Tiruchanur, is one of the oldest pilgrim towns located 5km away from Tirupati, is the abode of Goddess Sri Padmavathi Devi, the beloved consort of Lord Venkateswara
There are a few temples of Lord Suryanarayana Swamy in India. Among them, the temple in Tiruchanur is very ancient, historical and famous. Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy Himself installed the deity and worshipped Him in Tiruchanur.
Tiruchanur, the Divya Kshetram, is approx. at the distance of five kilometres away from Tirupati. Transport facilities are available from Tirupati. As per the ‘sthalapurana,’ in the olden days Sri Suka Maharshi lived in this place and was called as Sri Sukanoor.
In Tamil, Sri Sukanur is called as Thirugachanoor and later it became Tiruchanur. Tiruchanur is also known as Alimelu Mangapuram and Alimelu Mangapatnam.
The Temple Legend
As per the Puranas, in the olden days, Sapta rushis did a ‘Yagna’ for ‘Dharmarakshana.’ They gave the responsibility to Brughu Maharshi to select eligible ones among Trimurthis for offering ‘Yagna Havissu.’ Maharshi went to Satya Loka, Kailasa and decided that Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva were not eligible to take ‘Havissu’.
Then the maharshi went to Vaikuntam. At that time, Lord Vishnu spoke with Lakshmi and he did not mind Brughu Maharshi. With this, Maharshi became angry and he had kicked on the chest of Lord Vishnu with his leg. Then Lord Vishnu started doing seva for Brughu.
Goddess Lakshmi Devi by seeing all these, got hurt and came to the earth and stayed in Kolhapur. Lord Vishnu, who came to the earth in search of Lakshmi Devi, didn’t find Her. He stayed in Venkatadri for some time. One day Srinivasa heard some unknown voice from the sky: “Build a lake in the area of Sri Shuka Maharshi’s ‘ashram’ on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi and do penance there, your wish will be fulfilled.”
After hearing the voice, Lord Srinivasa reached Tiruchanur and built ‘Padmasarovaram’ (pushkarini) and launched the lotuses brought from heaven into that lake. He enshrined Lord Surya and worshipped Him. He spent twelve years doing penance there. After that, Mahalakshmi appeared to Swami at Padmasarovaram.
In this way, the ‘sthalapurana’ reveals that Sri Venkateswara Swamy Himself enshrined Lord Suryanarayana in Tiruchanur.
Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple Structure
In Tiruchanur, the temple of Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy is facing towards the west in the eastern side of Pushkarini known as Padma Sarovaram. The temple has ‘mukhamandapam,’ ‘ardha mandapam’ and ‘garbhalayam.’ Arthamandapam is attached to Pradakshina Mandapam.
In the main ‘garbhalayam’ of the temple, Lord Sri Surya Bhagavan is seen in standing posture with two hands and wearing lotuses in both hands, showering blessings on the devotees. The Lord stands on ‘Padma Peetha’ and wears crowns, garlands, ‘yajnopaveetam’ and ‘kankanas.’ In ‘garbhalaya’ one can see the ‘utsavamurti’, which is about three and a half feet high, along with Mulavirattu (main deity).
History
Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy has been worshipped in Tiruchanur since the 6th and 7th centuries. The temple flourished during the rule of the Vijayanagara emperors. It seems that in 1866, during the administration of the Mahants, Dharmadasu Ji Mahant built a new temple and reconsecrated the Lord. This temple is currently under the administration of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.
Some Beliefs
There are many beliefs among the devotees about the Lord. There is a widespread belief among the devotees that if one bathe in Padmasarovaram and worships Him, all diseases will be removed and health will be improved. Along with this, by visiting and worshipping the Lord, one’s wishes will be fulfilled and the lost things will be recovered.
Pujas and Festivals
Every Sunday, there is ‘Abhisheka Seva’ to Moolavirattu and every month Hasta star for ‘utsavamurti’ also along with daily pujas. Every month on the day of Hasta star, there is Pallaki Seva to the Lord. On the occasion of Rathasapthami and Makara Sankranti, special pujas, ‘abhishekas’ and ‘alamkarana’ are performed along with ‘gramotsavam’.
Transport facilities are available from Tirupati. May Lord Suryanarayana Swamy shower His graceful blessings on His devotees! It is said that one who worships the Lord in this temple will be freed from health-related problems. Have a visit to this temple on your trip and be blessed with health, wealth and prosperity.
Goddess Mahalakshmi – Alamelu Manga – Holy Pond – Miracle of Padma Sarovara
In the ancient holy land of Bharata Khanda, there were regions, which were famous by the names of kingdoms called Chappannar. There were 56 countries. Once upon a time, it was called Kambojadesam, named after the king Kamboja. But, over time, it was forgotten and nobody now remembers their names. It was a land of plentiful nature’s gifts.
With good crops, it was also known for excellence in Arts. There were great warriors and men with valour and women ready to sacrifice their ‘mangalya’ for a heroic cause. With plenty of wealth and splendour, each home was joyful. It was as if Goddess Mahalakshmi was living amongst them. Every home was a divine place- Vaikuntham.
Panchami Theertham Event at Padma Sarovar – Holy Pond in Tiruchanur
King Sankhana
At one time, it was ruled by a king called Sankhana. His valour was matched by his limitless generosity. With his kind-heartedness, he loved all the citizens of his country. He had one quality, i.e., he was amenable to any kind of advice without thinking of its consequences. As he was kind-hearted, he used to give away anything without thinking, even for a moment, whether the person to whom he was giving deserved it or not.
Naturally, because of this quality of misplaced generosity, he lost everything in his possession, including his kingdom; nobody cared for him. His sorrowful condition was because of his ill-fated personality. He was left in poverty. He was made to leave his kingdom along with his wife. Left in distress, he moved aimlessly like a vagabond.
Disgusted with himself, he used to wonder at his fate and uttered the following words to himself: “I was once an Emperor, with all the splendour and majesty. Now I am destitute. The world, for whom I have given so much of my wealth and comforts, is now looking down upon me. We cannot bear this condition. So, let us end this life”.
These words shocked his wife, who was devoted to him. She wept bitterly and prayed to God in these words: “Oh Lord Srimannarayana, if at all, You exist, spare my husband, protect him”. She also swore by the power of her mangal sutra, like this: “Oh Goddess of the world! Save my husband and my mangalya”.
Maybe, because of their past, noble deeds, they saw some holy men, when they were wandering on their aimless journey. Falling at their feet, they prayed like this, with these touching words.
There was a deep feeling in what they uttered: “Oh holy saints! You are our saviours. Only you can save us from our present sorrowful condition”.
Then, the holy men intuitively learnt about their past glory and present sorrow and uttered these words:
“All your sorrows are because of your fate. Nobody can escape the deeds of fate. Instead of bemoaning your sorrows, you can redeem your fate by taking a bath in holy places and visiting temples and worshipping God. Very soon, you will get your kingdom and all your sorrows will come to an end”.
With these words, the holy men went away after blessing them.
In such moments as these, affected by fate and feeling sad due to the sorrows of life, the value of meeting noble minds, and talking and interacting with them increases our faith in the goodness in this world.
The pleasures of this ‘SATWA’ are many; they lighten our hearts and give us new, enlightened thoughts and make us search for new pastures of hope and renewal of joy. Visiting holy shrines is also one such activity to clean our minds of evil thoughts and deeds.
Thus, the erstwhile king and his wife visited all the holy shrines:
In Srirangam, they took a holy dip in Cauvery and worshipped at the feet of His Holiness Shri Ranganathaswami and Jambukeswara.
In Madurai, they feasted their eyes by worshipping Goddess Meenakshi and their devotion knew no bounds when they visited the holy temples of Rameswaram.
With their minds filled with devotional thoughts, they also visited Kanchi to worship Varadarajaswami and Goddess Kamakshi; after visiting all these holy places, they finally reached the Seven Hills of Lord Venkateswara.
They took a holy dip in the Swarnamukhi River and performed the rituals by mentioning their “Gothra nama” and worshipping Shri Gnana Prasunamba and Sri Kalahasteeswara.
Swarnamukhi River at Srikalahasti
Padma Sarovaram
Then, a holy man came near the resting Sankhana and told him the following words:
“Oh, mighty king! There is a Holy Pond called “Padma Sarovaram”, as it is known for its beautiful Lotus Flowers. This was created on the prayer of Venkateswara. Goddess Mahalakshmi was born in these Thousand-Petalled Lotuses. As those Lotuses are Golden Flowers, they shine in their Resplendent Brightness.
Hence, the Goddess is known as Padmavathi and Alamelu Mangamma to all Her devotees. As this Goddess is known for Her Kindness and Benevolence, She is worshipped by all the Gods like Brahma, Sun, Moon and all the Navagrahas. You must go and take a holy bath in that Holy Pond with a strong will for the restoration of your kingdom. All your past sins will be atoned and your life once again will be happy with a sense of fulfilment”.
After listening to the holy words of this wise man, they were overwhelmed with inexplicable joy and decided to take a bath. After seeing that Holy Pond, near Sri Kalahasteeswara temple on the northern banks of the Swarnamukhi River, they were delighted. It was filled with Lotus Flowers and joyfully humming bees. They enjoyed the pleasure of taking a bath in the holy water, which was also a wonderful spectacle of many delightful creatures swimming in those waters.
Sri Gnana Prasunamba and Sri Kalahasteeswara
That pond was surrounded by sweet, fragrant flowers and sweet-smelling fruits. It was a wonderful spectacle of delightfully chirping birds. It was a soul-filling experience, with its quiet, fragrant breeze filling their senses. It was here that Lord Venkateswara spent His days in worshiping and chanting the name of Mahalakshmi for Twelve Years.
It was Shukla Panchami in Karthika masa on Friday on Abhijit lagna and Uttarashada star that Sri Mahalakshmi made Her Divine Presence as Alamelu Manga in this Holy Pond. Our past sins will be atoned if we take a bath in this Holy Pond!
Thus, the royal consorts by enjoying nature’s beauty, which gave delight to their eyes and divine bliss, took a holy dip in that pond by invoking the blessings of Almighty God! By pronouncing their Gothra and nama, they prayed to Sri Mahalakshmi with reverence and devotion:
“Oh, Mother! You are quintessentially present in all the creatures, Glittering in all brilliance! You are present adorned in Golden Attire and decorated Yourself with invaluable ornaments!
You are the very Embodiment of Pure Joy and Eternal Beauty! You endow Yourself with the Holiest of mantras called OMKARA and seat Yourself ever so majestically on the left side of Sri Mahavishnu, by having water in the Golden Kalasa and Golden Lotuses in Your Hands, You Bless us, the troubled humanity with Karuna! We pray at Your Holiest Feet! Give us Your darshan to make our lives worthy!
And You drive away all our sorrows and poverty and sins! Oh Mother! Let us live at Your lotus feet! You shower Your Blessings on all of us the besieged and turn people!
And – You are the Destroyer of all our sorrows and fears! We salute to You! You are present in Swami’s Bosom to bless us with wealth and plenitude! We prostrate before You! Give us Your darshan to make our lives holy!
And Drive away the murky darkness in us! Sanction us all wealth and prosperity by removing our poverty!
In this manner, King Sankhana with his royal consort prayed to Sri Mahalakshmi on the banks of this Pond with bhakti and in his trance-like prayer to Her Holiness, Alamelu Manga symbolizing Universal Mother appeared in his vision. Then, he sang in great ecstasy the following lines:
“I praise You, Goddess, who is shining with all the noble qualities and who is praised by no less a person than the Lord, (who is born in the Lotus) and living in Splendid Brightness in the Left-Hand position of Lord Vishnu (who lives in Vaikuntha). All be well with You, the Giver of all wealth.
He praised Her also in these words: “You are a Goddess praised and eulogized by all the Gods. You are called Bhadra and You are the daughter of Goddess Lakshmidevi. You are called Nithya. You are the Eternal Source of Wisdom and Divine Knowledge. You are also called Sathyadevi, as You are present in all these still and motionless and yet moving objects”.
As the mighty king lost himself in a trance, failing to describe Her greatness and majesty any further in words, he lost himself in silence. In that trance like condition, he had a vision. In that vision, he had seen a marvellous spectacle.
In that spectacle, he heard the words of a holy man like this:
“Oh! Mighty and noble king! When you have taken the bath in all the holy rivers and ponds, all your past sins have been atoned! Now you are shining with resplendent brightness, blessed with divine sanction. As you are blessed with the vision of Her Holiness, you are shining like pure, molten gold, without impurities. If you come along with Me, I will take both of you, the royal consorts, to a place of Great Bliss and Divine Presence”.
Sri Venkatachalam
As they followed with obedience and devotion, the footsteps of the holy man, they saw a spectacle of rare beauty. When they asked him, where was he taking them, he replied that they were going to the Divine Shrine called Sri Venkatachalam.
It is known by many names:
In Krithayuga, it was called Vrishachalam;
in Thretayuga, it was called Anjanachalam;
in Dwaparayuga, it was known as Seshachalam.
It was such a Pious and Holy Mountain that it would remove all our sins. It would drive all our sins like the dark clouds being driven away by the sun’s sharp rays. Even the mere touch of these Venkatachala Mountains would remove all our sins. It would also give us wealth, children and health and intelligence and great strength of mind.
Like this, it would endow us with whatever we pray for! It is a delightful place with nature in full blossom! Flowers bloom; lakes, ponds, humming bees, flower gardens, green trees and fragrant air – all these nature’s bounties make this Venkatachalam a marvellous spectacle of Heaven on earth!
With the presence of rare birds, wild animals and great Rishis in their meditation in the caves and Yogis-they are all eternal symbols of God’s presence on earth. Also, the brilliantly shining precious stones and diamonds make a feast for our eyes.
Meru Mountain
Once upon a time, the most glittering mountain called, Meru, went on a penance to please Lord Brahma. It appealed to Lord Brahma to make it eternal, shining with precious diamonds and perennially rich in all nature’s bounties. From then onwards, it has become the Shining Abode of all that is Great and Bountiful.
It is also known as Sri Venkatachala Kshetra, where all the Rishis and Gods are in penance. Also, all good people and noble souls are in penance. They worship all the natural forces for the welfare of humanity and the universe at large.
It was in this place that noble Rishis like Suka, Lord Brahma and others were chanting the Vedas as all the Hills reverberated with the Vedic incantations. Some great men and yogis are dancing in joy along with the peacocks and serving at the Feet of Lord Venkateswara.
The cuckoos and parrots are chanting the Puranas. This beautiful mountain is shining even more brightly with the spiritual power of these Rishis. There is also a Holy Pond called Swami Pushkarini. It was brought to this world by the Garutmanta as ordained by Lord Mahavishnu.
Pushkarinis – Pushkaradri
There are many other ponds, waterfalls and sacred places where people take their baths. They are known as pushkarinis. As there are many such pushkarinis, that Hill is known as Pushkaradri.
The small rivulets and tanks, filled with Holy water, to their brim, not only purify the past sins of the devotees but also cure their illnesses. Hence, this place is known for its beneficial qualities of further enriching all the joys and happiness of the devotees.
Lord Vishnu made this mountain His Abode along with His Consorts, Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhummhalakshmi for the sake of His devotees, on the prayer of other Gods and Sage Narada, and all the Rishis. Since then, He has been present on this Holy Hill along with His Consort Sri Mahalakshmi and become the only God in the Kaliyuga.
He is the God sanctioning all our desires and fulfilling our hopes. Also, Sri Mahalakshmi, with Her Kind Heart and Benevolent Self prays to Lord Srinivas to fulfil all our prayers. She also enthuses the Lord to grant our desires. She is seated on a Lotus in a rectangle and is known as VYUHALAKSHMI, as She is eternally present in Her Lord’s bosom.
As She appears hidden in the bosom, we can also see Her in the form of SWATANTRA VEERALAKSHMI on the banks of the Swarnamukhi river in Sukapura. She is present as ARCHAMURTHI, the deity worshipped in temples.
“Oh mighty king, Sankhana! As you have taken a Holy bath in the Lotus Pond and worshipped Alamelu Mangamma as Veera Lakshmi all your past sins have been atoned. One can worship Swatantra Veera Lakshmi as all the devotees can worship Her at all times. But, they cannot worship “VYUHA LAKSHMI” as She is present in Lord Venkateswara’s Bosom.
She listens to the devotees’ prayers first and then prays to Lord Venkateswara for their fulfilment. She is present as “VYUHA LAKSHMI” in Swami’s Bosom. Her mind is ennobling. Her Kindness is Eternal. She always gives Her grace to all Her devotees at all times.
She is called VYUHALAKSHMI. She is our Kamadhenu and Chintamani granting all our prayers. Her ‘Two Hands’ are the Kalpavriksha. Her DIVYASWARUPA – i.e., Her Divine Presence is a symbol of Infinite Wealth.
We are overwhelmed by Her intimate Kindness, as Her Divine Beauty inspires many possessed artists! Even our mere looking at Her Most Gracious Face removes all our sins; all the enlightened souls worship VYUHALAKSHMI with their devout prayers, poems and songs.
She is Ubiquitous in Her Presence, with Her Wisdom of the Holiest of Gods, Gayathri; She is the Creator of all that is Changing and Eternal. She is the source of Gnana and is worshipped by the noblemen. She inspires good thoughts and deeds in us! She Saves us from our unintended evil deeds.
If we worship Her and Swami by Gayathri Mantra, we will be blessed with the fulfilment of all our desires by the Gracious Kindness of Sri Lakshmi Venkata Ramana Swami.
Sri Vatsa vakshasam srisam srilolam srikaragraham Sri mantam srinidhim sri dhyam srinivasam bhajenisam
Swami wears Sri Mahalakshmi as Srivatsam in His bosom. Swami, Lakshmipathi looks after Her with Infinite Love- He, the source of All Forms of Knowledge and Wealth! They spend all Their time redeeming the suffering humanity. They are worshipped by the devotees in the Holiest of Shrines called Venkatachalam.
In these Holy Mountains, there are Seven Hills called – Seshadri, Garudadri, Venkatadri, Narayanadri, Vrishabhadri, Vrishadri and Anjanadri. Hence, this Shrine is called SAPTHAGIRI. Lord Srinivasa invokes His Divine Blessings, as the Protector of all His devotees.
Swami Pushkarini at Tirumala
While saying these words, the nobleman accompanied the king and his royal consort to Swami Pushkarini and explained the significance of the Holy Pond in these words:
“Performing the holy ritual on Ekadasi, doing service to noble souls and taking holy baths in this Swami Pushkarini – are truly fortunate events in anybody’s lives. You are blessed with all these three events. Today is Ekadasi. You can accept Me as your path-finder. After performing your Sankalpa, you can take a holy dip in this Pushkarini. Taking Me as your instructor and path-finder, now you can visit the temple of Lord Srinivasa”.
After they took a bath in Pushkarini, He took them to the temple of Advaraha swami and after asking them to next visit the temple of the Lord, who was possessing Alamelu Manga as VYUHALAKSHMI in His bosom, the nobleman disappeared. Spellbound with these miracles and wonders of Nature, the royal consorts, attended the temples of Lord Srinivasa.
They were wondering whether it was a dream or mere illusion, as they continued their journey to Sapthagiri Hills. After paying respects to the Lotus Pond, they climbed the Mountains with deep devotion and were enamoured by Nature’s beauties. They spent all their time praying to Lord Srinivasa. King Sankhana’s mind and thoughts were filled with devotion to Him. He was chanting the names of ‘Srinivasa’ and ‘Govinda’.
With deep love, he uttered these words; “Oh God! Give me Your darshan! I have no hunger or thirst, as I am praying to You. All my thoughts and feelings and mind are filled only with You. Oh! Goddess, Alamelu Mangamma! On our behalf ask Your Lord to show His Benediction and Infinite Kindness to us!”
Praying like this, they spent six months in great joy and with a sense of fulfilment. One day he was praying like this with folded hands;
Sri Venkatesam ! Lakshmisam ! anishtaghna mabheeshtadam Chaturmakhera tanayam srinivasambhajenisam
“Oh Lord Venkateswara! You are the Lord of All Mountains! You are our Benefactor! You are the Source of all that is Beautiful and Eternal. We always pray to you!” As they were praying in this manner, an appearance was shining in a glittering manner.
It came out of the Holy Pushkarini. It was like a Resplendent White Mighty Cloud. It was marvellous to see such a spectacle! It was also bedecked with many rare and precious stones. It was the Abode of Lord Srimannarayana.
In it, they saw Srimannarayana along with Bhu-Neeladevi in Their Splendid Appearance. They were decorated with many jewels of scintillating beauty, and fragrant flowers. As they made Their Appearance, all the Gods showered flowers, chanting their Names. The royal consorts saw the divine spectacle as they were fortunate.
Lord Srinivasa blessed the royal couple with the following words;
“Oh, mighty king! I have appeared before you to tell you that all your past sins have been atoned. You have visited Me and Sri Mahalakshmi who is in My Bosom. Now you are pure. You are shining like molten gold. You will get your kingdom back soon. You will enjoy all your past comforts, pomp and glory”.
After that, Sankhana regained his kingdom by defeating all his enemies and attained Moksha after leading a happy life. He achieved Kaivalya (Supreme end). By reading this story, we come to know that, by making a trip to Tirumala to seek the Blessings of Lord Srinivasa, all our sins and sorrows would disappear. This should enthuse all the devotees to pray to Him for His Blessings.
Adivarahakshetramu
Earlier, Tiruchanur was known as Adivarahakshetramu. Now we should know about this Adivarahakshetramu. It was created as Adivarahakshetramu, long before it came to be known as Sri Venkatachala Kshetram. It was called Adivarahakshetram as Sri Mahavishnu Appeared as a White Pig in One of His “Avataras”.
Since Bhudevi sat on His left thigh it came to be known as Bhuvaraha Kshetramu. There are Two Goddesses beside Him in Vaikuntham. They are, Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhu Mahalakshmi. The two Goddesses, namely Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhu Mahalakshmi were responsible for the incarnation of Padmavathi.
Vedavati in Kaliyuga appeared with the spirit of Bhudevi of Tretayuga and with the spirit of Sri Mahalakshmi She appeared as Padmavathi in the Golden Lotus Pond.
In any case, in one word, whether it is Sri Varahakshetra or Venkatachala or Sri Padmasarovara-all these are the incarnations of Bhu Mahalakshmi and Sri Mahalakshmi. These are not fortuitous events: without the determination of Bhu Mahalakshmi, the incarnation of Varaha Swami – would not have been there; had Sri Mahalakshmi left Vaikuntha, there would not have been the incarnation of Sri Venkateswara nor the existence of Holy Venkatachala Kshetra.
Similarly, neither Kolhapur nor Tiruchanur would have existed. Thus, the Two Wives of Srimannarayana were the Divinely Given incarnations. Whether we call Them Harikoluvu or Venkatachala or Sirikoluvu (which became Tiruchanur) – These Shrines are Blessed Shrines for human liberation (moksha).
Sri Lakshmi Venkataramana Govinda ! Govinda !! Govinda !!!
Varalakshmi Vratam at Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple
Varalakshmi Vratam festival with grand festivity and faith is celebrated in the Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple also as a special annual event. The rituals of this festival are different in many aspects from the other normal rituals in the temple.
The Process of Varalakshmi Vratam
On this day of Varalakshmi Vratam, the Goddess Lakshmi is grandly worshipped in eight of Her various forms.
Those eight forms are
Bhagya Lakshmi,
Vidya Lakshmi,
Bhu Lakshmi,
Prti Lakshmi,
Kirti Lakshmi,
Santi Lakshmi,
Tushti Lakshmi and
Pushti Lakshmi.
This Vratam is performed in the large hall of Asthana Mandapam of Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple. As this is offered as an Arjita Seva all the couples of devotees who participate in this Vratam sit in rows for collective performance of this with all necessary worshipping materials and wait for the timely instructions of the priests.
In the process of worshipping according to the scriptural procedure, the Sankalpa is recited with all details such as the regional location on the globe and the holy tithi details along with the names of Year, Half-year, Month, Fortnight, Day, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana and other aspects.
The wish for performing the puja is for the welfare of the entire human beings. At the time of Sankalpa along with the welfare and well-being of the human race, all the devotees submit their wishes to the Goddess to grace them all personally for their all kinds of riches and prosperity.
16 Upacharaas (Services) to the Goddess
Then puja with sixteen services including
Dhyana (Contemplating upon the Goddess),
Avahana (Inviting to the place of Puja),
Ratna Simhasana (Seating Her on the Jewel-decked throne),
Arghya (Offering Sandal paste and flowers mixed with pure water),
Padyam (Water for washing the feet),
Acahamaniyam (Water for swallowing three sips of water as a process of drinking),
Panchamrita Snaanam and Suddhodhaka Snaanam (Bathing with five nectarous liquids – Milk, Ghee, Honey, Curd and Coconut/sugar mixed water and also with pure water),
Vastra Yugma (Offering a pair of clothes),
Abharanas (Offering Ornaments to the Goddess),
Gandha (Offering Sandal Paste),
Akshatas (Offering Yellow rice),
Pushpapuja (Worshiping with flowers and Names),
Dhupa (Offering fragrant sticks), Dipa (lamp), Naivedya (Offering different kinds of food to the Goddess),
Tambulam (Offering Betel leaves, Nut powder etc),
Karpura Nirajanam (Camphor Flame Arati),
Mantra Pushpam (Offering Handful of flowers) and
Pradakshina Namaskarams (Final Pranams at the end of the Puja).
Vrata Katha (The Story of the Vrata)
At the end of the Vrata, the story related to this Vrata should be heard from the priests. In the temple of Padmavati Ammavaru also they narrate the story in the following manner. This story was taken from Skanda Purana.
This story was narrated by Siva to Parvati. According to his narration in the good olden days in the city of Kundina, there was a Brahmin woman named Charumati. She was very much devoted to serving her parents-in-law and her husband very sincerely. She was a very learned woman. She speaks very pleasantly with all. Her heart was pure and serene. One day she had a dream. The essence of the dream is that Goddess Vara Lakshmi appeared in her dream and advised her to perform Varalakshmi Vratam. She also narrated the procedure of the Vratam.
Charumati offered many prayers to Goddess Varalakshmi in the dream and the next morning she shared the dream experience with all of her relatives. They were all very much pleased to know all the details. This vrata should be performed on the penultimate Friday to the Fullmoon day (Purnima) of the Sravana Month.
All of them along with Charumathi had much awaited the day and performed the Vratam as per the procedure narrated by Goddess Vara Lakshmi. As a result, all of them became richer and richer. Their wealth grew endless. The grace of the Goddess was fully showered over them.
Slowly this Vratam became popular in the entire city. All the residents of that city started performing the Vratam and the city became the richest. Slowly this spread to the other cities. Everyone was doing this vrata and turning rich. Everyone was praising the great and noble heart of Charumati. Thus she has been praised by all ever since till date.
This story can be seen even in the Bhavishyottara Purana.
The Mother Goddess on the Golden Chariot
In the evening of the Varalakshmi Vratam day, the well-adorned idol of the Mother Goddess Sri Padmavati Devi at Tiruchanur is seated on the Golden Chariot. While the chariot goes around the holy streets of Tiruchanur around the temple all the devotees come out and pay respects to the idol on the Chariot.
While the Vedic scholars chant the divine Vedic Hymns, the artists of different traditional and auspicious musical instruments play their respective instruments singing in praise of the glory of the Goddess. The chariot is followed by groups of devotees performing different kinds of Bhajans and also teams of different cultural arts presenting traditional folk dances and songs in praise of Goddess Lakshmi and Vishnu.
Thus at Tiruchanur, the whole day of Varalakshmi Vratam is grandly celebrated with utmost devotion, enthusiasm and zeal and with great faith. In this festival, all the priests, officials, devotees and even all the residents of Tiruchanur participate at different intervals having their share in successfully celebrating the Festival.
Let Goddess Varalakshmi shower her divine blessings on all the devotees for their prosperity and perfection.
One should be aware of Ashtalakshmis or the manifestations of Goddess Sri Lakshmi.
Veda Lakshmi in TretaYuga
A sage named Brahmarishi Kushadhvaja was fixated on the Vedas. He was apathetic towards the institution of marriage but enthusiastic about begetting Goddess Lakshmi. One day while pursuing the Vedas, the celestial Narthaki (dancer) Urvashi ambled past Brahmarishi Kushadhvaja.
Bewitched by her beauty, he gets distracted for a second. As a consequence, Lakshmi descends to the Earth. She was born whilst pursuing the Vedas, hence the epithet Vedavathi.
During Her formative years, being Lakshmi’s apparent incarnation, She was engrossed in Lord Vishnu’s thoughts. She performs austere penance in the Himalayas. Whilst exploring the Himalayas on Pushpaka Vimana, Ravana saw Vedavathi. She self-immolates in indignation and reaches ‘Agni Loka.’
At the time of the capture of Sita, Agni substitutes Sita with Vedavathi considering the intolerable imminent adversities. At the event of ‘agni pravesha’, Lord Agni replaces the true Sita who acknowledges and appreciates Vedavathi’s selflessness granting Her a wish as a token of gratitude.
Perpetually ambitious about Lord Narayana, Vedavathi gladly expresses Her desire to be His eternal divine consort.
Being monogamous in Treta Yuga, Lord Narayana comforts Vedavathi permitting Her desire to come to fruition in Kaliyuga instead. This narrative is documented in Kurma Purana, one of the indisputable compilations of Sri Veda Vyasa.
The Valmiki Ramayana is not exhaustive, but a comprehensive account of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. However, the remainder of the Puranas encompasses intricate details. In comforting Vedavathi, Lord Vishnu conceives an opportunity to descend to the earth in Kaliyuga.
Ever since the spirit of Vedavathi endured as Veda Lakshmi anxiously awaited the Lord’s descent. The Lord manifests as Matsya Narayana or Veda Narayana at Vedanarayana Swamy temple of Nagalapuramnear Tirupati.
Srivatsa Lakshmi (Vaikunta)
Srivatsa Lakshmi resides as a mole on the chest of Lord Vishnu. Everyone is well-acquainted with the episode of Bhrigu Maharshi paying a visit to Vaikunta to see Lord Vishnu and Sri Lakshmi who were absorbed in a sobering conversation at the time of his arrival.
Since it is the onset of Kaliyuga, Lord Vishnu advises Sri Lakshmi that it is high time to manifest on the earth. Anomalously, He suggests Lakshmi descend ahead for Him to follow His lead. Lakshmi apprehensively reminds the Lord that she customarily follows His lead in every avatar instead; subsequently, gets married and partakes in annihilating the evil.
Lord Vishnu remarks the upcoming ‘avatar’ is distinctive and does not ensure a return to Vaikunta upon conclusion, unlike the earlier ones. With negative personality traits being an inherent attribute in everyone, it is futile to seek change. It would be pragmatic to change their thought patterns and safeguard the staunch devotees from evil instead.
Persistent about goddess Lakshmi’s descent, the Lord takes the honorific ‘Srinivasa’ as an explicit homage to Sri Lakshmi. With Lakshmi being perturbed over the forthcoming separation, the Lord suggests Her to take solace from the fact that He shall descend as a mere mortal and invigorate His supremacy once they reunite.
Bhrigu Maharshi arrives at that instant and eventually hurts Lord Vishnu. Bhrigu was comforted by the Lord, which enrages Sri Lakshmi. She determines to leave Vaikunta and descends to the earth in resentment. Bhrigu Maharshi’s episode is merely a divine interlude.
As Bhrigu was impertinent towards Lord Vishnu out of ‘tamo guna,’ Sri Lakshmi vows She shall return to Vaikunta in Her ‘shuddha sattva’ form alone.
Mahalakshmi (Kolhapur)
Goddess Sri Lakshmi went to Kapilaranya i.e. Kapila Maharshi’s hermitage. One can perceive Her presence in Kolhapur with the spiritual powers of the ancient sages. As Sri Lakshmi performed acute penance, Agastya and the other sages sought her refuge.
Sati Devi’s eyes fell on Padmavatipuram as she self-immolated during Daksha Yagna. Once, Lord Brahma created three ‘manasaputras.’ They were Gaya, Lavana, and Kolha who regrettably turned unrighteous. Gayasura and Lavanasura were eliminated by Lord Vishnu, but Kolhasura wreaked havoc in Padmavatipuram under his reign.
Kolhasura, along with his son Karavira, dissuaded Agastya and the other sages from their divine austerities. As Agastya and the sages sought Sri Lakshmi to extinguish them. Since her imminent return, Sri Lakshmi slaughtered them. As a dying wish, Kolhasura and Karavira entreat Sri Lakshmi to name their province after them.
Hence the eponymous Kolhapur! Sri Lakshmi obliges and manifests as Maha Lakshmi to safeguard Her devotees.
The third manifestation since Veda Lakshmi and Srivatsa Lakshmi. The divine architect Vishwakarma replicated Manidweepa (the abode of Shakthi) for Kolhapur Maha Lakshmi. Vaikunta being desolate since Lakshmi’s departure, the Lord expeditiously descended to the Earth.
Swatantra Veera Lakshmi in Tiruchanur
Meanwhile, in Treta Yuga Veda Lakshmi’s spirit prevailing on the earth was discovered as Padmavathi Devi by Akasha Raja. She was discovered in a lotus while ploughing the earth. Hence the epithet Padmavathi. The union of Lord Venkateswara with Goddess Padmavathi is a widely-known narrative.
Since Maha Lakshmi manifested in Kolhapur, Lord Venkateswara had to borrow money from Lord Kubera as goddess Padmavathi is goddess Lakshmi’s partial incarnation. Her absolute incarnation manifested in Kolhapur, The Lord felt inadequate without His eternal divine companion.
Honouring Padmavathi, the Lord suggests Her remain at Vakula Mata’s hermitage while He goes in quest of Sri Lakshmi. As the Lord reached Kolhapur, all deities were discernable except Sri Lakshmi despite Her manifestation.
The distraught Lord bathes in Padma Kund, Panchaganga and Rudraprayaga which is an undiscovered sanctified confluence, to pacify His eternal consort. Ensuing ten years of vain penance, ‘akashvani’ apprises the Lord that goddess Lakshmi manifested in Her unsympathetic (rajo guna) form to eradicate the nefarious.
Hence, the mace, ‘paana paatra’ and lion. Goddess Lakshmi shall be apparent merely in Her purest form. ‘You visit Shuka Maharshi’s hermitage, excavate a pond, and plant lotuses from Deva Loka and ensure those lotuses do not wilt for about twelve years whilst meditating on Sri Lakshmi.
Subsequently, She shall emerge on Karthika Panchami in Her ‘shuddha Sattvika’ form and reach You’. The Lord acts per the divine voice and visits Suka Maharshi’s hermitage. Every Durgashtami, temple honours are sent to Kolhapur from Tirumala, in keeping with the long-established tradition since her manifestation. Eventually, the Lord visits Sri Shukapuram i.e. the present Tiruchanur.
Distressed by the Lord’s abandonment, Sri Padmavathi was prescribed severe penance on Venkatachalam by Vakula Matha to expedite His return. With the Lord at Shuka Maharshi’s hermitage, Sri Padmavathi at Venkatachalam, and goddess Maha Lakshmi in Kolhapur, when do they unite? When the Lord arrives at Suka Maharshi’s hermitage, He excavates a divine pond. Vayu Deva was entrusted to equip the excavated pond with the majestic golden lotuses from Deva Loka.
To prevent the lotuses from wilting, the Lord directs the Sun to remain in Kolhapur for twelve years. Reflecting upon Sri Lakshmi’s ‘shuddha sattva’ form, the Lord recites the Maha Lakshmi Moola Mantra meditating on the heart of lotus for twelve years. Reaching Padmasarovaram, the Gods and sages intensified their prayers pleading with Sri Lakshmi to return to the Lord.
With the advent of Panchami of Karthika month in the twelfth year, while the Lord was immersed in deep penance. Brighu Maharshi earnestly apologised for his impertinence urging Maha Lakshmi to be His descendant offering to perform fervent penance.
The golden lotus at the core of Padmasarovaram unfurled revealing a pacified Maha Lakshmi on Karthika Shukla Panchami in Her serene form. Be-jewelled, illuminating, and adorned in white while the majestic elephants showered Her with the sacred Akasha Ganga.
Maha Lakshmi manifested as a sixteen-year-old maiden. Subsequently, the Lord opens His eyes as the deities showered flowers from Heaven. The Lord embraced Goddess Maha Lakshmi and adorned Her with His garland.
With Maha Lakshmi’s absence from Vaikunta, the gods and sages were ecstatic over the Lord’s demonstrativeness. Consequently, they began a soul-stirring recital of Sri Lakshmi Hrudaya Stotra earnestly pleading with Sri Lakshmi to never abandon Vaikunta.
Since Maha Lakshmi’s illustrious emergence in Padmasarovaram, Shuka Maharshi and the gods plead with Her to manifest. She graciously obliges and manifests as Sarva Swatantra Veera Lakshmi in Tiruchanur. At Tiruchanur, all rituals are wholly devoted to the goddess regardless of the Lord’s idol being consecrated later.
So the deity at Tiruchanuris ‘shuddha sattva’ Lakshmi flanked by lotuses She emerged as seated in a golden lotus, hence the epithet Alarmelu Manga. Padmam (lotus) being Sri Lakshmi’s abode, She is hence mellifluously referred to as Padmavathi Devi.
Tiruchanur’s Padmavathi Devi is not Akasha Raja’s daughter, but Sri Lakshmi’s partial incarnation Padmavathi Devi instead. The goddess emerged in a golden lotus in Padmasarovaram, the modern day pillared hall in the temple tank, excavated by the Lord Himself.
One dip in the holy ‘pushkarini’ will dissipate one’s worries. Every Karthika Panchami, to commemorate the occasion of Her emergence, Lord Venkateswara accords temple honours to His divine consort.
Vyuha Lakshmi
Despite being Sarva Swatantra Veera Lakshmi, to remain inseparable, She also manifests as Vyuha Lakshmiin ‘shuddha sattva’ form on the Lord’s chest. Vyuha Lakshmi apprises the Lord that she shall eternally remain on His chest to be able to convey the devotees’ pleas ahead.
The consecration and worship of Vyuha-Lakshmi are meant to secure unbounded and eternal prosperity. In the daily worship of the Hill-God, after the Venkatesa Sahasranama Archana in the morning, this Vyuha-Lakshmi on the Lord’s chest is also worshipped reciting sixteen names of Sri Lakshmi (shodasha-nama) with the offering of Tulasi leaves after each name and also Goddess Padmavathi on the left chest is worshipped at the same time.
This image is specially worshipped during the main deity’s ceremonial bath on Fridays, as also during Makara- Sankranthi, when this Sri Lakshmi on the right chest of the Lord receives a bath with perfumed water.
Lord Venkateswara’s idol has a ‘Srivatsam’ mark on His right chest, which is a permanent part of the idol. It can be seen embossed, but only on Thursdays when the jewels are removed completely, except the Melchat Vastram and on Fridays, during Abhishekam and Nijapada Darshanam. The ‘darshan’ of Vakshasthala Lakshmi can be seen if one comes very near to Kulasekhara Padi and even from there also, one can only assume Her shape.
Only ‘archakas’ can see the image of Vakshasthala Lakshmi on the Lord’s divine chest. This Lakshmi is called Dvi-bhuja-Vyuha-Lakshmi in Vaikhanasa Samhithas. The presence of Lakshmi on the body of the Lord is responsible for the name Sri-Nivasa (the abode of Lakshmi) for Him. This image of Lakshmi is in the Agamas prescribed to be twoarmed and seated in the lotus posture. This form is called Vyuha-Lakshmi.
Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi
Along with Vyuha Lakshmi, the Lord departs for Tirumala to reunite with Goddess Padmavathi who wept uncontrollably upon reconciliation. Lord Venkateswara consoles Her and apprises of Her illustrious previous births.
To quell the separation from the Lord further, She manifests as Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi, unifying with Vyuha Lakshmi, the fifth and sixth manifestations of Ashta Lakshmi. Lord Venkateswara equally embraces His divine consorts Lakshmi and Padmavathi and bears them on His chest. The revered embodiment of Vyuha Lakshmi and Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi gets Srivari Abhishekam duly observed every Friday.
Except Tirumala, the Lord is customarily accompanied by His divine consorts in any Vaishnava temple. One can visit Tiruchanur to offer prayers to Goddess Maha Lakshmi. The Lord married Padmavathi Devi in Narayanavanam. In the southwest corner of the temple Goddess Padmavathi manifests as a radiant new bride and sets out only during the festivities and processions.
This is the contemporaneous exhaustive saga of the sublime Alarmelu Manga, Padmavathi, and Sri Lakshmi.
Article posted on Saptagiri Magazine by – Dr. Venkata Harshavardhan R.D.
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Kartika Brahmotsavams is a spectacular festival of Tiruchanur and Tirupati. Just as Tirumala Brahmotsavam ends with CHAKRA SNANAM, even Tiruchanur Kartika Brahmotsavam ends with a Chakrasnanam on the auspicious Panchami Teertha day known as ‘Panchami Theertham’.
Saare – From Tirumala to Tiruchanur
On this special day, “Saare” (an auspicious and devotional offering) comes from Tirumala Venkateswara Swamivaru to the Goddess Padmavathi. The movement of the divine ‘‘Saare’’ starts (Praramba Yaathra) at BRAHMA MUHURTHAM time in Tirumala and travels through ‘Mada Veedhis’.
Later on, this ‘‘Saare’’ travels through the steps and roads of Tirumala to Tirupati and again from Tirupati to Tiruchanur. This Saare’s Mugimpu Yatra (conclusion part) happens with its travel through four Tiruchanur Mada streets before it is offered to Goddess Padmavathi Ammavaru.
Indian Tradition – SAARE
Normally in India, after performing a wedding or marriage, the bride’s family sends a “SAARE’’ to the in-laws along with their daughter who enters her in-law’s place. This ‘Saare’ mainly consists of food items and gifts to family members and relatives of the bridegroom.
This ‘Saare’ has to do with the gifts meant for the son-in-law and the favourite things used by the daughter from her birth till the wedding day.
Ramayana in Thretha yuga also mentions ‘Mandhara’, the servant of Kaikeyi, who accompanies her to her in-law’s palace. This is one of the famous instances of this tradition.
Coming to the age-old ‘Tirumala Swamivari Saare’, many old aged priests and devotees opined that, this Saare consists of not only Jewellery, Silk Sarees, Turmeric, Saffron (Kumkuma), Traditional Chandan (Sandalwood), Flowers, Betelnuts, Betel leaves, Fruits, Sweets, Elaichi, Aroma oils or Scents, Mirror, Vinjamaras, Handheld fans, Koppu and Jada Kuchulu (hangings worn at the end of plaited hair) just to name a few.
Srivari Saare
These items in the ‘Srivari Saare’ represent the traditions to be followed by Indian girls, and women for the welfare of the family, the safety of society, and their personal “devotional and traditional safety” as well.
The following are some of the important Sanathana Dharma procedures to be followed of Hindu girls, women, and married men.
Wearing Turmeric
The application of turmeric to the face and body not only helps to give glory and glow but also protects the skin from bacteria, viruses, and fungal bodies because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic nature with its strong antioxidants inside.
Wearing Gold
Even a small amount of gold on the body activates some parts of the nervous system apart from the extension of prosperity which is evident from ancient medical scripts, the Puranas and Sastras.
Draping Sarees
The silk sarees with their strong ‘semi-conductor property’ connect the body with the “five elements” (Pancha Bhoothas) of mother nature and activate and energize the body. The current youth especially girls and women wearing ‘Jeans’ are said to face many problems related to health care.
It’s time for all of us to understand the importance of items in Saare and the message from Lord Venkateswara regarding the same.
Wearing Vermilion
The most important aspect to learn from Kumkuma (vermilion) used by Indians to keep it on the top of “Gnana Netra” (the place between two eyes) to protect, radiate, and energize the ‘third eye’ of the human being and attract the Gnana (Knowledge) and positive powers.
The colour red symbolizes the Goddess and Sun which predominantly appears in Kumkuma. The material in Kumkuma invites eight types of wealth, cosmic power and prosperity through the third eye or gnana netra of the person.
Tying the Hair
The Koppu (Hair Holding Flower like structure to keep the tips and ends of the hair or Jada Gantalu) is another important material-based message from the Saare or Lord Venkateswara to the women. All of us are familiar with the current wires or power cables. When you get in touch or contact the ends of the same when they are open, it is quite obvious that you will get an ‘electricity shock’.
Hope you remember the electrician closes the ends of these copper or metallic wires with plastic tape to stop the flow of electricity through the wires. Similarly, when girls and women with long and movable hair, that too when they are moving in public places, there is a possibility for their hair ends to get in touch with people with negative energy.
This will lead to the transfer of their positive power to others and take their negative energy in that place. Hence, the message from Koppu and Jada Gantalu from the Saare is “How to protect your positive powers and avoid getting negative energy?” by closing the tips or ends of your hair.
Balanced diet:
The importance of elaichi and fruits / dry fruits / prasadams etc. as a diet is well-known even in the modern world. Even in the past two years, every person has badly gone through the COVID pandemic in one way or another. At that time, a balanced diet like dry fruits etc plays a major role in our immune system.
Wearing flowers
Similarly, the role of flowers and aromatic materials in cleaning the airborne negative energies apart from igniting six out of ‘Eight Chakras’ of human bodies is evident from puranas, vedangas and sastras.
Conclusion
Finally, there is a message from Lord Venkateswara to the married man on what to inscribe and prescribe to his wife and daughters for the welfare and prosperity of the society and family. The same will spread the culture and legacy to the sons or boys of the family as “doing is believing”.
The objective of this post is not just to touch upon the material and ingredients of Tirumala Sri Vaari Saare to Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru during the Karthika Tiruchanur Brahmotsavams on Panchami Theertham Day, but also to express the significance of contents of the Saare to spread the prosperity and welfare to the Society, family and individual.
Goddess Padmavathi is the queen of Lord Srinivasa and enjoys a separate identity with equal status. The Goddess is inseparable and enjoys an equal position as she is a Purushakara or instrumental in protecting the devotees from the wrath of the Lord.
As the temple of Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru is as important as the Venkateswara Swami temple, pilgrims throng to this temple throughout the year and offer their prayers.
Laksha Kumkumarchana
According to the Hindu Sanatana Dharma, ‘Kumkum’ or vermilion is considered sacred, especially for married women, as it is applied by them over the forehead seeking the longevity of their husbands. It is also considered as the symbolic representation of Goddess Shakti, who is also revered as Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswathi, and Goddess Parvathi.
‘Laksha Kumkumarchana’ will be performed on a grand note at Sri Padmavathi Devi temple in Tiruchanur every year. This ritual is performed before the commencement of nine day ‘Karthika Brahmotsavams’.
So, before starting brahmotsavams or any mega religious event in a Hindu Goddess temple, the priests usually perform “Laksha Kumkumarchana” seeking the execution of the religious event smoothly and successfully by appeasing Mother Goddess with this unique ritual.
In the temple of Tiruchanoor, which happens to be the abode of Goddess Padmavathi Devi, the temple priests carried out “Laksha Kumkumarchana” from 7am till 12 noon to the processional deity of Goddess Padmavathi seated on a finely decked Asan in Mukha Mandapam located opposite Sri Krishna Swamy temple located within the main temple premises.
On this occasion, the processional deity of goddess Padmavathi will be seated on ‘Asan’ (platform) amidst the renditions of sacred chants and mellifluous hymns. The priests will chant the 1000 divine names of Goddesses during this fete.
The priests recited “Lakshmi Astottaram”, and “Lakshmi Sahasranamam” several hundred times and carried out “Laksha Kumkumarchana” with devotional fervour. Whenever they were reciting the multiple names of the Goddess, archana was done with vermilion to the processional deity. Hundreds of women devotees took part in this special ritual.
This ritual is considered as a prelude to Brahmotsavams appeasing Goddess for the successful conduct of mega Brahmotsavam.
The puja vidhi during Brahmotsavams are in the form of Chatusthanarchana (ritual).
Every day during the annual fete, the Chatusthanarchana will be performed twice, both in the morning and in the evening at Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple.
In the morning this ceremony is observed in Yagashala between 5 am to 6 am and 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
The archakas invoke
Sri Paravasudeva (Vaikuntavasa) in holy water,
Sri Mahalakshmi in Sacred Kumbham (kalasam),
Agni in Homam, sacred rice (Akshata) in Chaktrabja Mandalam and
Sriman Narayana, the Almighty manifests Himself in five distinct forms namely the Param, Vyuham, Vibhavam, Antaryami and Archa. In all these forms the Lord is always inseparably united with His divine consort Sri Mahalakshmi.
The Parabrahamam is identified only by the presence of the “Sri”, the Divine Mother.
The Vedas, the verses of the Alwars, the Itihasas, and the Puranas authored by the sages like Valmiki, Vyasa, and Parasara all established the divine couple as the ‘Paratatvam’. While praising the Lord, the Vedas identify him as the one who is “Sripati”. Likewise, while speaking of the Divine Mother, the Sri Suktam hails Her as “Vishnupatni”.
The Almighty has two kinds of determination namely Anugraham and Nigraham. He is undoubtedly an ocean of mercy, the protector of all. He also has the crucial role of establishing ‘dharma’ for which it is necessary to annihilate the demonic forces.
The benign Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi is the abode of unalloyed grace and mercy and has no intent of punishing even the worst sinners like Ravana or Kakasura.
“I pray to the goddess who being the consort of the Lord is with Him in all the acts of protecting the whole universe. She is the very personification of mercy and is incapable of the very thought of punishing anyone” says Swami Desikan in his stotra, Yathiraja Saptathi.
The Almighty is resplendent as Sriman Narayana in all His manifestations. In Srivaikunta, His permanent abode, He is the Lord of the Celestials and is worshipped by Nityasuris like Ananta, Garuda, Viswaksena, and Muktas who reach the land of bliss after liberation. In this Nitya Vibhuti, His permanent abode, He is ever present with His consort the Divine “Sri”.
This land of bliss is beyond the reach of mortals and even Devatas. When the Devatas want to approach the Lord, they do so in His abode in the Milky Ocean. The Lord is present with Sri Mahalakshmi reclining on the Adi Sesha here.
The Almighty in all His mercy comes down to the mortal world, His ‘Leela Vibhuti’, from time to time to protect the virtuous, annihilate demonic forces, and uphold ‘dharma.’ These incarnations are called the ‘Vibhava Avatharas’.
In all these appearances, the Divine Mother incarnates with Him in every ‘avathara.’ When He appeared as Lord Rama, the Goddess Srilakshmi appeared as Sita. When He incarnated as Lord Krishna, She appeared as Rukmini. The sage Parasara in his Vishnu Puranam shows that in every form the Lord assumes, Sri Mahalakshmi too assumes a form that is eminently suitable to His divine ‘leela’.
The Almighty is present within every object in His creation. The Paramatma’s presence within our soul is called ‘Antharyami’. This very minute manifestation too is in unison with His ‘Sri’.
All the above manifestations are beyond the reach of the human beings. Param and Vyuham cannot be attained with the physical body. ‘Vibhava Avatharas’ can be enjoyed only by those who lived in the times of the incarnation.
The Lord within the human beings can be realized only by great ‘yogis’ with immense spiritual strength. The form which is easiest to attain, infinitely merciful, and available always to all the seekers without any discrimination is the Archa (idol) form.
This Thirumeni is “Subhasrayam” meaning it is divine and can destroy the evil ‘karma’ of all who worship it and confer all boons. It is always available. The Lord is waiting for His devotees to come to Him.
In the Archa form, the Almighty in all temples is seen with His divine consort who is ever present in His chest as ‘Thirumarbu Lakshmi’.
The Lord’s holy chest is a temple for Her to reside both to be ever-present with Him and to be ever-available to bless His devotees. In some temples, she resides in exclusive shrines like ‘Thani Kovil Nachiyar’ like in Srirangam and Kanchipuram. In some temples, She resides with the Moola Moorthi as in Uppiliappan Kovil, Thirunaraiyur. In most temples, one finds Her as Ubhaya Nachiyars along with the ‘Utsavar’.
In Thiruvengadam (Tirumala) the most prominent among the Divya Desams the Lord is named Srinivasa as the Devi is inseparably wound up with Him. She showers grace as the ‘Thirumarbu Lakshmi’ and as Sridevi and Bhudevi in the Bhoga Archa. There is no separate shrine for the goddess within the temple on the Hills. The separate Sannidhi (Shrine) to the Alarmel Mangai
Thayar (Sri Padmavathi Devi) is at the base of Tirumala Hills in Alarmelmangapuram or Tiruchanur. This ‘kshetra’ has been widely spoken of in the Puranas like the Padma Puranam and the Varaha Puranam as the ‘avatara kshetra’ of the goddess. She is said to have emerged here in a golden lotus in the Padma Sarovaram, the temple tank when Lord Srinivasa performed penance and worshipped Her with divine golden lotus flowers.
This Pushkarini is compared with the celestial Milky Ocean where the Devi incarnated when the Lord churned it assuming a thousand arms to help the ‘devas’ get ‘amruta’ to empower them to fight with the ‘asuras.’ The task was so mighty that the Lord enticed the ‘asuras’ to participate for a share of ‘amruta.’ He assumed numerous forms to join both sides and also became a divine tortoise (Koormavatara) to support Mandara Hill from below.
The Divine Sri emerged from the churning Ocean and was bathed with golden pots from the heavenly waters carried by the clouds Pushkala, Avartaka which was showered by eight elephants. The Goddess rose from Her Padmasana, walked straight to the Lord and garlanded Him as all the Devas watched the extraordinary scene. What started as an exercise to procure ‘amruta’ for the Devas turned out to be a clever plot with a concealed plot for the Lord to be united with His consort.
The Devas got their ‘amruta’ while the Lord, the Universal Charmer got back His Devi who is also known by name ‘Amruta’. The incarnation of the Goddess Padmavathi Thayar in the Padma Sarovaram at Tiruchanur is a divine ‘leela’, very similar to the mind-boggling effort of churning an ocean with a mountain.
Lord Srinivasa performed ‘Tapas’ in this sacred ‘kshetra’ to be united with His consort.
Various Utsavams
At Tiruchanur, her ‘avatara sthalam,’ Goddess Padmavathi resides in the ‘archa’ form ever ready to shower Her benign grace on Her devotees. It has been an age- old tradition to worship the goddess before ascending the hills to secure ‘darshan’ of the Lord of Thiruvengadam.
All the rituals are performed according to the ‘Pancharatra Agama’ tradition in Tiruchanur. The Golden Vimanam in Tiruchanur is called ‘Shanthi Nilayam. This is a temple where the goddess enjoys a pre-eminent position and is hailed by the Agama Sastra as ‘Svatantra Veera Lakshmi’.
She enjoys all kinds of ‘utsavas’ (Nithyotsava, Pakshotsava, Masotsava, Samvatsarotsava and Pavitrotsava), Thirumanjanam on Fridays, Unjal Seva and daily Kalyanotsavam. During the annual Karthika Brahmotsavam, the Goddess comes out of the temple in various mounts like Chinna Sesha Vahanam, Pedda Sesha Vahanam, Garuda Vahanam, Hanumantha Vahanam, Gaja Vahanam, etc.
The Vahana Seva tells Her devotees that the celestial beings like Garuda and Sesha serve the Lord’s consort just as they serve the Lord. In the Brahmotsavams for the Padmavathi Thayar the Gaja Vahanam is the highlight just as Garuda Vahanam is special for the Lord.
This is because the elephant is regarded as the symbol of royalty, great wealth, and regal splendour. It is fitting that the goddess of wealth should ride the elephant. Moreover, the temple flag hoisted in the Dwajasthambham too is adorned with an elephant.
The goddess is present in many temples as Gaja Lakshmi with two elephants offering garlands with utmost devotion and reverence. The Puranas describe the story of Lord Indra’s elephant throwing and stamping Lakshmi Devi’s ‘prasadam’.
Since then, all elephants are atoning for the great sacrilege by devoted service to the Devi.
The glorious ‘darshan’ of the goddess Padmavathi Thayar, Her Thirumeni sparkles with the glow of gold and her holy face and eyes brim with grace. Her rich silk robes, exquisite ornaments and her huge floral garlands complete the picture of perfection.
The goddess is seated on a lotus flower and holds lotus flowers in Her hand. Unlike the Lord She carries no weapons as She is the personification of grace and mercy.
The Brahmotsavams of Sri Padmavathi Devi in this year will be conducted between 10th November 2023 to 18th November 2023. The grand festival will conclude with the Theerthavari on 18th November 2023 which is famous as ‘Panchami Theertham’ as it falls on Panchami Thithi of Suklapaksham, Karthik month to mark the holy ‘avatara’ of the goddess Padmavathi Thayar.
Auspicious Presents from Swami to Ammavaru
Lord Srinivasa sends an array of auspicious presents like turmeric, sandal paste, rich silks, dazzling ornaments, and garlands to greet His consort. All these offerings are brought from the Tirumala Hills by the officials, and priests and carried to Tiruchanur on an elephant. Lakhs of devotees pour into Tiruchanur to take a dip in the Padma Sarovar to celebrate the day joyously and receive the blessings of the Goddess.
The SVBC channel brings the spectacular ‘utsavam’ live to give ‘darshan’ to people all over the world and to shower the blessings of the goddess Padmavathi Devi on Her devotees forever.
Information Source – SAPTHAGIRI Magazine – Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams
Sundararaja Swamy is a Self-emerged God in the auspicious star Uttarabhadra in the Jyestha Masa of Lunar Calendar.
The main events of the Avatarotsavams are distributed over the three days beginning on the day with Stabhisha Nakshatra and ending on the day with Uttarabhadra Nakshatra (The Birth Star of Sri Sundararaja Swami) in the following manner
Avatarotsavams – First Day
Sahasranamarchana to Swami after Suprabhata Seva, Kalyanotsavam to the Utsava Murthi of Goddess Padmavati, Abhisheka to Sundararaja Swamy and finally in the evening Unjal Seva – are the events of the first Day.
While these are the events performed in the temple premises there will be a Celestial Ride in the Four Mada Streets by Sri Sundararaja Swami, Sri Devi, and Bhu Devi on the Pedda Sesha Vahana on the first day night.
Significance of Pedda Sesha Vahanam
Among all the Vahana sevas, the first one is the Pedda Sesha Vahana Seva. Pedda Seshavahana is adorned with different kinds of flowery garlands, electric lamp series, and other kinds of decorative items.
Being accompanied by the resonant Vedic recitations the Divine Mother Sri Devi and Bhu Devi and the Prime God of the Festival Sri Sundararaja Swami will bless the devotees in the four Mada streets.
All three idols are adorned with fragrant flowery garlands and different kinds of jewellery. The gracious glances of the three deities are to save the world from all calamities.
The majestic appearance of Pedda Sesha Vahana is highly pleasing with his Seven huge hoods.
The seven hoods of the Pedda Sesha have a philosophical interpretation according to which the seven prime causes of the world :
Mahat or the Universal Intelligence,
Ahankara (The Universal self) and
The five Subtle Elements Sabda – The Sound, Sparsa – The Touch, Rupa – The Color, Rasa – The Taste, and Gandha – The Smell are said to be the seven hoods.
The Pedda Sesha himself is said to have been the very form of Prakrti. The mounting of Sri Sundararaja Swami on Pedda Sesha is explained as the association of the Parama Purusha with Prakriti.
Soon the devotees see the Great God on the Pedda Sesha Vahanam, their minds are filled with great joy, and start reciting different kinds of stotrams.
Avatarotsavams – Second Day
Again on the second day, Sahasranamarchana after Suprabhata Seva to Sri Sundararaja Swami, Kalyanotsavam to Goddess Padmavati Devi, Abhisheka and Unjala Seva to Sri Sundararaja Swami amidst the Vedic chants and auspicious tunes and Nadaswaram and percussion are the events offered in the Mukhamandapa while in the first quarter of the night the celestial ride of Swami alone in the four Mada streets on Hanumad Vahana.
Significance of Hanumad Vahanam
Hanuman was the personification of the bhakti in the form of the most trusted and selfless service to the Lord in his incarnation as Sri Rama in Treta Yuga. No exaggeration is there to say that Lord Hanuman was the greatest devotee of Lord Sri Rama.
Hanuman the vehicle of Sri Rama in the great war between Rama and Ravana, is the heroic one who freed the sorrow of Sita.
He is the greatest among the monkeys.
He is the slayer of the demon Akshaya, the son of Ravana.
He is the one who trembled the entire city of Lanka with his valour.
His speed is equal to that of wind.
He is the most self-controlled celibate, the best among the wise and always stands in the forefront of Monkey-warrior troops.
On seeing such a great devotee of Sri Ramachandra everybody will surely get all kinds of virtues, will be free from grief, and attain the blessings of Sri Sundararaja Swami.
Avatarotsavams – Third Day
Earlier in the day abhisheskham is performed to the Moolavirat of Sri Sundararajaswami and Sri Padmavati Ammavaru after the Suprabhata and Sahasranamarchana. Special Kalyanotsavam is performed for Sri Padmavati Ammavaru between 10.30 am & noon.
A Thirumanjanam or Abhisheka is performed to utsava idols of Sri Sundara raja swami and his consorts Bhudevi and Sridevi with milk, curd, sandal paste, and a variety of flowers and fruits. Unjal Seva will follow Thirumanjanam later in the evening to the deity.
Sri Sundararajaswami (without Sridevi and Bhudevi) is again taken out in a celestial procession in full decoration of flowery garlands, rich gem-studded ornaments, and other decorations on the Garuda Vahana.
The Lord gives His Glorious darshan to all the devotees on the four Mada streets around the temple in the first quarter of the night.
Significance of Garudavahana
From the philosophic point of view, Garuda is the very form of the Vedas. So Mounting of Sri Sundararaja on Garuda suggests that the Vedas alone are capable of spreading the message of Vishnu tattva to all the ends of directions.
Garuda is the chief vehicle of Vishnu.
Garuda is the Sandals of Vishnu.
One who bears the Vishnu padukas on his head will attain Vaikuntha by the grace of the Great God.
May all the devotees participating in this Divine Festival be blessed with all kinds of gracious favours of Lord Sri Sundararaja Swami and His Consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi.
One gracious form of Sri Mahavishnu is that of Sri Sundara Raja Swamy.
Location
Sri Sundara Raja Swami’s temple is situated as a sub-shrine in the temple complex of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, the Consort of Sri Venkateswara of Alamelu Mangapuram, Tiruchanur.
This temple of Sri Sundararaja Swami is also known as the temple of Sri Varadaraja Swamy and the devotees can see Him along with his two Consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi.
Beautiful Ruler
As the name of God does suggest He is SUNDARARAJA, the Most Beautiful Ruler of the clusters of innumerable Galaxies.
This temple of Sundararaja Swami was believed to have been built during the 16th Century as the stone inscriptions of 1541 AD and 1547 AD make mention of the Rathotsava (The Car Festival) of Sri Varadaraja Swami and His Brahmotsavams respectively.
In standing posture
In the Sanctum Sanctorum of the temple, the main Deity Sundararaja Swamy or Varadaraja Swamy appears as Sthanaka Murti or as an idol in standing posture with four hands.
In the upper two hands, he holds Sudarsana Chakra and Panchajanya, and the lower right hand is in Varada (bestowing) mudra while the lower left hand is slipped down free with nothing held in it.
On His right side most beautiful Consort of Sri Devi and on His left with the same splendor His other Divine Spouse Bhu Devi grace all the devotees with pleasant looks.
Partitions
The temple of Sundara Raja Swamy has four partitions by names
Mahamantapa,
Mukhamantapa,
Antarala and
Garbhalaya (The Sanctum Sanctorum).
On the outer side of Mahamantapa, there is the Hall of Garuda (Garudamanta) where the idol of Garuda with widespread wings is facing the Deity Sundararaja Swami.
Worship of the god
All the procedures of worship in this temple are according to Pancharatra tradition. Thrice a day there is a regular worship (Archana) with Offerings (Naivedyam) to God. All the Anna Prasadams to God are brought from the Pakasala or the Cooking Chamber of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru.
Special Abisheka on Uttarabhadra
Sundararaja Swamy is believed to have Self Emerged in the auspicious star Uttarabhadra.
Hence every month on the day of Uttarabhadra there is a special Abhisheka, Archana, and Nivedana to the Utsava Murthi-s and at the end of the celebration, there will be Tiruchanur Village Festival (Gramotsava) where all the villagers of the surroundings gather together with great enthusiasm and devotion.
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