Why people visit Tirupati Venkateswara Balaji..?

There is an interesting story that Kubera has granted a huge amount of loan to Lord Balaji, the highest diety in kaliyug, for his marriage and Lord Balaji agreed to repay the interest from the collections of temple at Tirupati, Andra Pradesh State, India. We don't know how far the story is true. But, Hindu people have got much faith on Lord Balaji who is also known as Lord Venkateshwara. It is said that a turning point will come in the life of a suffering person, if he visits this temple once. Many people regularly visit the temple before performing a good deed or before starting a new business. Common people will also make a visit to this temple with a hope that something good will happen in their life. The tourists from all the countries and all the parts of India come to Tirupati and like to have the darshan of Lord Venkateshwara.

Many businessmen give a share of profit to this temple, on a regular basis. By the grace of Lord Balaji, the impossible things are made possible and the delighted people want to thank him in the form of putting some money in the Hundi at the temple. The daily Hundi collections exceed Rupee one crore and some people put gold, silver coins and jewellery also in the Hundi. The people stand in long queues patiently, to have the darshan for few seconds. People believe that Lord Venkateshwara will come to our rescue if we give him a call and relieve us from our problems, whether we are a strong devotee or not. Many people give a vow to the Lord that they will visit Tirupati temple and leave the ego by tonsure, that is giving away the prestigious hair. Some people engage in fasting and do prayers to Lord venkateshwara to win his grace.

Some people like to walk from foot of the Tirupati hills. Some people visit tirupati, before starting arrangement for marriage, to submit the wedding card at the lotus feet of Lord Balaji. Special types of darshan facilities are also available. The VIPs and rich people make use of these to have the sacred darshan of Lord Balaji. On holidays, Saturdays and Sundays, there will be heavy rush. Special transport facilities are available from all parts of India, for visiting Tirupati. Also, advance booking for darshan can be made from many places and online booking facilities are also available. The most auspicious function in Tirupati is the brahmotsavam festival and devotees from all over India and even from foreign countries, will be awaiting eagerly, to visit Tirupati at the time of this festival. It is believed that the creator of mankind the Lord Brahma first conducted this festival and hence, named as brahmotsavam. Normally, in the month of October, brahmotsavam is celebrated for a period of nine days. The rite of ankurarpana, that is sowing of seeds is performed in the evening, with a puja for Sri Vishvaksena, who removes obstacles, before commencement of brahmotsavam.

On the first day, the commencement of brahmotsavam is marked by hoisting of the garuda flag at the Dhvajastambham. By this, Garuda will reach devalokam to invite all devas for this function. Daily homas and procession of utsava murthi on different chariots are performed on all the nine days. The last day is the Birth star of Lord Balaji and so, it is celebrated very grandly with special alankarams and abishekams. The sudharshana chakra is bathed in pushkarani and the devotees are blessed with the holy water dripping down from this chakra which is placed on a high platform. The lowering of garuda flag is known as dhvajavarohanam, which marks the end of the festival. The common people join with the priests and pay respects to Gods and Sages. Ther Veda Mantras are chanted by all. The festival is really a feast for millions of devotees.

source : www.saching.com

tirupati balaji darshan

TIRUMALA – The Abode of Lord Venkateswara

Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam, is one of the most popular Hindu shrine in the country. The temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara at Tirumala is perched at height of 874 metres above mean sea level and 15 km. North-west of Tirupati, the temple town is located at the foot of the seven hills of the Eastern Ghats in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The 12th century Vaishnavite shrine is one of the richest shrine of the world, with annual income of the temple being more than two billion rupees. Often referred as the ‘Vatican of the East’, the size of the visiting pilgrims and the wealth the temple town offers in terms of religious, cultural and natural splendour, make it an unsurpassed pilgrimage site.

HISTORY: The exact period in which the temple was founded is not known, and tradition has it that the temple is Swayambhustala, meaning, it came into existence on its own without anyone making it. As per folk legends there was a huge anthill at Tirupati. A farmer heard a voice from the heavens asking him to feed the ants. By chance the local king heard the voice and began supplying milk for the ants, himself. His compassion resulted in the liquid uncovering a magnificent idol of Lord Venkateshwara hidden beneath the anthill. According to some evidences the history of the temple dates back to almost 2,000 years.

In the ancient times a queen called Samavai belonging to Pallava dynasty (614 AD.) is said to have consecrated the first silver image here. The temple is also mentioned in the Sangam poetry (500 BC. – 2000 AD.). Numerous temple inscriptions from the 9th century record details of the temple and contributions made by both Pallavas and Chola Kings. It is believed tat originally there was only one shrine at Tirumalai. When the Vaishnavite saint, Ramanuja, visited Andhra in the 12th century, the temple at Tirupathi was built. The Chola period saw the temple complex prospered and expanded. In 1517, Krishnadevaraya, on one of his many visits to the temple, donated gold and jewels enabling the Vimana (inner shrine) roofing to be gilded. The Maratha general Raghoji Bhonsle visited the temple and set up a permanent administration for the conduct of worship in the temple. Among the later rulers who endowed large benefaction were the rulers who endowed large benefaction were the rulers of Mysore and Gadwal.

In 1843 with the coming of the East India Company, the administration of the Shri Venkateshwara temple and a number of shrines was entrusted to Seva Dossji of the Hathiramji Mutt at Tirumala as Vicaranakarta for nearly a century, till 1933 when the temple was under the administrative charge of the mahants. The Madras legislature passed a special act in 1933 whereby the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) committee was invested with powers of administration and control through a commissioner appointed by Govt. of Madras. A Ryot Advisory Council was formulated for the management of the estates of the TTD, this was assisted by Religious Advisory Council with regard to religious matters.

The Tirumala Temple

The Tirumala temples nestles amidst the peaks of the seven hills of Tirumala. The temple can be approached from Tirupati by a 15 km. Road, it is a pleasant drive many pilgrims even today take this path by foot making a 11 km. trek to the temple. For the devotees, the deity Venkateshwara symbolizes goodness, with his conch he creates the cosmic sound that destroys ignorance. Venkateshwara is considered to be the most powerful Hindu deity, he is believed to be the fulfiller of every wish made to him by the devotees. There are never less then 5,000 pilgrims here at any time. In a single day. The total number of pilgrims even goes upto 10,000 in a day. The temple staff alone accounts to a number of 18,000. The popularity of the temple can be judged by the annual income which is around two billion rupees per annum. The devotees offer money, precious articles etc. in the hundi or collection box placed at various sites in the temple. Silver model of the feet or a silver heat are also put in the hundi, these models are available outside the temple.

This entire sum is administered by a temple trust, who plough this bulk of money back into hundreds of choultries and charities such as schools, colleges, art academies, craft training centers and in the homes of the poor and orphans. It is considered to be very auspicious to have your head shaven when visiting the temple. People donate their hair to the deity, as an act symbolic of renouncing the ego, this applies to men, women and children alike. The temple is very large and has a huge courtyard. Te main shrine which contains the image of Sri Venkateswara is a complex of structure. It begins with the sanctum at the western end and ends with the Tirumamanimandapam at the eastern end. The main temple is a masterpiece of the Dravidian architecture. Its glittering gold Vimanam, rising protectively over the sanctorum seems to be lit with some inner fire touched glow. It is called as Ananda Vimanam. The innermost enclosure ‘Vaikunda Pradakshinam’ is opened only once a year. Splendid gold covered gates guard the entrance of the main sanctum sanctorum. The ‘Swayambhu’ or naturally formed two metres high idol of Sri Venkateswara depicts the Lord’s standing image on a lotus. It has four arms and on the chest are the images of Goddesses Lakshmi and Padmavati. The majestic jet black idol is adorned by a mass of gold and precious stones.

Most striking is the fabulous crown which is said to be the costliest single ornament ever made in the world. The darshan of the deity is a heavenly experience. The aura created by the magnificent jewellery adorning the deity, the powerful vibrations of the prayers offered day in and day out is overwhelming, every devotee coming out of the sanctum sanctorumhas the feeling of being special. The prasad cooked in the temple kitchens is also of great value among the devotees. The prasad is first offered to the deity before distribution, it is not only of special significance to the pilgrims but also a great delicacy. The pilgrims enjoy the bracing climate on the hill. Comfortable and reasonably priced accommodation are available, alongwith delicious South Indian food and coffee.

The Seven Sacred Hills

The picturesque Tirumala hills is situated 2820 ft above MSL and is about 100sq.m in area . It comprises seven peaks ,representing the seven hoods of Audisesha , thus earning the name Seshachalam.

The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Vedadri, Garudadri, Anjandri, Vrishabhadri, Narayandri and Venkatadri (Adri in sanskrit means Hill).The Venkatam hill is believed to be a part of the celestial mount meru, brought to the earth from Vaikuntam by Garuda.The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak,Venkatdri and there are several legends associated with the manifestation of the lord in Tirumala. The shrine of the lord is very ancient and there are ample references to it in the early inscriptions belonging to the Chola and Pallava periods as well in the Sangam literature.

The abode of the lord is about 10 Km north-west of Tirupati and there are footsteps leading to the hill as well as two separate serpentine roads to reach the shrine. According to legend ,God Vishnu revealed himself earlier in the previous incarnations as Varahaswamy on the banks of the present temple tank..This manifestation of the white boar (Sveta Varaham) is enshrined in the Adi Varahaswany temple situated on the northeastern banks of the tank.

The Sanctum sanctorum called the Garbha Griha is where the main idol of lord Venkateswara resides. The idol stands majestically to a height of eight feet, in the centre of the sanctum directly beneath a gold guilded dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divay Vimana.The exquisitely wrought idol called the Mulabera is believed to be Svayambhu(self manifested) ,according to the legends. Further ,no human being is known to have either sculpted or installed the idol in the shrine.

On normal days the imposing idol is adorned with a golden Kiritam which has a large emerald embedded on its front. On special occasions like the Brahmothsavam, he is adorned with his precious diamond crown worth Rs 30 Crores. On his forehead ,the lord has a thick double patch of upright Namam drawn with refined camphor which screens his eyes. In between the two white patches is the Kasturi tilakam .His ear's are bedecked with shinning golden Makara Kundalas. The fist of his right raised hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra and the correponding left fist is with the Sankha. The slightly outstretched right hand has its finger pointing to his lotus feet, as the only recourse to his devotees to attain oneness with him and enjoy eternal bliss. . His right hand is akimbo to assure his devotees of protection and to show the proverbial SamsaraSagara, the ocean of mundane life ,is only hip deep if they seek refuge in him.

He has on the right side of his chest a clear impression of Goddess Lakshmi's, his consort. The deity has a unique magnetism, many devotees who go through the fleeting Sarvadarsanam have unusual psychic experience. They leave with a sense of spiritual satisfaction, coupled with a religious hunger to stand in front of Lord Venkateswara and experience the bliss again and again.

Tirumala - Tirupati - Some facts

Tirupati is a temple town in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is located in the foot hills of Tirumala Tirumala - Tirupati - General. Tirupati is one of the holiest places in Hinduism and is well known as kaliyuga vaikuntam by its devotees. Tirupati, or Aadhi Varaha Kshetra, as it is known in the Puranas (Scriptures on Hindu Mythology), is an important mountainous pilgrimage site in the Hindu world. It is dedicated to Vishnu the second deity of the Hindu Holy Trinity who assu ...
Including:

* Tirumala - Tirupati - General
* Tirumala - Tirupati - Tirumala
* Tirumala - Tirupati - Tirupati City
* Tirumala - Tirupati - History of the Shrine
* Tirumala - Tirupati - Festivals
* Tirumala - Tirupati - Tonsure
* Tirumala - Tirupati - Some facts

On The Human Hair Tonsured at Tirumala Tirupati Temple

In 2007, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is planning to sell human hair worth 450 million Indian Rupees. This is an all time record for the famous shrine in India dedicated to Lord Balaji (Vishnu). The human hair from Hindu temples like Tirupati is nicknamed ‘Temple Hair’ and is of great demand due to its spiritual value.

Head tonsuring at the 1200-year-old Venkateshwara temple is a symbolic gesture –surrendering one's ego to God. Hindu devotees also offer their hair to Lord Balaji for favors received, to show gratitude and respect. And go on a pilgrimage to Tirupati to shave off their hair.

It is not the men alone who partake in this ritual; children and women of all ages shave their head in Tirupati. And there is a high demand for the long hair of women in Europe. It is estimated that more than 1500 women partake in this tonsuring ceremony daily and the number goes high on festival and auspicious days. The women’s hair ends up in salons across the world for making hair extensions and wigs.

The tonsured hair from men is used to extract a protein called L-Cystein. This protein is used in a range of products including eatables. Men’s hair is also used in coat linings and Chinese hair industry mixes it with hair from china to make cheap wigs and hair extensions.

Now, who uses the hair from Tirupati? It is said that several Hollywood stars prefer Indian hair. Why? They are the best quality and also due to the spirituality angle. Majority of the Indian men and women use natural methods to protect their hair unlike people from other countries who use various chemicals (shampoo) to clean and beautify their hair. So the Indian hair is natural – strong and durable and can be colored, curled, heated and blow-dried. It is said that the final product made from an Indian hair is sold between $1000 to $3000.

Hundreds of barbers work round the clock to meet the high demand of tonsuring, which is carried out at kalyanakatta, an enclosure inside the temple. The hair is segregated in grades. Hair that is black and longer than 16 inches is of the highest quality. Second quality is the black hair in length between 8 and 16 inches. Next is black hair shorter than 8 inches. The next two categories are the lowest and consist of grey and other colored hair.

Till 2000, the sale of hair annually was between 100 to 150 million rupees. But then there was a global surge in demand for human hair and the temple decided to invite global tender for hair purchasing. Within a couple of years, the annual earning from human hair increased from 150 million rupees to 330 million rupees and this year it is expected to break all existing records.

source : www.hindu-blog.com

Meaning of Tirupati Balaji

The word "Venkateshwara" or "Venkatesa" is a combination of three words, namely,(1) VEM meaning 'sin' or 'papam'(2) KATA meaning 'destroy' or 'wash away'(3) ISA OR ISHWARA meaning 'GOD' or 'Lord'.Thus, the word Venkateswara or Venkatesa means 'God who destroys sins of His devotees'.

Tirupati Balaji, Lord Venkateswara's another true video

Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati, also known as Venkataramana Murty, is regarded as the last incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is hard to find a household in south India where the hymns in praise of the lord are not recited. The Tirumala Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh attracts millions of visitors every year. It is also one of the most well maintained and managed temples with online reservations for visits and Poojas. The offerings and donations by the devotees amount to several hundred crores of Rupees every year. A well-managed temple trust runs the "Venkateswara" hospitals, schools, colleges and a university with the money.

Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatam

• Kowsalya supraja Rama poorva sandhya pravarthathe
• Uthishta narasardoola karthavyam daivamahnikam
• Uthishtothishta Govinda uthishta garudadhwaja
• Uthishta kamalakantha thrilokyam mangalam kuru
• Mathassamasta jagatham madukaitabhare:
• Vakshoviharini manohara divyamoorthe
• Sree swamini srithajana priya danaseele
• Sree Venkatesadayithe thava suprabhatham
• Thavasuprabhathamaravindalochane
• Bhavathu prasanna mukhachandra mandale
• Vidhisankarendra vanithabhirarchithe
• Vrishasaila nathadavithel davanidhe
• Athriyadhi saptharushayssamupasyasandyam
• Aakasa sindhu kamalani manoharani
• Aadaya padhayuga marchayithum prapanna:
• Seshadrisekhara vibho! Thava suprabhatham
• Panchananabja bhava shanmukavasavadhya:
• Tryvikramadhi charitham vibhudhasthuvanthi
• Bhashapathipatathi vasara shuddhi marath
• Seshadri sekhara vibho! thava subrabhatham
• Eeshathprapulla saraseeruha narikela
• Phoogadrumadi sumanohara Balikanam
• Aavaathi mandamanilassaha divya gandhai:
• Seshadri shekara vibho! thava suprabhatham
• Unmeelya nethrayugamuththama panjarasthaa:
• Paathraa vasishta kadhaleephala payasani Bhukthvaa
• Saleelamatha keli sukha: patanthi
• Seshadri sekhara vibho! thava suprabhatham
• Thanthreeprakarshamadhuraswanaya
• Vipanchyaa Gayathyanantha charitham
• Thava naradopi Bhashasamagrama sakruthkara sararammyam
• Seshadri sekhara vibho! thava suprabhatham
• Brungavaleecha makaranda rashanuvidda
• Jhankara geetha ninadaissa sevanaya
• Niryathyupaantha sarasee kamalodarebhyaha
• Seshadri sekhara vibhol thava suprabhatham
• Yoshaganena varadhadni vimathyamaane
• Ghoshalayeshu dhadhimanthana theevraghoshaaha
• Roshaathkalim vidha-dhathe kakubhascha kumbhaha
• Seshadri sekhara vibho! thava suprabhatham
• Padmeshamithra sathapathra kathalivargha
• Harthum shriyam kuvalayasya nijanga Lakshmya
• Bheree ninadamiva bibrathi theevranadam
• Seshadri sekhara vibho! thava suprabhatham
• Sreemannabheeshta varadhakhila lookabandho
• Sree Sreenivasa Jagadekadayaika sindho
• Sree devathagruha bhujanthara divyamurthe
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Sree swamy pushkarinikaplava nirmalangaa
• Sreyorthino hara viranchi sanadadhyaha
• Dware vasanthi varavethra hathothamangaha:
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Sree seshasaila garudachala venkatadri
• Narayanadri vrishabhadri vrishadri mukhyam
• Akhyam thvadeeyavasathe ranisam vadanthi
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Sevaaparaashiva suresa krusanudharma
• Rakshombhunatha pavamana dhanadhi nathaha:
• Bhaddanjali pravilasannija seersha deSaha:
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Dhateeshuthevihagaraja mrugadhiraja
• Nagadhiraja gajaraja hayadhiraja:
• Swaswadhikara mahimadhika marthayanthe
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Sooryendhubhouma bhudhavakpathi kavya souri
• Swarbhanukethu divishathparishathpradanaa:
• Twaddhasa dasa charamavadhidaasa daasa:
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Thwathpadadhulibharita spurithothha manga:
• Swargapavarga nirapeksha nijantharanga:
• Kalpagamakalanaya kulatham labhanthe
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Thvadgopuragra sikharani nireekshmana
• Swargapavarga padaveem paramam shrayantha:
• Marthyaa manushyabhuvane mathimashrayanthe
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava Suprabhatham
• Sree bhoominayaka dayadhi gunammruthabdhe
• Devadideva jagadeka saranya moorthe
• Sreemannanantha garudadibhirarchithangre
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Sree Padmanabha Purushothama Vasudeva
• Vaikunta Madhava Janardhana chakrapane
• Sree vathsachinha saranagatha parijatha
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Kandarpa darpa hara sundara divya murthe
• Kanthaa kuchamburuha kutmialola drishte
• Kalyana nirmala gunakara divyakeerthe
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Meenakruthe kamatakola Nrusimha varnin
• Swamin parashvatha thapodana Ramachandra
• Seshamsharama yadhunandana kalki roopa
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Elaa lavanga ghanasaara sugandhi theertham
• Divyam viyathsarithi hemaghateshu poornam
• Drutwadhya vaidika sikhamanaya: prahrushta:
• Thishtanthi Venkatapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Bhaswanudethi vikachani saroruhani
• Sampoorayanthi ninadai: kakubho vihangha:
• Sree vaishnavassathatha marthitha mangalasthe
• Dhamasrayanthi thava Venkata! subrabhatham
• Bhramadayassuravarasamaharshayastthe
• Santhassa nandana mukhastvatha yogivarya:
• Dhamanthike thavahi mangala vasthu hasthaa:
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• Lakshminivasa niravadya gunaika sindo:
• Samsarasagara samuththaranaika setho
• Vedanta vedya nijavaibhava bhakta bhogya
• Sree Venkatachalapathe! thava suprabhatham
• ltnam vnsnacnala pamerlna suprabhatham
• Ye manava: prathidinam patithum pravrutha:
• Thesham prabhatha samaye smruthirangabhhajam
• Pragnyam paraartha sulabham paramam prasoothe
• Venkateswra Stotram
• Kamalakucha choochuka kunkumatho
• Niyatharunithathula neelathano
• Kamalayatha lochana lokapathe
• Vijayeebhava Venkatasaila pathe
• Sachadhurmukha shanmukha panchamukha
• Pram ukakhila daivatha mouli mane
• Saranagatha vathsala saranidhe
• Paripalayamam vrishasailapathe
• Athivelathaya thava durvishahai
• Ranuvela Kruthairaparada sathai:
• Paritham thvaritham vrishasailapathe
• Paraya krupaya paripahi Hare
• Adhivenkata saila mudaramather
• Janathabimathadhika danarathath
• Paradevathaya gathithannigamai:
• Kamaladayithtanna param kalaye
• Kalavenuravavasa gopa vadhu
• Sathakoti vrithath smarakoti samath
• Prathivalla vikabhimathath sukhadhath
• Vasudeva suthanna paramkalaye
• Abhirama gunakara dasarathe
• Jagadeka danurdhara dheeramathe
• Raghunayaka Rama Ramesa vibho
• Varadho bhava deva daya jaladhe
• Avaneethanaya kamaneeyakaram
• Rajaneechara charu mukhamburuham
• Rajaneechara raja thamo mihiram
• Mahaneeyamaham Raghuramamaye
• Sumukham Suhrudam Sulabham sukhadam
• Swanujam cha Sukhayamamogha—
• Saram Apahaya Raghudwaha manyamaham
• Na kathnchana kanchana jathu bhaje
• Vinaa Venkatesam nanatho nanatha:
• Sadaa Venkatesam smarami smarami
• Hare Venkatesa Praseeda Praseeda
• Priyam Venkatesa Prayachha Prayachha
• Aham doorathasthe padamboja yugma
• Pranamechaya gathya sevam karomi
• Sakruthsevaya nithyasevapalam thvam
• Prayachha prayachha prabho Venkatesa
• Agnanina maya doshaanaseshan vihithan Hare
• Kshamasvathm kshamasvathvam
• Seshasailasikhamane
• Venkateswra Prapatti
• Eesanam jagothosya Venkatapathe
• Vishno paraam preyaseem
• Thadhwakshasthala nithyavasarasikam
• Thath kshanthi samvardhineem
• Padmalankrutha pani pallavayugam
• Padmasanasthaam Sriyam
• Vathsalyadi gunojwalam Bhagavatheem
• Vande jaganmatharam
• Sreeman krupajaianidhe krithasarvaloka
• Sarvagna Saktanathavathsala sarvaseshin
• Swamin susheela sulabhasritha parijatha
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Aanupurarpitha sujatha sugandhi pushpa
• Sowrabhya Sowrabhakarow samasannivesow
• Sowmyow sadanubhavanepi navanu bhavyow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam papadhye
• Sadyo vikasi samudithvara saandra raga
• Sourabhya nirbhara saroruha soumya vaartham
• Samyakshu sahasa padeshu vilekhayanthow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Rekamayadwaja sudhakala saathapatra
• Vajraamkrusamburuha kalpaka sanka chakrai
• Bhawyai ralankruthathalow parathathva chinnai
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Thamrodara dyuthi parajitha padmaraagow
• Baahyairmahobhi rabhi bhootha mahendra neelow
• Udhyannakhamsubhi rudastha sasaanka bhasow
• Sree Venkatessa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Saprema bheethi kamalakara pallavabhyam
• Samvahanepi sapadiklamamada dhanow
• Kantha vavaangmanasa gochara sowkumaryow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Lakshmeemaheetha dhanuroopa nijanubhava
• Neeladi divyamahisheekara pallavanam
• Aarunya sankramanatha kila saandra raagow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Nithyanamadvidhi sivadi kireetakoti
• Prathyupthadeepta navarathna mahaprarohai
• Neerajanavidhi mudaramupada dhanow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Vishnopade parama ithyuditha prasamsow
• Yow madhwa uthsa ithi bhogyathayapyupaaththow
• Bhooyasthathethi thava paanithala pradishtow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Parthaaya thathsadrusa saarathina thvayaiva
• Yow darshithow swacharanow saranam vrajethi
• Shoyopi mahyamihathow karadarsithowthe
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Manmoordhni kaaliyapane vikataataveshu
• Sree Venkatadri sikhare sirasi srutheenaam
• Chithepyananyamanasam samamahithowthe
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Amiana hrushyadavaneethala keernapushpow
• Sree Venkatadri sikharabharanaya manow
• Aanandithaakila manonayanow thavaithow
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Praya prasanna janatha prathamavagahyow
• Mathusthanaviva sisoramrtuhayamanow
• Prapthow parasparathulamathulantharowthe
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Sathvotharaissathathasevya padambujena
• Samsaratharaka dayadradruganchalena
• Soumyopayanthru munina mamadarshithowthe
• Sree Venkatesa charanow saranam prapadhye
• Sreesa sriya ghatikaya thvadupaya bhave
• Prapye thvayi swayamu peyathaya spuranthya
• Nithyasrithaya niravadya gunayathubhyam
• Syam kinkaroo Vrishagireesanajathumahyam
• Venkateswra Mangalam
• Sriyah kanthaya kalyana nidhaye nidhayerthinam
• Sri Venkata nivasaya Srinivasaya Mangalam.
• Lakshmi savibhramaloka-subhru vibhrama chakshushe
• Chakshushe SarvaloKanam Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Sri Venkatadri Sringagra-Mangalaha bharananghraye
• Mangalanam nivasaya Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Sarvavayava soundarya Sampadha Sarvachethasam
• Sada sammohanayasthu Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Nithyaya niravadhyaya Sathyananda chidhathmane
• Sarvantharathmane Srimad Venkatesava Mangalam.
• Swathassarvavide sarvasakthaye Sarvaseshine
• Sulabhaya Suseelaya Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Parasmai Brahmane Poorna Kamaya Paramathmane
• Prayunje Parathathvaya Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Akalathathva masrantha mathmanamanu-pasyatham
• Aipthya mritha rupaya Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Prayah swacharanow Pumsam Saranyathvena Panina
• Kripaya dhisathe Srimad-Venkatesava Mangalam.
• Dhayamritha tharanginya-Stharangairiva Seethalaih
• Apagaissinchalhe viswam Venkatesava Mannalam.
• Sragbhushambara hetheenam Sushamava hamurthaye
• Sarvarthi Samanavasthu Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Sri Vaikunta virakthaya Swami Pushkarineethate
• Ramaya Ramamanaya Venkatesaya Mangalam.
• Srimad sundarajamathru manimanasavasine
• Sarvaloka Nivasava Srinivasaya Mangalam.
• Mangalasasana paraih madacharya Purogamaih.
• Sarvaischa Purvairacharyaih Sathkrithayasthu Mangalam.

Lord Balaji at Tirumala Tirupati

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.

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

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

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).