to graze in the Seshadri hills where the cow would secretly visit the anthill where Vishnu was living without sustenance. Emptying her milk, the cow would then return to the palace.

The cowherd was angry as the cow never yielded any milk to him. He watched movements carefully and his explorations brought him to the anthill. In trying to ascertain what lay beneath the anthill, he struck it with an axe thus injuring Vishnu on the forehead.

In search of herbs to heal the wound, Lord Vishnu wandered far and wide. His wanderings brought him to the Shrine of Sri Varahaswamy - the third incarnation of Vishnu as a boar. Here, he sought permission to stay, but Varahaswamy wanted a rental to be paid; Vishnu pleaded that he was poor now and needed rent free accommodation. To reciprocate this gesture of goodwill, he said he would tell his devotees to worship Varahaswamy before they worshipped him. The contract sealed, Vishnu built a hermitage and lived there waited on by a devotee, Vakuladevi who looked after him like a mother. In a nearby kingdom ruled King Akasha Rajan. Childless for many years, he had one day found a beautiful baby girl sleeping on a golden lotus in a golden box while ploughing the fields. He had named her Padmavathy. A beautiful and accomplished girl, Padmavathy had been granted a boon in her earlier birth that she would be married to Lord Vishnu. One day, Vishnu, who had been renamed Srinivasan by his devotee and foster mother Vakuladevi, went hunting in the forest. His wandering led him to a garden with a pond. Srinivasan was thirsty and tired. After drinking from the pond, he rested in the shade of a tree. Soon the soft singing of Padmavathy who was dancing in the garden with her companions roused him. He was stunned by her beauty and drawn to her. She too seemed to be drawn to him, but the angry attendants thinking him a mere hunter drove him away.

Depressed and unhappy he poured his troubles out to Vakuladevi. Now for the first time, he revealed to her who he really was and also told her the story of Padmavathy.

In the meanwhile, Padmavathy was dreaming of Srinivasa. She had no idea who he really was and knew that her parents would never let her be married to a hunter.

Srinivasa urged Vakuladevi to approach Padmavathy's father, Akasha Raja, with the marriage proposal. In the meanwhile he disguised himself as a soothsayer and went to the court of Akasha Raja. There, he assured Padmavathy that the hunter she had fallen in love with was no ordinary man but the Lord and told her that the worries would soon be over. Padmavathy too poured out her heart to her parents. At about the same time, Vakuladevi arrived with the marriage proposal. After consulting with the sages Akasha Raja accepted the proposal and invited Srinivasa to attend the wedding on Friday, the 10th day of Vaikasi.

Srinivasa now had arrangements to make. He sought a loan of one crore and 14 lakh coins of gold from Kubera and had Viswakarma, the divine architect create heavenly surroundings in the Seshadri hills.

The day of the wedding arrived, Lord Srinivasa was bathed in holy waters and dressed in jeweled ornaments befitting a royal bride groom. Then he set off in a procession for the court of Akasha Raja. There Padmavathy waited radiant in her beauty. Srinivasa was hailed with an arthi and led to the marriage hall. There the queen and King washed his feet while sage Vasishta chanted the Vedic mantras. Soon the wedding was over and it was time for Padmavathy to take leave of her parents.

Together, they lived for all eternity while Goddess Lakshmi, understanding the commitments of Lord Vishnu, chose to live in his heart forever.

Tirupati, today, stands as a special place, commemorating the marriage between the two. Everyday, a kalyana utsavam celebrates the divine union in a celebration that stretches to eternity. Even today, during the Brahmotsavam at the temple, turmeric, kumkum and a sari are sent from the temple to Tiruchanur, the abode of Padmavathy. In fact Tirupati is rarely visited without paying a visit to Tiruchanur.

source : www.etirupati.com/mytho.htm

Tirupati - Heaven of Tranquility

The Lord Sri Venkateswaraswamy is the all-pervading Lord of the Universe.

Tirumala’s Balaji shrine is among the more famous temples of India. It reportedly attracts the largest number of pilgrims for any shrine in India. It also has a reputation of being one of the richest shrines in the world. It is managed by Tirumala-Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD).

Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji Temple

Considered as the most sacred and the richest temple in the world, Tirupati temple is situated in the town of Tirupati. It is located 67-km away from Chittoor in Chittoor district of southern Andhra Pradesh. Also known as Tirupati Balaji Temple, it is a major pilgrimage center of south India. Besides, Tirupati also focous on other attraction of this place, the ancient and famous shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills are worth a viist.

The temple is located on a hill at Tirumala. It is a conglomeration of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam having an height of 853m (2,800ft.) above the sea level. The temple boasts of a vibrant and colorful culture also speaking volumes about its grand past. It is an important pilgrimage center, where devotees stand for long hours waiting to get a glance of the presiding deity.

LORD TIRUPATI BALAJI

Tirupati Tirumala Balaji

The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of the Tirupati Hill, and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini.

It is by the Lord's presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills. The temple of Sri Venkateswara has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. The Sastras, Puranas, Sthala Mahatyams and Alwar hymns unequivocally declare that, in the Kali Yuga, one can attain mukti, only by worshipping Venkata Nayaka or Sri Venkateswara. The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas.

In these epics, Sri Venkateswara is described as the great bestowed of boons. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the Lord at Tirumala.

Shri Venkateshwara Suprabhatam

Lord Tirupati Balaji’s Jewel worth Rs 7000 cr is being auctioned by Rudraksha Foundation Society

Gondia: A rare and unique precious gem, known as Gondia Ruby is being auctioned by Rudraksha Foundation Society. It is anticipated that the Jewel may fetch the price of US $ 1.6 Billion and is looking for sponsors and buyers for the same.

Mr. Limaye had found a rare and unique precious gemstone, processed it and became the official owner of the largest Star Ruby (1275cts) (Gondia Ruby). The Jewel has a finished cut with all sides polished and is Hexagonal in shape. It shows SIX RAY STAR on both Cabochon sides.

Mr. Limaye could not cash the jewel and to safeguard the welfare of his family members he donated the rare jewel to Lord Venkateshwara of Tirupati Devasthanam in 1998. However, the Trust Board of Tirupati Devasthanam discredited the donor and the jewel instead of accepting the donation.

Mr. Limaye’s feels that the actual owner of the jewel is Tirupati Balaji and which is why he has decided that the money received from the sale will be spent for the welfare of the society in the name of Lord Balaji by Rudraksha Foundation, which is a registered welfare trust.

Gondia Ruby is the officially owned, fully finished largest star ruby in the world. Trustees of Tirupati Devasthanam refused to accept the jewel since last eleven years. Using legal recourse the ownership problem was sorted out and now it is offered for sale. A caveat has been registered on June 8, 2009 after informing the honorable court about the sale.

Once the jewel is sold off it will never reach Tirupati Devasthanam therefore the devotees of Lord Tirupati Balaji are requested to have a look at the video showing the dedicated jewel.

source : www.financialexpress.com

Tirumala Balaji Darshan

Millions of Hindus across the globe plan to visit Tirumala to have the Lord’s Darshan. He is the supreme, He is all for every Hindu – Lord Venkateswara/ Lord Balaji. Millions visit Tirumala, the Vaikuntam on earth, the abode of Lord Srinivasa, another name for Him.

Day by day, the number of pilgrims who want to have Lord’s Darshan is galloping. It is estimated that 60000 devotees have Lord’s Darshan in the allotted timetable of the day.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam is an autonomous board, which is stretching to maximum, to accommodate more and more devotees to have Lord’s Darshan in any given day.

Weekends, holiday seasons and specials Utsavs attract more devotees to Tirumala. During these days some wait for more that 48 hours to have Lord’s Darshan. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams have made numerous arrangement like Sarva Darshan, Sudarshan token Darshan, Seva Darshan, E-Darshan, E-Seva booking.

Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji

Sri Venkateshwara also known as Venkatachalapathy, Srinivasa and Balaji, is a form of the Hindu god Vishnu in India. Venkateshwara means the Lord who destroys the sins of the people. According the Hindu scriptures, Vishnu, out of love towards his devotees, incarnated as Venkateshwara and appeared for the salvation and upliftment of humanity in this Kali Yuga and is considered the supreme form of Vishnu in this age.


Etymology and other names

The name Venkateshwara can be split into multiple parts in Sanskrit: Ven (sins), kata (destroyer), and ishwara (Supreme Lord). Using this etymology, Venkateshwara refers to the Supreme Lord who destroys sins.

The ancient Vishnu kautuvam describes him as Souryarayan, the one who destroys the evil and who comforts us. He is fondly called as Venkanna in the folklore of Andhra Pradesh. He is also known as Srinivasa, Tirumalesa, Venkatachalapathi, Sripathi, ThiruMaal, Balaji (though this is a more recent name), Venkateshwer, Venkatesa, Venkatapathi, Venkatanatha, Sri Varu, Thiruvengadam Udaiyaan, Maal, Manivannan, Tiruvengadattaan Tirupati Thimmappa, and by many other names.

He is also worshipped with the name Tirupati Thimmappa all over Karnataka by traditionally Shiva-worshipping communities. The presence of seven hills in the area influenced alternate names for the deity: such as Edukondalavadu in Telugu and as Ezhumalaiyan in Tamil, both of which mean "Lord of the Seven Hills". Lord Venkateswara is also known as Maha Ketarie and Maha Parmasree.

Legend

According to the scripture Sthala Purana, the legend of Venkateshwara's Avatara (incarnation) is as follows:

Once some rishis headed by Kasyapa began to perform a sacrifice on the banks of the Ganges. Sage Narada visited them and asked them why they were performing the sacrifice and who would be pleased by it. Not being able to answer the question, the rishis approached Sage Bhrugu, who according to Vedas is believed to have an extra eye in the sole of his foot. To reach a solution after a direct ascertainment of reality, Sage Bhrigu first went to Satyaloka, the abode of Lord Brahma. At Satyaloka, he found Lord Brahma, reciting the four Vedas in praise of Lord Narayana, with each of his four heads, and attended upon by Saraswati. Lord Brahma did not take notice of Bhrigu offering obeisance. Concluding that Lord Brahma was unfit for worship, Bhrigu left Satyaloka for Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva. At Kailasa, Bhrigu found Lord Siva spending his time pleasantly with Parvati and not noticing his presence. Parvati drew the attention of Shiva to the presence of the sage. Lord Shiva was furious at Bhrigu's intrusion and tried to destroy him. The sage cursed Lord Siva and left for Vaikunta, the abode of Lord Vishnu.

At Vaikunta, Lord Vishnu was reposing on Adisesha with Sri Mahalakshmi in service at His feet. Finding that Lord Vishnu also did not notice him, the sage was infuriated and kicked the Lord on His chest, the place where Mahalakshmi resides. Vishnu, in an attempt to pacify the sage, got hold of legs of the sage and started to press them gently in a way that was comforting to the sage. During this act, he squished the extra eye that was present in the sole of Bhrugu's foot. The extra eye is believed to represent the sage's egotism. The sage then realised his grave mistake and apologized to Vishnu. Thereupon, the sage concluded that Lord Vishnu was the most supreme of the trimurthis and told the rishis the same.

Sri Mahalakshmi was angered by the action of her Lord in apologising to Bhrigu who committed an offence. Out of anger and anguish she left Vaikuntha and resided in Karavirapur now known as Kolhapur. After the departure of Mahalakshmi, a forlorn Lord Vishnu left Vaikunta and took abode in an ant-hill under a tamarind tree, beside a pushkarini on the Venkata Hill, meditating for the return of Lakshmi, without food or sleep. This was the place where Lord took the form of Varaha to rescue Mother Earth form the deep ocean.

Taking pity on Lord Vishnu, Brahma and Maheshwara decided to assume the forms of a cow and its calf to serve Him. Surya, the Sun God informed Mahalakshmi of this and requested her to assume the form of a cowherdess and sell the cow and calf to the king of the Chola country. The king of the Chola country bought the cow and its calf and sent them to graze on the Venkata Hill along with his herd of cattle. Discovering Lord Vishnu on the ant-hill, the cow provided its milk, and thus fed the Lord. Meanwhile, at the palace, the cow was not yielding any milk, for which the Chola Queen chastised the cowherd severely. To find out the cause of lack of milk, the cowherd followed the cow, hid himself behind a bush and discovered the cow emptying her udder over the ant-hill. Incensed over the conduct of the cow, the cowherd aimed a blow with his axe on the head of the cow. However, Lord Vishnu rose from the ant-hill to receive the blow and save the cow. When the cowherd saw the Lord bleed at the blow of his axe, he fell down and died of shock.

The cow returned, bellowing in fright and with blood stains all over her body, to the Chola King. To find out the cause of the cow's terror, the King followed her to the scene of the incident.

The King found the cowherd lying dead on the ground near the ant-hill. While he stood wondering how it had happened, Lord Vishnu rose from the ant-hill and cursed the King saying that he would become an Asura because of the fault of his servant. The King pleaded innocence, and the Lord blessed him by saying that he will be reborn as Akasa Raja and that the curse would end when the Lord will be adorned with a crown presented by Akasa Raja at the time of His marriage with Padmavati. With these words Lord turned into stone form.

Thereafter, Lord Vishnu in the name of Srinivasa, decided to stay in Varaha Kshetra, and requested Sri Varahaswami to grant Him a site for His stay. His request being readily granted, Srinivasa ordained that a pilgrimage to His shrine would not be complete unless it is preceded by a bath in the Pushkarini and darshan of Sri Varahaswami, and that puja and naivedyam should be offered to Sri Varaha swami first. Vishnu built a hermitage and lived there, attended to by Vakuladevi who looked after him like a mother.

Sometime later, a King named Akasa Raja who belonged to the Lunar race was ruling over Thondamandalam. Akasa Raja had no heirs, and therefore, he wanted to perform a sacrifice. As part of the sacrifice, he was ploughing the fields when his plough turned up a lotus in the ground. On examining the lotus, the King found a female child in it. The king was happy to find a child even before he performed a sacrifice and carried it to his place and gave it to his Queen to tend it. At that time he heard an aerial voice which said "O King, tend it as your child and fortune will befall you". As she was found in a lotus, the king named her Padmavati. Princess Padmavati grew up into a beautiful maiden and was attended by a host of maids.

One day, Lord Srinivasa, who was hunting, chased a wild elephant in the forests surrounding the hills. In the elephant's pursuit, the Lord was led into a garden, where Princess Padmavati and her maids were picking flowers. The sight of the elephant frightened the Princess and her maids. But the elephant immediately turned around, saluted the Lord and disappeared into the forest. Lord Srinivasa, who was following on horse back, and saw the frightened maidens. However, He was repulsed with stones thrown at Him by the maids. He returned to the hills in haste, leaving His horse behind. Vakuladevi found him lying on his bed, not interested in anything. The Lord informed her that unless he married Princess Padmavati. The Lord then narrated the story of her (Padmavati’s) previous birth and his promise to wed her. After listening to Srinivasa's story of how he had promised to marry Vedavati in her next birth as Padmavati', Vakuladevi realised that Srinivasa would not be happy unless he married Padmavati. She offered to go to Akasa Raja and his Queen and arrange for the marriage. On the way she met the maid-servants of Padmavati returning from a Shiva Temple. She learnt from them that Padmavati was also pining for Srinivasa. Vakuladevi went along with the maid servants to the Queen.

Meanwhile, Akasa Raja and his queen Dharanidevi were anxious about the health of their daughter, Padmavathi. They learnt about Padmavathi's love for Srinivasa of Venkata Hill. Akasa Raja consulted Brihaspati about the marriage and was informed that the marriage was in the best interest of both the parties. Kubera lent money to Lord Srinivasa to meet the expenses of the marriage. Lord Srinivasa, along with his consorts and Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva started the journey to the residence of Akasa Raja with his vehicle Garuda. At the palace entrance, Lord Srinivasa was received by Akasa Raja with full honours and taken in procession on a mounted elephant to the palace for the marriage. In the presence of all the Devas, Lord Srinivasa wed Princess Padmavati, thus blessing Akasa Raja.

Together, they lived for all eternity while Goddess Lakshmi, understanding the commitments of Lord Vishnu, chose to live in his heart forever.

Venkateshwara's temple, today, at the top of the seven hills in the place called Tirumala; stands as a special place, commemorating the marriage between the two. Everyday, a kalyana utsavam celebrates the divine union in a celebration that stretches to eternity. Even today, during the Brahmotsavam at the temple, turmeric, kumkum and a sari are sent from the temple to Tiruchanur, the abode of Padmavati. In fact Tirupati is rarely visited without paying a visit to Tiruchanur.

In the light of this background, it has become the favored destination of many newly wed couples who pray for a happy wedding - a wedding like that of Srinivasa and Padmavati.

A tale associated with the temple goes thus: a helper boy called Bala was once wrongly accused of being a thief. He ran for his life when chased by people. He was hit on the head by the mob and his head started bleeding profusely. He ran to the Tirupati temple of Lord Vishnu and ran to the main door of the temple. When the people entered the temple, they couldn't find the boy but saw the head of god's idol bleeding. It was considered that the boy was sheltered and protected by Vishnu himself, and the priests put cloth on the idol's head to stop the bleeding.


Location of main shrine

Venkateshwara's abode is in the Venkatam hills (the hills are more often referred to as ThiruVenkatam) near Tirupathi. Thus, the main temple of Venkateshwara is the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The Tirumala temple is believed to be the richest of all the temples in the world. The temple is located in Andhra Pradesh (southern India) in Chittoor district. It is around 120 km away from Chennai.


Adoration
Many saints have visited the shrine and worshipped Venkateswara. Notable among them is Adi Sankaracharya, who came to Tirumala and placed the Sri Chakra at the feet of Venkateshwara and sang the song "Bhaja Govindam". Ramanujacharya installed chakra and conch on the deity after a dispute.

The Venkateswara Suprabhatam, being the morning recital of prayers and songs of awakening, is believed to have been written and sung by one of Ramanujacharya's disciples who visited the temple with his Guru. Sri Vadiraja Thirtha, most prominent[citation needed] among the Madhva saints, is believed to have climbed the Tirumala hill on his knees, and is said to have given a garland of shaligram to the Lord.

There is a Govindaraya Vishnu temple in the Tirupati town down below the hills that has Vishnu in Yoga Nidra with Sridevi and Bhoodevi next to him. Traditionally, Kurubas is said to have built the temples on top of the mountains for the worship of Vishnu.

Contributions

The largest donation ever made was 1100 crore rupees which was secretly dropped in 50 gold bricks in front of Tirupati Balaji Temple. The gold came in at night in a airplane which landed near the UP airport. The person was unknown but it was said to have been a American Indian businessman named Vijay Chopra who was in Fortune magazine for gaining $15 billion in 60 Days and saying that he would like to give back to God. When he was asked he said that "Its between him and his balaji". Tirupati is the largest religious place to maintain a neutral status on its donors.


Symbolic Description
In iconographic depictions, Lord Venkateswara's eyes are covered, because it is said, that his gaze is so intense, it would scorch the universe.

source : www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venkateswara

Head Shaving at Shri Lord Venkateswara - Balaji

Tirupati Balaji Temple is almost famous for its head shaving, wealth and its laddus. Every day about 30000 devotees have offered their hair to Lord Venkateswara by thinking that their all troubles will disappear along with their hair.



As per the Vaishavite tradition in tirupati, it is compulsory for the devotees to offer their hair to the lord Venkateswara which symbolizes effacing of the ego. Not only for men who partake in this ritual but also have children and women of all ages shave their head in Tirupati.The tonsuring facilities are available at tirumala hills on cost of Rs. 10/- per head. The barber places at Kalyana Katta, a massive four floor building operating round the clock, near the temple. Devotee can take bath after tonsuring at near Kalyana Katta. Bathroom facilities are also provided by the TTD trust. After taking a holy dip in the Pushkarini tank, devotee can visit the temple for Darshan. There is a very short legend about hair offering at tirupati.

Story of Hair Offering at Tirumala-Tirupati

After the departure of Mahalakshmi due to Bhirigu rishi, Lord Vishnu left Vaikuntha and went to earth in the search of Mahalaxmi. Ultimately his quest brought him to the Seshadri hills where he stopped to rest in an anthill. Listening about the separation of Vishnu and lakshami, Brahma and Shiva got upset and decided to intervene. Thereafter Brahma and lord shiva took to form of cow and its calf and went to live at the place of a Chola king. The sun god informed to goddess lakshami about the plan of Brahma and shiva and requested her to sell the cow and calf to the king of the Chola country assuming the form of a cowherdess.

The chola king bought the cow and its calf and sent them to graze in the Seshadri hills. On this hill, the cow would secretly visit the anthill where Vishnu was living without sustenance. Emptying her milk, the cow would then return to the palace. The cowherd was angry because cow never yielded any milk to him. To find out the reason behind that, he watched movement carefully and his explorations brought him to the anthill. He discovered the cow emptying her under over the ant-hill. The cowherd got wild over the conduct of the cow, and he aimed a blow with his axe on the head of the cow. Because the cow was the actually Brahma, the Lord Vishnu rose from the ant-hill to receive a wound in the head, resulting in a loss of some hair.

When all this happen, there were one witnessed of this matter, named Neeladri, She quickly rushed forward to offer her own hair to replace what the Lord had just lost. Thus was born the tradition of offering hair to Lord Balaji at Tirumala.

Hair business at tirupati :-

TTD exports human hair on a lot of quantity to the many countries. There is a high demand for the hair in Europe especially long hair of women. The tonsured hair of Men is used to extract a protein called L-Cystein. This protein is used in a many products, also including eatable products. The hair is also used in coat linings and Chinese hair industry mixes it with hair from china to make cheap wigs and hair extensions Even Hollywood star also used the Indian hair. Because they think that other countries hair has damage due to use of various chemicals shampoo to clean and beatify their hair, Whereas Indian peoples use natural methods to protect their hair. So that Indian hair is natural, strong, durable and can be colored. It is assumed that the final product which made from Indian hair is very costly.

Tirupati - A Fine Temple Architecture

The temple at Tirumala is believed to have existed from ancient times. The dynasties like the Pallavas of Kanchipuram, the Cholas of Tanjore, the Pandyas of Madurai and the Kings and chiefs of Vijayanagara, vied with one another in endowing the Shrine and offering worship of the presiding deity. The Tirupati temple with its 'gopuram' or tower is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. The elaborate rituals and mode of worship in the temple were prescribed by the saint Ramanujacharya and are being followed even today. Anointing the idol with camphor, and the offering by pilgrims of the hair on their heads by getting themselves shaved by licensed barbers are the important customs in vogue at Tirupati Temple. The 'Vimana' or Cupola over the sanctum sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The Shrine consists of three 'Prakarams' or enclosures. The outermost enclosure contains the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post and, among others, the statues of Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya and his consorts, and of Todarmal, the minister of Akbar. The idol of the deity, the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' (as is called in various parts of the country) has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva, preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.

PLACES OF INTEREST IN & AROUND TIRUMALA

Swami Pushkarani : This tank, adjacent to the temple, is highly sacred.Pilgrims take a bath here before entering the temple.

Akasa Ganga : This is a waterfall about 3 kms to the north of the temple.

Papavinasanam : This is about 5 kms to the north of the temple.

Vaikuntha Tirtham : Is at a distance of about 3 kms north-east of the temple.

Tumburu Tirtham : Is about 16 kms north of the temple.

Geological Arch : This rare geological formation is situated at 1 km north of the temple.

Lepakshi Emporium : An ideal place for purchasing attractive handicrafts at moderate prices.This is situated near Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Central Reception Office.

T.T.D Gardens : The Devasthanams maintain beautiful ornamental gardens with rare species of plants and trees.

Asthana Mandapam (Sadas Hall) : This is the venue for the devotional programs like discourses, music concerts, harikathas and bhajans conducted under the auspices of Dharma Prachara Parishat.

Monuments::Festivals of Tirupati

Tirupati Balaji Temple
Tirupati town is 67-km from Chittoor in Chittoor district, the southern portion of Andhra Pradesh. The most important place of interest at the place is the historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills, who is famous all over the country. The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m (2,800ft.) above the sea level. Said to be the richest temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries. It attracts pilgrims from all over the country who stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.

Tirupati - A Fine Example Of Dravidian Temple Architecture
The temple at Tirumala is believed to have existed from ancient times. The dynasties like the Pallavas of Kanchipuram, the Cholas of Tanjore, the Pandyas of Madurai and the Kings and chiefs of Vijayanagara, vied with one another in endowing the Shrine and offering worship of the presiding deity. The Tirupati temple with its 'gopuram' or tower is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. The elaborate rituals and mode of worship in the temple were prescribed by the saint Ramanujacharya and are being followed even today. Anointing the idol with camphor, and the offering by pilgrims of the hair on their heads by getting themselves shaved by licensed barbers are the important customs in vogue at Tirupati Temple. The 'Vimana' or Cupola over the sanctum sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The Shrine consists of three 'Prakarams' or enclosures. The outermost enclosure contains the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post and, among others, the statues of Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya and his consorts, and of Todarmal, the minister of Akbar. The idol of the deity, the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' (as is called in various parts of the country) has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva, preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.

Festivals of Tirupati
Everyday is a day of festivity at Tirumala. The most famous is the annual festival called 'Brahmotsavam', which is celebrated on grand scale for nine days in September, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country. The fifth and ninth days of the festival are especially significant in as much as Garudostavam and Rathotavam takes place on those days.

The Daily Routines - Tirupati Tirumala Balaji Temple
The daily program starts with 'Suprabhatam' (awakening the Lord) at three in the morning and end with the 'Ekanta Seva' (putting the Lord to sleep) at one in the night. Daily, Weekly and Periodical 'Sevas' and 'Utsavams' are performed to the Lord. Interested pilgrims can choose from the list and pay to get the Sevas or Utsavams done on their name. Devotees offer their gifts and donations in the "Hundi", which is the main source of income.

source : www.atriptoindia.com

Tirupati distances from other cities

Tirupati is well connected by Road, Rail and air. The Tirupati distances from other cities is given below.

Agartala -------- 3314 km
Agra ------------ 1859 km
Ahmedabad------ 1725 km
Aizawl ---------- 3239 km
Ajmer ---------- 2125 km
Akola ---------- 1062 km
Aligarh --------- 1942 km
Allahabad------- 1684 km
Ambala --------- 2253 km
Amritsar -------- 2508 km
Asansol ---------- 1766 km
Aurangabad ------ 1117 km
Bhaktiyarpur ----- 1979 km
Bangalore --------- 247 km
Barauni ----------- 2090 km
Barddhaman ------ 1681 km
Bareilly ------------ 2071 km
Belgaum ----------- 746 km
Bellary ------------ 363 km
Bhagalpur --------- 1994 km
Bhavnagar --------- 1912 km
Bhopal ------------- 1431 km
Bhubaneshwar ----- 1193 km
Bikaner ------------ 2358 km
Bilaspur ------------ 1469 km
Calcutta ------------ 1634 km
Chandigarh --------- 2299 km
Chennai ------------ 152 km
Chittardurga ------- 449 km
Coimbatore -------- 537 km
Cuttack ------------ 1218 km
Dehru Dun --------- 2240 km
Delhi --------------- 2062 km
Dhanbad ---------- 1743 km
Dhule -------------- 1260 km
Dibrugarh ---------- 3115 km
Dimapur ----------- 2950 km
Dindigul ------------ 547 km
Durgapur ----------- 1806 km
Ganganagar --------- 2323 km
Gangtok ------------- 2315 km
Gaya ---------------- 1967 km
Ghaziabad ----------- 2080 km
Ghazipur ------------ 1881 km
Gorakhpur ---------- 1982 km
Gulbarga ------------ 664 km
Guntur -------------- 377 km
Gurgaon ------------- 2084 km
Guwahati ------------ 2676 km
Gwalior -------------- 1764 km
Haldia --------------- 1618 km
Hasan ---------------- 434 km
Hissar ---------------- 2254 km
Hubli ----------------- 652 km
Hyderabad ----------- 592 km
Imphal ---------------- 3160 km
Indore ---------------- 1442 km
Jabalpur -------------- 1343 km
Jaipur ---------------- 2015 km
Jaisalmer ------------- 2298 km
Jalandhar ------------- 2425 km
Jammu --------------- 2644 km
Jamnagar ------------ 2027 km
Jhamshedpur -------- 1587 km
Jhansi ---------------- 1667 km
Jodhpur -------------- 2164 km
Jorhat ---------------- 2979 km
Kakinada ------------- 609 km
Kandla ---------------- 2090 km
Kanniyakumari -------- 835 km
Kanpur ---------------- 1887 km
Kochi ------------------ 730 km
Kohima ---------------- 3015 km
Kohlapur -------------- 849 km
Kota ------------------ 1773 km
Kozhikode ------------- 602 km
Krishnagiri ------------- 260 km
Kurnool ----------------- 353 km
Lucknow ---------------- 1958 km
Ludhiana ---------------- 2366 km
Madurai --------------- 596 km
Mangalore ------------- 594 km
Meerut --------------- 2099 km
Moradabad ------------ 2155 km
Motihari ------------- 2184 km
Mumbai --------------- 1228 km
Muzaffarnagar -------- 2144 km
Muzaffarpur ---------- 2193 km
Mysore --------------- 386 km
Nagpur --------------- 1079 km
Nanded --------------- 847 km
Nashik --------------- 1267 km
Nellore -------------- 130 km
Panaji --------------- 839 km
Paradwip ------------- 1317 km
Pathankot ------------ 2537 km
Patna ---------------- 2018 km
Pondicherry ---------- 317 km
Porbandar ------------ 2119 km
Pune ----------------- 1065 km
Purulia -------------- 1660 km
Raipur --------------- 1357 km
Rajkot --------------- 1941 km
Rameshwaram ---------- 744 km
Ranchi---------------- 1749 km
Ranipettai ----------- 110 km
Raurkela ------------- 1527 km
Rohtak --------------- 2152 km
Sagar ---------------- 1469 km
Saharanpur ----------- 2192 km
Salem ---------------- 372 km
Sambalpuri ----------- 1401 km
Shahjahanpur --------- 2126 km
Siliguri ------------- 2201 km
Shillong ------------- 2776 km
Shimla --------------- 2404 km
Shivpuri ------------- 1742 km
Silchar -------------- 3002 km
Solapur -------------- 822 km
Srinagar ------------- 2937 km
Surat ---------------- 1427 km
Thane ---------------- 1207 km
Thanjavur ------------ 494 km
Thiruvananthapuram --- 922 km
Thrissur ------------- 651 km
Trichchirappalli ----- 468 km
Tirunelveli ---------- 752 km
Tuticorin ------------ 731 km
Udaipur -------------- 1977 km
Ujjain --------------- 1574 km
Ulhasnagar ----------- 1201 km
Vadodara ------------- 1599 km
Varanasi ------------- 1809 km
Vijayawada ----------- 409 km
Vishakhapatnam ------- 791 km
Warangal ------------- 623 km