Sri Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy (Ugra – ferocious) with His two Consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi, as per temple tradition is also known as Venkatattu Raivar, Snapana Beram, Snapana Moorthy and Achyuta Beram.
To Snapana Beram (Bath Image) daily Abhishekams are not offered. These idols – Srinivasa Moorthy, Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi – are made of Panchaloha.
In the olden days it is believed were taken in procession during festival days. Once when these idols were taken in procession it is said some astonishing things, with unexpected consequences, had happened. From that day (1330 A.D) onwards these idols are not taken in procession on festival days.
But on two days in a year i.e., on Dwadasa Tiruaradhana (Krishna Ashtami) and Kartheeka Dwadasi (Kaisika or Ksheerabdhi Dwadasi) darbar is arranged for Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy. Even on these two days in the small hours of the day i.e., some hours before sunrise around 2.30 or 3 a.m. the darbar is arranged. It is said that the idols become more ferocious when the sun’s rays touch them. This continues even to this day.
On Dwadasa Aradhana night at about 10 O’clock, the idols of Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy along with His two Consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi will be brought from the Sanctum Sanctorum and will be placed in Ghanta Mandapam. After placing them there they are given holy bath and offerings. After completing all these rituals the idols will be taken back to Ananda Nilayam.
Click here for – 5 Idols of Tirupati Balaji – Pancha Berams
Karthika Dwadasi
On Kaisika Dwadasi Day (Karthika Dwadasi) after Suprabhatam and Thomala seva the Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy’s idol along with the idols of Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi will have Abhishekam and will be adored with a new set of silk robes, ornaments and garlands.
Then Sri Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy will be taken in a procession befitting an emperor. This procession will be taken out on the Maha Pradakshanam route. Archakas will take care to complete the procession and other connected rituals by 3 a.m.
After the procession, the idols will be brought to Ranga Mandapam. Here Sri Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy arrives riding on Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam. (The term ‘Sarvabhoopala’ means ‘Emperor of Entire Universe)
After traditional poojas and Harati, the idols will be taken back to Ananda Nilaya. This duplicate image of Sri Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy is made of panchalohas. This 20-inch-long idol stands on a lotus seat of 6 inches in height.
Similarly on the two sides of Sri Ugra Srinivasa Moorthy on a 5 inches high lotus seat 18 inches long Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi stand. These idols are considered to be the oldest idols among the idols that are taken out in procession.
A few services are rendered to Lord Sri Venkateshwara as Vaarotsavas once a week without fail.
Every day is a festival day in Tirumala. On each specific day, the Lord of Lords blesses His devotees in a specific ritual during the weekdays. These rituals are categorized as weekly pujas. A limited number of Devotees is allowed to take part in these weekly sevas on the issuance of a limited number of tickets.
Let us learn about some of the sevas conducted on different days of the week.
Monday – Visesha Puja (Special Worship)
There is mainly a Vishesha Puja (Special worship) every Monday at 6 am. It is conducted for Sri Malayappa Swamy along with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi in the Kalyana Mantapam (Marriage Pandal) of Sampangi Circumambulation. This seva offered every Monday commenced on April 8, 1991, and later became an arjitha seva (paid service).
After the second archana and second naivedyam in the Lord’s temple, Sri Malayappa Swami is taken to the Kalyana Mantapam with His consorts. After completion of Homas as per the Vaikhanasa Shastra, Tirumanjanam/Snapana (Oblution) is conducted for the Lord. The participants are given tirtha (holy water of the Lord) and prasadams.
The main deity is offered the Ashtadala Paada Padmaaraadhana service as the second archana every Tuesday at 6 am with 108 golden lotuses. This takes place for about 20 minutes.
It is interesting to note that a Muslim devotee from Hyderabad donated the required 108 golden lotuses to the Lord. It is now offered as a paid service. It is a feast to the eyes of the devotees.
Ashtadala Paada Padmaaraadhana Timings and Cost – Click here
Wednesday – Sahasra Kalashabhishekam (Oblution with 1000 Vessels)
Sahasra Kalashabhishekam is an important seva that takes place every Wednesday before the Golden Entrance. This is done to Sri Malayappa Swamy along with Sri Devi and Bhu Devi and Vishwaksena, the Chief Commander of the Lord. There is evidence to suggest that this has been taking place since 1511 AD or even earlier.
Vishwaksena, the Chief Commander of the Lord.
Only paid visitors can participate in the seva which takes place before the Golden Entrance. Later, they will be offered the darshan of the main deity and prasadams. It is believed that the participants will be cleansed of all the thousand types of sins.
Sahasra Kalashabhishekam Timings and Cost – Click here
Thursday – Tiruppavada Seva / Netra Darshanam (Sight of Lord’s Eyes)
The food offered every Thursday after the second archana is called Tiruppavada Seva or Annakoototsavam.
At 6 a.m. every Thursday, the main deity is stripped of all the ornaments. The namam (upright mark) of the Lord on His forehead is reduced in size to have a clear vision of the Lord’s Eyes.
Later, a big heap of tamarind rice (pulihora), jilebies and murukus is laid before the Lord at the Golden Entrance. It is decorated with flowers and offered directly to the main deity in the sanctum sanctorum. Vedic scholars recite the Vedas as well as Srinivasa Gadya (prose). Only paid visitors can participate in this service.
Later, all the devotees get the opportunity to see Tiruppavada Seva as well as Netra Darshana (the sight of the Lord’s Eyes). It is said that those who pay for the seva are purged of all their lapses related to food and get plenty of food down the generations.
Tomala Seva which takes place every Thursday in the evening is called Poolangi Seva (Garlanding Service). This takes place completely in solitude. Priests adorn the main deity from head to foot with the flowers brought by the Jiyyangars. The Lord appears as though he has worn a flower dress.
The visitors are enraptured by the sight of the Lord in Poolangi Seva emitting fragrance. The sight, it is said, burns all your sins and scents of the past lives.
The ablutions that take place to the main deity of Lord Sri Venkateshwara Swamy at 5 o’clock early in the morning on Friday is called Shukravaraabhishekam. It is said that this practice has been there since 614 AD. Bhagavad Ramanuja, it appears, offered Abhisheka on the occasion of instituting the golden Alamelu Manga image on the chest of the Lord. Abhishekam is done with the sacred waters of Akasha Ganga along with spices like civet, saffron and camphor for about an hour.
Later, Abhishekam is done with turmeric for Maha Lakshmi situated on the chest of the Lord. It is only during the Abhishekam that the devotees can see the original figure of Lord Srinivasa who manifested Himself for the sake of people in Kali Yuga at the instance of Brahma and other angels.
Later, Abhishekam is conducted for the golden Alumelu Manga clinging to the neck of the Lord. The devotees are greatly attracted to the seva. The Abhisheka Darshana comes to an end with the sprinkling of holy abhisheka water on the devotees which cleanses them from all sins and endows them with health and wealth.
After the couples have a glimpse of the Lord at the end of Abhisheka starts the Nija Pada Darshanam (the sight of the feet of the Lord). The paid devotees can participate in this seva and see the Holy Feet of the Lord without any covering. This is the only seva in which one can see the feet of the Lord.
At all other times, the feet of the Lord shine with golden coverings. According to the Puranas, the sight of the Lord’s feet purges the devotees of all their sins.
We have been mentioning the name of Vakula Devi in connection with the Swamy Vari kitchen. We have also read that she supervises the dishes prepared in the kitchen. Let us try to know more about Vakula Devi.
In the northeast direction of the kitchen, there is a small temple. There is a four-foot square platform. On that platform facing east, we will find the idol of Vakula Devi or Vakula Matha. She is also known as Vakula Malika. In our ancient scriptures, she is addressed as Lakshmi. Afterwards, people began to address her as Vakula Devi. Well, who is this Vakula Devi?
Vakula Matha Temple in Perur
who is this Vakula Devi?
As we all know Mother Yoshoda brought up Krishna right from His childhood days. Like eyelids which protect the eyes, she brought Him up. Though child Krishna killed many demons and rakshasas, Yoshoda could not know that her child was no other than Lord Vishnu. She was very much worried about His safety. She took extra care, not minding the inconveniences she came across, in bringing Him up.
But after killing His maternal uncle Kamsa, Krishna joined His biological parents Devaki and Vasudeva. Only under their care and direction most important things like His marriage etc., have taken place. Yashoda who brought Him up right from baby in arms stage, could not have the opportunity to perform His marriage.
Performing the marriage of their children gives immense, inexplicable happiness and satisfaction to the parents. Yashoda was deprived of this happiness and satisfaction. Omni science Krishna could read the mind of His foster mother Yashoda.
Dwapara Yuga –> Kaliyuga
He once consoled her saying: “Oh! Mother Yashoda, don’t worry, Krishna is Krishna only because of you and not despite you. I will give you an opportunity so that you can arrange and perform My marriage with your hands and initiative. Though not in this Dwapara Yuga, it will certainly happen in Kaliyuga. When I come down to Tirumala, to be known as Srinivasa, you will be there as Yogini. I will come to you and stay with you as your son. I once again appear as Krishna in Kaliyuga and stay in Tirumala which will be known as Venkatadri. Then you will arrange and perform My marriage”.
As per the boon granted by Krishna of Dwapara Yuga to Yashoda, she took the form of Vakula Devi in Kaliyuga.
Vakula Devi serving VarahaSwamy
Lord Vishnu after reaching Venkatadri got the patronage of Varahaswamy. This made Him settle down permanently on Venkatadri. Vakula Devi was there and was serving Varahaswamy. Sri Varahaswamy told her to look after Srinivasa, henceforth as a mother. As per the wish expressed by Varahaswamy Vakula Matha began to take care of Lord Srinivasa with sincerity and devotion.
By preparing food from a dark green grain ‘Shyamaka’ which was abundantly available on Tirumala Hills, she began to feed Lord Srinivasa. To add taste to the food she used to mix honey to it. It seems Lord Srinivasa used to relish honey-mixed food very much. In Ashtothara Shata Namavali (108 holy names) even to this day, the priests address Him at “Om Priyangu Priya Bhakshya Namaha”.
Even to this day, the people of Rayalaseema, Telangana and parts of Karnataka use this millet. In Telugu they say ‘Korralu’ and in Kannada Shyamalu.
Akasa Raju of that area had a daughter by name Padmavathi. Vakula Matha took initiative and arranged for Srinivasa’s marriage with Padmavathi. She spent her whole life serving Lord Srinivasa. As she happens to be a mother even to this day under her active and careful supervision dishes meant for Lord Srinivasa’s Naivedyam are prepared in the temple kitchen.
Lord Krishna even after appearing as Lord Srinivasa could not give up the habit of eating butter balls and curds with thick cream. In Dwapara yuga Yashoda fed Him whereas in Kaliyuga it is Vakula Matha who fed Him with the items he likes very much.
Daily during Suprabhata Seva Lord Srinivasa takes cow’s fresh milk and butter. Afterwards, He eats curd rice by the name ‘Matra’ served in a clay cullet. Lord Srinivasa enjoys repeating His childhood pranks and makes us to recall all those pranks of Dwapara Yuga.
Many Names of Vakula Matha
Vakula Matha of this temple kitchen has many names:
They call her
Madapalli (Mattappalli) Nachiyar,
Madapuli Nachiyar,
Pachana Lakshmi and
Paachaka Lakshmi.
Considering the kitchen supervision as the main activity of a housewife some even think that she is the queen of Venkateswara i.e., Sri Maha Lakshmi Herself. The personification of Lord’s Nandaka Sword Sri Tallapaka Annamaiah thinks that Alamelu Manga is Sri Maha Lakshmi.
Abhaya Mudra and Varada Mudra
Like Sri Maha Lakshmi even Alamelu Manga too has four hands. In her two raised hands she has two lotus flowers. In the lower right hand, the Abhaya Mudra is exhibited and the lower left-hand shows ‘Varada Mudra’.
Let us bow to Alamelu Manga the mother of mothers. Vande Jagan Maataram ! Vande Jaganmaataram!!
Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!
Offerings to Vakula Matha
Offerings are offered daily three times to Vakula Matha. She is offered sweet pongal. At the time of offering the Archakas take out the garland from the Lotus Feet of the Chief Idol and decorate the Vakula mata idol with that garland. After this Alamelu Manga’s Kheer is offered to Vakula Matha. This offering will be followed by Camphor harati.
Every Friday they perform Abhishekam and offer poojas. Similarly in Sravana masam during Vara Lakshmi Vratam and on Makara Sankranti day as well as the day that follows Makara Sankranti known as the ‘Kanuma’ festival, Vakula Matha gets Panchaamruta Abhishekam that too on a very grand scale.
Vakula Matha dedicated her life to the service of Lord Srinivasa. Every day she supervises the naivedyam items prepared in the temple kitchen and serves them to Lord Srinivasa. The leftovers, she will see that it is distributed to the devotees as Maha prasadam. She is making Lord Srinivasa happy and also all the devotees of Srinivasa happy.
Considering Her as Maha Lakshmi let us pray Her thus:
The term “Anandanilayam” means the source of spiritual pleasure. One can feel no thought about his home when the Vimanam from outside and the God within the shrines are seen. It is ‘Ananda’ indeed of a superior type.
This Ananda Nilaya Vimana is referred to at the end of King Sankha’s episode. The self-same Vimana is referred to and described to have been concealed from the view of the sages by the sway of our Lord’s maya. The sudden appearance and disappearance of such a colossal and wonderful structure as that of an effulgent Vimana in the firmament incited the curiosity of the sages who assembled there.
They revolved in their minds all memories about the wonderful Vimana and felt as though they had been transported to the world of wonders. The sages then resolved to observe rigorous austerities to invite the attention of Lord Srinivasa to favour them again with the sight of the Vimana which they witnessed.
Agastya who was chosen as the leader of sages strictly guided that Astaksharajapa (repeating the name of Narayana) was the surest and effective means to win the Lord’s favour towards the achievement of the desired object.
In the course of their completion of trance (a state of mystical absorption). They observed to their great astonishment the self-same vimana of the effulgence of the golden structure there on. Such a phenomenon in firmament towards the pushkarini of Lord Srinivasa caused horripilation and instilled awe and inspiration in the minds of the sages.
They observed the Lord blazing forthwith His divine ornaments in the middle with a halo around. The Lord’s face is prominent with His enrapturing smiles. Swami with Goddess Sridevi and Bhudevi on either side shedding lustre blesses the devotees with utmost affection and compassion. The pleasure that the sages desired transported them to the highest spiritual plane which they never enjoyed before or till then.
A Divine Power
The “Maya” has been incorporated to convey the sense of supernatural power to present wonderful objects (Acharya Karatva Sakti). The vedas and puranas closely follow evidence the fact that the term “Maya” conveys only the sense of divine wisdom and supernatural power to show the realities and not the unrealities which incite wonder in the minds of the spectators.
Anandanilayam is the effulgence of Lord Narayana or Srinivasa. The repetition of the Narayana mantra (hymn) or Govinda has a lot of effect in Tirumala.
As the sages worshipped the Lord by repeating the name “Om Namo Narayana” the same repetition by the Bhaktas at Tirumala will bring them all prosperity and happiness moreover those who recite Vishnu Sahasranama at Tirumala will be redeemed of all planetary bad effects.
This Anandanilayam is the abode for all those who came with different vows so that the Lord inside protects them and gives them as to what they want.
The Tirumala Ananda Nilayam of Lord Srinivasa is a “Vishnu Maya Kendram”. It means that the Lord with His magnetic pull attracts lakhs of Devotees and protects His Bhaktas. The very sight of Anandanilayam is to show the mercy of the Lord. A spiritual pleasure ever be experienced only in Tirumala Anandanilayam.
SRI ANJANEYA SWAMI – The Foremost Devotee of Lord Srinivasa at Tirumala
Sri Anjaneya Swami who is blessed by Lord Sri Rama in the previous Yuga for His devout services is now receiving worship from His devotees in Tirumala, the Kaliyuga Vaikunta. He gives His grand darshan in various postures in different places in Tirumala.
Sri Agnya Palaka Anjaneya
Lord Anjaneya Swami resides at Sri Ramulavari Meda as ‘Utsav Murthy’ in Tirumala temple. It is a good custom to cover our mouths with our hands while talking to elderly persons so that our saliva drops may not fall on them.
In the same manner, Lord Aagnyapaalaka (the Obedient Hanuman) stands before Lord Rama with His hand covering His mouth. Without spluttering, Lord Anjeneya wants to say ‘Yes, My Lord’ in obedience.
To perform this, He covers His mouth with His hand. So, He is known as the ‘Obedient Hanuman‘. It is the embodiment of Lord Anjaneya which obeys the orders of His Lord, Sri Rama. He plays an important role during Lord Rama’s coronation and the pujas performed for Lord Rama.
On the day of Sri Ramanavami also the ‘Obedient Hanuman’ will follow His Lord. If one worships the Obedient Hanuman, one will get good behaviour, knowledge, courage, health and prosperity.
According to the Scriptures, dharma protects those, who safeguard it. If the tree in our garden has to give fruits and shade, we have to nourish it with water and manure. Similarly, dharma flourishes only when we protect it properly.
The Hindu dharma is as ancient as time itself. Hinduism prescribes the ideal means for a peaceful and joyful worldly life, besides being dedicated to the service of God wholeheartedly. Our traditions and customs are as vast as the sky and as generous as Mother Earth.
Temples play a significant role in Hinduism. They are not only merely places of worship. They are the eternal symbols of our culture, tradition and history. The holy shrines sanctify our motherland. The temple of Lord Venkateswara stands unique. Tirumala is so sacred that Sri Ramanuja, the vaishnava preceptor climbed on his knees as he considered it sacrilegious to set foot on the holy Hills.
Thousands of pious devotees throng the Srivari temple every day with devotion. Unfortunately, many of them are ignorant of the customs and traditions to be observed while visiting Tirumala. Therefore, the Devasthanam is instructed from time to time to follow the rules and regulations strictly in Tirumala.
DEVOTEES COMING FOR SWAMI DARSHAN MUST FOLLOW THE BELOW GIVEN DRESS CODE :
Women: Saree with a blouse, Halfsaree, Punjabi Dress with Duppata or Chudidhar with Duppata.
Men: Paijama – Kurtha or Dhoti – Uttariyam.
Every devotee should enter the temple wearing clean, traditional clothes with Thirunamam. We visit the Srivari temple and offer worship to the Lord of Seven Hills to make our lives pure and divine. Therefore, it is our responsibility to maintain the pristine purity of the abode of Lord Srinivasa as long as we stay there. Purity of mind and body is essential to secure God’s Grace.
In this regard, TTD made it compulsory to wear traditional clothes, while participating in arjitha sevas and in Rs.300/- Special entry darshan. Men should wear kurtha, paijama and women should wear either sarees or salwar-kameez.
Traditional dresses are more convenient and comfortable. Besides, they maintain the decency and decorum of a place of worship unlike the Western sartorial fashion, which is odd and inappropriate. We shall be able to safeguard the sanctity of Tirumala by the way we conduct ourselves as devotees.
TTD sincerely appeal to the pilgrims to strictly observe the age-old customs and usage on their visit to the sacred Hills and help Devasthanams maintain the holiness of this great sacred place.
SRI ANJANEYA SWAMI – The Foremost Devotee of Lord Srinivasa at Tirumala
Sri Anjaneya Swami who is blessed by Lord Sri Rama in the previous Yuga for His devout services is now receiving worship from His devotees in Tirumala, the Kaliyuga Vaikunta. He gives His grand darshan in various postures in different places in Tirumala.
Sri AagnyaPaalaka Anjaneya
Lord Anjaneya Swami resides at Sri Ramulavari Meda as ‘Utsav murthy’ in Tirumala temple. It is a good custom to cover our mouths with our hands while talking to elderly persons so that our saliva drops may not fall on them.
In the same manner, Lord Aagnyapaalaka (the Obedient Hanuman) stands before Lord Rama with His hand covering His mouth. Without spluttering, Lord Anjeneya wants to say ‘Yes, My Lord’ in obedience.
To perform this, He covers His mouth with His hand. So, He is known as the ‘Obedient Hanuman‘. It is the embodiment of Lord Anjaneya which obeys the orders of His Lord, Sri Rama. He plays an important role during Lord Rama’s coronation and the pujas performed for Lord Rama.
On the day of Sri Ramanavami also the ‘Obedient Hanuman’ will follow His Lord. If one worships the Obedient Hanuman, one will get good behaviour, knowledge, courage, health and prosperity.
The Sanskrit word ‘Saptha’ refers to the number Seven. It is indicated in various names as –
7 days a week,
7 colours in a rainbow,
7 horses of the Sun God,
7 chakras including sahasrara in upasana,
7 swaras in music,
7 steps during marriage,
7 upper lokas,
7 lower lokas,
7 hills (Tirumala).
Moreover, the number 7 has a great connection with Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of Tirumala in many ways. Let us examine how it is.
Tirumala Kshetra is located amid a group of seven sacred hills called ‘Sapthagiri‘. In Venkatachala Mahatyam these seven hills are said as seven heads of Adisesha (the king of serpents).
The seven peaks or the heads are called with the names –
Seshadri
Vrisardri
Garudadri
Anjanadri
Vrishabhadri
Narayanadri
Venkatadri.
Hence Lord Venkateswara swami is also called – Edukondalavada Govinda (the resident of Seven Hills) and Saptagireesa Govinda (the king of Seven Hills).
Saturday
The seventh day of the week is Saturday. It is a very auspicious day for worshipping Lord Venkateswara. As per Vedic astrology, every day of the week is associated with a planet in the solar system. In that way, Shani (Saturn) is the Lord of Saturday.
Once Lord Venkateswara swami had taken a promise from Shani Bhagavan that he would never trouble his devotees. Hence the devotees worship Venkateswara swami on Saturdays with a lot of devotion and dedication to get rid of obstacles caused by Shani Bhagavan.
Saturdays – Month of Shravana
Among all Saturdays, Saturdays that come in the month of Shravana are very important because – in Shravana masam the full moon day occurs in Shravana star. Hence this month is called Shravana masam. Moreover, the Shravana star is the birth star of Sri Venkateswara swami.
This nakshatra comes under Makara rasi (Capricorn). The Lord of Makara rasi is Shani bhagavan (Saturn).The seven Saturdays vratam is also observed by some devotees during this month itself.
Tirumala Saturdays OR Vishnu Saturdays
The four Saturdays in the Tamil month of purattasi are also considered very auspicious for worshipping Lord Venkateswara. During this month the Sun will be in Virgo, the zodiac Sign ruled by Mercury. The Lord of Mercury is Vishnu, the God of wealth and prosperity.
Also, it is known from the legend that Lord Vishnu descended to this earth as Sri Venkateswara during the Tamil month purattasi itself. Hence these Saturdays are called Vishnu Saturdays or Tirumala Saturdays (Tirumala Shanivaralu in Telugu).
One very Saturday of purattasi month the devotees observe fasting and light a lamp (a lamp made of rice flour, jaggery and ghee) and do Govinda bhajans.
Later they offer the 7 favourable dishes
Sweet Pongal (jaggery rice),
hot pongal (pepper rice),
tamarind rice,
curd rice,
vada,
laddu,
sundal (boiled channa)
to Lord Venkateswara Swami for his divine blessings.
Celebrated for nine days
The seventh month of the Telugu calendar is called Aswayuja masam. Tirumala brahmotsavam is an annual festival performed to Lord Venkateswara Swami, celebrated for nine days every year during this month in such a manner that the utsavam should be concluded on Shravana nakshatra.
Of course, another brahmotsavam will also be organized at Tirumala when there will be an Adhikamasam (extra month) during Navarathri.
During this nine-day festival, Lord Malayappa swami (processional deity) along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi go in procession two times (morning and night) daily on vahanams.
Rathasapthami – Mini Brahmotsavam
Maghasuddha sapthami (the seventh day in the brighter phase of lunar cycle of Telugu month Magha) of every year is celebrated as Rathasapthami. It is symbolically represented in the form of Sun God Surya turning his Ratha (chariot), drawn by seven horses with Aruna as the charioteer towards the northern hemisphere in northeastern direction.
This day also marks the Birth of Surya and is hence celebrated as Surya Jayanthi. Based on this one-day, brahmotsavam called ‘Mini Brahmotsavam’ is organized at Tirumala. On this day Lord Malayappa swami will proceed on saptha (seven) Vahanams through the holy streets around the temple.
It is a big chance for the devotees to have the darshan of Sri Malayappa swami on seven vahanams in a single day.
Surya Prabha vahanam – Rathasaptami
Planets
In astrology, every planet is allotted a number. As per that seven is a Ketu number. Ketu is the planet of obstruction. The Lord of Ketu is Lord Ganesha. Soon we should worship Lord Ganesha to overcome the obstacles created by Ketu.
People believe that different incarnations taken in previous yugas by Sri Venkateswara Swami represent the different planets in their tattwa (nature). Hence, they worship the following incarnations to get relief from planetary troubles.
Avatars
Ketu-Matsyavatara,
Saturn-Koormavatara,
Rahu-Varahavatara,
Mars-Narasimhavatara,
Jupiter- Vamanavatara,
Venus-Parusuramavatara,
Sun- Ramavatara,
Moon-Krishnavatara,
Mercury – Kalki
is an avatar to be taken by Lord Venkateswara at the end of Kaliyuga.
Till then He resides on these seven hills in the form of Archamurthy (idol form) and protects the people from the troubles of Kali, a demon.
What a lucky number seven is! We too associate with Lord Venkateswara Swami in every possible way for his divine grace.
The Chief Idol – Sri Venkateswara Swamy, Tirumala (Tirupati)
The Self-Emerged Idol of Lord Venkateswara is standing on a golden lotus base. Have a good look at the Lotus Feet of Lord Venkateswara. He has silk robes. The dangling garlands are further beautifying the silk robes.
Near Lord’s naval there is a sword by the name of Nandaka Khadgam.
There is one waist belt made of gold with gems and diamonds studded.
The Blessing Hand is again studded with diamonds.
The Lord’s Hand on the Hip says that if you sincerely seek shelter with Me, I will see that it becomes child’s play for you to cross the ocean of mundane existence.
On His Chest, there is a Kausthubha Mani. He has many Navaratna Haras (necklaces) around His neck.
Sri Maha Lakshmi Who is seated near His Chest is also blessing devotees with Her Blessing Hand.
His consorts Bhoo Devi and Sri Devi too have costly necklaces. With Sacred Thread (Yagnopaveetam), bejewelled hands, and lengthy garlands of salagramas and Sankhu and Chakra, Lord Venkateswara is attracting devotees from the four corners of the world.
Charming Face
The charming face with an Alluring Smile on His Lips, smooth shining cheeks, white camphor dot on the chin, the chiselled nose, white religious marking on the forehead, the gems studded crown all these things make our Lord more attractive.
One will not know whether bejewelled God is beautifying the jewels or jewels are beautifying God. These jewels, diamonds, gems, precious stones etc., are donations of devotees donated at different times. One will not know what made them denote these jewels and why they preferred only this temple for those donations.
Let us meditate on this Ever Attractive Chief Idol of God by chanting: Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!
Every piece of jewellery has an absorbing story behind it. Each diamond narrates the sincere devotion of its selfless donor. The glitter of gems adorning the idol reveals at length the sacrifices the devotee would have made and the blessing he would have received from Sri Venkateswara Swamy – Lord of Seven Hillswhen the devotee was in distress.
The musical sound that bracelets make symbolically tells how benevolent the Lord is towards His devotees. The splendid shining of the crown is proof of burning down the sins of devotees, committed knowingly or unknowingly, before seeking shelter near the Lotus Feet of the Lord.
The Panchajanya (a conch shell) and the Sudarshan Chakra by giving clarian calls would have punished wicked people who did much harm to humanity.
Through the broad smile Sri Venkateswara Swamy is acknowledging the prayers offered by devotees who would have received eyesight, some lame people who would have successfully, by the Grace of God, climbed the hills, the deaf would have got back their lost hearing ability etc.,
Those who have won their long pending cases too would have thanked the Lord for His solicited help. We may not know all the beneficiaries. Only He knows them.
All devotees irrespective of their caste, creed, and sometimes even faith whether they are Indians or even foreigners would have equally received the blessings of Sri Venkateswara Swamy – Lord of Seven Hills. After receiving beneficial help from the Lord they would have contributed their mite. Some rich devotees might have contributed a portion of their profit.
Ordinary devotees always contribute a part of their hard-earned money. The devotees appeal to Him as
Aapada Mokkula Vada (one who removes all the obstacles)
Vaddikasula Vada (who collects even interest when the devotees fail to deposit the amount they would have promised to offer)
Apadbandhava (a friend of all those who are in distress) etc.,
However simple or complicated is your case, pray sincerely. He will come to your rescue at the right time. He will be by your side when others have ditched you. What He expects from His devotees is simple sincere devotion. Please have a good look at the Chief Idol – Sri Venkateswara Swamy.
Indeed, the thirst to see will not be quenched no matter how many times you visit the temple or how much time you spend in the Sanctum Sanctorum.
Once you come out of the Sanctum Sanctorum you feel you are a blessed person. But you will have a feeling that I saw only the Smiling Face or the Blessing Hand, glittering crown, or Koustubha near the Chest etc., I have not seen the Lotus Feet.
Every inch of the Chief Idol is so attractive that you will refuse to withdraw your eyes from that spot. Every time you visit the templeyou will have a feeling that the Lord is more and more alluring than your earlier visit.
Before trying to know more details about the Sanctum Sanctorum let us chant the holy name of the Lord: Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!
Self Emerged Sri Venkateswara Swamy – Tirumala Temple
BRAHMA STHANAM
The Self-Emerged Salagrama Moorthy of Lord Srinivasa is exactly at the centre of Sanctum Sanctorum. This location is known as ‘BRAHMA STHANAM’.
STHANAKA MOORTHY / STHANAKA VARAHA MOORTHY
Because of this, the Chief Idol is termed as ‘STHANAKA MOORTHY’. Because it is immovable, people call it ‘DHRUVA (PERMANENT) MOORTHY’ or ‘DHRUVA BERAM’ (Permanent idol or image).
Here He is not accompanied by His two Consorts. He has only VAKSHASTHALA (on the chest) LAKSHMI. Hence he gets the name of STHANAKA VARAHA MOORTHY.
Vakshasthala Maha Lakshmi
With Vakshasthala Maha Lakshmi, Sri Mahavishnu left His Celestial Abode Vykunttam and came down to Bhooloka and preferred to stay on TIRUMALA HILLS and valleys as a Self Emerged Salagrama Moorthy. All other idols that we find in this temple are later additions. For this reason, Tirumala has been mentioned as ‘EKA BERAM’ (only one idol) temple.
Four Hands
This Self-emerged Salagrama monolithic idol has four shoulders.
The upper right hand holds SUDARSHANA CHAKRA and
the left upper hand has PANCHAJANYA (conch shell).
Similarly lower right hand has ABHAYA MUDRA and
the lower LEFT HAND IS ON THE HIP.
On the Chest, we can see the insignia of LAKSHMI. The Idol appears leaning slightly towards the left. Looking through the corner of eyes with a bewitching smile on face, the Moorthy enthrals the devotees.
The Sankhu and Chakra that we see on the right and left hand respectively, it seems, were not there originally.
Maybe during Ramanujacharya’s time or after him, seeing that the Chief Idol is without any weapon, they would have added gold-plated copper plates to the Idol. This may be true. He is Mahavishnu with or without Sankhu and Chakra.
“Padmaavatheem Vishaalaakshim Bhagavaanaatmaa Vakshasi Ari Sankha Viheeno Asau Katinyastha Karottamaha Darshayan Paani naikena Dakshinena Vrishaakapihi Pada Padmam Suraa Aaraadhyam Gatim cha Paramaam Nrunaam Katinyastha Karenaapi Nija Padaabja Kaaminam Nrunaam Bhava Payoraasim Katidaghnam Pradanshyan Viraajathe Venkatesaha sam Pratyapi Ramaapathi”
-Venkatachala Maahaatmyam
As He has kind-hearted Sri Maha Lakshmi in His Chest, He discorded fearful Sankhu and Chakra. Therefore He has assumed a pleasing form to clear all mundane fears of humanity. This Ramapathi, the Lord of Venkatagiri is pleasing everyone by showering His countless blessings.
Thondaman getting Sankhu and Chakra
Earlier there took place a pitched battle between Thondaman and Sri Padmavathy’s brother Vasudas. It is said that Lord Venkateswara to whom devotees are more dear, had handed over His Sankhu and Chakra to Thondaman.
The Venkatachala Mahatmyam further says that after the battle, Lord Sri Venkateswara refused to take back His Sankhu and Chakra from Thondaman. As He had not received them, the Self Emerged Salagrama monolith idol is not having these two weapons of Sri Mahavishnu.
Apart from this according to Vykhanasa Agama Shastra, there is no hard and fast rule that all idols should have weapons. Some may or may not have weapons. As a prominent place is given to Sri Mahalakshmi near His Chest, undoubtedly proves that the Self Emerged Idol is that of Sri Mahavishnu only.
While entering through the main gateway people loudly chant the holy name of Lord Venkateswaraas Edukondalawada, Venkata Ramana Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!
Sankha Nidhi & Padma Nidhi
Stop for a while and look to your left and right while passing through the main gateway. You will find two panchaloha (Alloy of five metals) idols of 2 feet high. They are the two celestial security guards of Lord Venkateswara.
Sankhu Nidhi or Sankha Nidhi
The guard standing on the southern side i.e., to your right has two conch shells in His hands. He is Sankhu Nidhi.
Padma Nidhi
Similarly to your left i.e., in the northern direction, there stands the second guard. He holds two lotus flowers in his two hands. He is named as Padma (Lotus) Nidhi.
These two celestial security guards are there to protect Lord Venkateswara’s Treasury, which is full of nine gems.
Achyuta Deva Raya
Near the feet of these celestial guards, you will see six inches long idol of a king standing with folded hands. He is the Vijayanagara king by the name Achyuta Deva Raya. Most probably he would have installed the two statues of those celestial guards.
As per Agamashastra (the Temple Architecture), the statues of such security guards are installed on the two sides near the third entry door of the surrounding wall.
Enclosures
This installation at the main entry gate of the temple proves the fact that the first enclosure (Avarana) indicates Mukkoti (three crores) Pradakshana (circumambulation),
the second encloser as the Vimana (the upper dome of a temple over the sanctuary) pradakshanam and
the third (enclosure) as the Sampangi (Gold Flower) Pradakshanam. Let us bow to the celestial security guards and enter the temple premises.
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