Category: Tirumala

The sacred temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy in Tirumala hills is easily accessible by all modes of transport

Vyuha Lakshmi – The Most Compassionate

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Goddess Mahalakshmi is Vyuha Lakshmi

Goddess Mahalakshmi is Vyuha Lakshmi and Yoga Lakshmi. Vyuha- means a secret strategy, a divine scheme, a plan or a strategy. Lakshmi Devi reaching the hridaya sthana of Lord Vishnu happened secretly, very naturally. Their divine scheme is to protect the world just as parents care for their children.

And as a typical mother Vyuha Lakshmi protects us, her children in a very caring manner, taking our side and convincing Her consort not to punish harshly for the wrongs done by us – because She is compassion personified – ‘Kaarunya Vigraha’.

“Para”, “Vyuha”, “Vibhava”, “Antharyami”, and “Archa” are the five forms of the Lord as per agama shastra. Vyuha form exists in the Vedas and the Upanishads which contain the divine scheme, the plan of the whole creation, the relation between the creator and the creation, and the relation between the creation and the beings created.

The whole scheme of binding all this is called “Vyuha”. The entire process of creation is a divine Vyuha (strategy).

The primordial couple Sri Maha Vishnu and Sri Mahalakshmi have a strong ‘Sankalpa’ to rescue the ‘Samsara’ from sins and concomitant sufferings. Their hearts respond with ‘anukampa’ – compassion arising out of empathy towards their children, their creation.

Viraha Lakshmi –> Veera Lakshmi -> Vyuha Lakshmi

When Goddess Mahalakshmi left the seven hills of Tirumala and established herself at Tiruchanur as Sri Padmavathi Devi, she- came to be known as Swatantra Veera Lakshmi as per Vaishnava tradition. It is said that She is actually “Viraha Lakshmi” (viraha meaning ‘the state of feeling the pangs of separation’) as She was away from Her Lord – but in usage seemed to have become Veera Lakshmi.

Tiruchanur - Padmavathi Ammavaru
Tiruchanur – Padmavathi Ammavaru

Then She became “Vyuha Lakshmi” as She was lovingly placed on the bosom of Her Lord. This is done as a divine scheme, a plan by the Lord to have his consort forever on his bosom – and it was done secretly, very naturally, but not openly – only the two of them knew about it – the Lord who invited Her onto His bosom and Lakshmi Devi who was eager to reside there – that is why She is called ‘Vyuha Lakshmi’.

Since She is ‘Sri’ and is residing on His bosom, He became “Srinivasa”.

Vyuha Lakshmi in Tirumala

In the temple of Tirumala, Vyuha Lakshmi is found on the right side of the bosom of the self-manifested vigraha (icon) of Lord Sri Venkateswara and She is also seen consecrated in the form of a gold image which is hung to a gold chain that adorns the Dhruva Bera of Srivaru to the right side of the chest.

She will be seated in Padmasana posture with lower right and left hands in Abhaya and Varada pose, and the upper right and left hands holding her favourite lotuses, with a compassionate smiling face or with only two hands (dvibhuja) holding lotuses in both the hands.

Vyuha Lakshmi in Tirumala

Every morning as part of nitya aradhana, after the usual Thomala Seva and Koluvu, the deity of the Lord is worshipped with ‘Kesavadi Chaturvimshati Namavali’ (24 names of the Lord) and ‘Sri Venkateswara Sahasranamavali‘, offering Tulasi leaves at the lotus feet of the Lord.

Then the worship of Vyuhalakshmi follows with the chaturvimshati namavali’, the 24 names of Vyuhalakshmi from Varaha Puranam – and the beauty of that worship is that the Tulasi (basil) leaves offered to the lotus-feet of the Lord are again offered to both the consorts of the Lord, goddess Vyuhalakshmi and goddess Padmavathi devi present auspiciously on the Lord’s bosom.

24 names of Vyuha Lakshmi

The 24 powerful sacred names of Devi Vyuha Lakshmi are –

  • Sriyai namah,
  • Lokadhaatre namah,
  • Brahmamatre namah,
  • Padmanetrayai namah,
  • Padmamukhyai namah,
  • Prasannamukha padmayai namah,
  • Padmakantanyai namah,
  • Bilva vansthaayai namah,
  • Vishnu patnyai namah,
  • Vichitra kshomadhaarinyai namah,
  • Ritushronyai namah,
  • Pakvabilva phalaapeena tungasthanayai namah,
  • Suraktapadma karapaada talayai namah,
  • Shubhayai namah,
  • Suratnaagada keyura kaancheenoopura shobhitaayai namah,
  • Yaksha kardama samlipta sarvaangaayai namah,
  • Katakojwalayai namah,
  • Mangalyaabharana Chitramuktaaahaaryai vibhushitayai namah,
  • Taatankairava tantaisya shobhamaana mukhaambujaayai namah,
  • Padmahastayai namah,
  • Harivallabhayai namah,
  • Rugyajussaamaroopaayai namah,
  • Vidyaayai namah,
  • Abdhidaayai namah,
  • Sri Mahalakshmyai namah,
  • Sri Padmavatyai namah,
  • Sreem Shriyai namah

Vakshasthala Avasthana Stabakam

Sri Varaha Puranam has a beautiful Stabakam (hymn) called “Vakshasthala avasthana Stabakam”. The entire Stabakam pays glorious honour to Vakshasthala Lakshmi in 26 slokams. It explains about the story of how Mahalakshmi reached the bosom region of the Lord, and about all her compassionate attributes.

Devotees who chant Sri Lakshmi Sahasranama follow it with this beautiful sacred Stabakam or Sthavam.

“Aum sreem aum namah, paramalakshmyai Vishnu vaksha sthitaayai, Ramaayai, aasritha taarakaayai, namo vahnijaayai Sree Vyuhalakshmyai namo namah” is one of the slokas to be chanted to be graced by Sri Vyuha Lakshmi.

SRI VYUHA LAKSHMI MANTRAM

(Srivarahapurane Venkatachala Mahatmye Srivyuhalakshmi Mantra Stotranama Ekonatrinshat Adhyayah)

Dayaalola Taragjaakshee Poornachandra Nibhanana |
Jananee Sarvalokanam Mahalakshmihi Haripriyaa ||

Sarwapaapa haraasyaiva praarabdaswapi karmanah |
Samhrutautu kshamaasyaiva sarva sampat pradaayini ||

Tasyaah Vyuha Prabhedaastu Lakshmih Kirtirjayeti Cha |
Tatra yaa vyuhalakshmih saa mugdha karunya vigraha ||

Anaayaasena Saa Lakshmihi Sarvapaapa Pranasini |
Sarvaishwarya Prada Nityam Tasyah Mantra Midam Sruna ||

Vedadimaayai Matrecha Lakshmai Nathipadam Vadeth |
Parameti padham Choktwaa Lakshmaah Iti padam Tatah ||

Vishnu vaksha sthitaayai syaatmaya sri tarikaa tatah |
Vahnijayaantha mantroya mabheeshtardha suradrumah ||

Dvibhujaa Vyuhalakshmeehi Syaat Baddhapadmasana Priyaa
Srinivasaagja Madhyasthaa Sutaraam Keshavapriyaa ||

Tameva sharanam gachha sarvabhaavena satvaram |
Sarvasampatkarim devim sarva saubhagya daayineem ||

(Iti Srivarahapurane Venkatachala Mahatmye Srivyuhalakshmi Mantra Stotranama Ekonatrinshant adhyayah Sampoornam)

– Smt. Ambika Ananth

Recitation of Vedas and Divya Prabandham in Sri Vari Temple

Recitation of Vedas and Divya Prabandham in Sri Vari Temple

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Recitation of Vedas and Divya Prabandham in Tirumala Temple

According to Hindu Theology, there are fourteen worlds. All these fourteen worlds are one empire. For this empire, there is one emperor. All the living beings are His subjects. The empire is eternal and the emperor is also eternal. If there is an empire, an emperor and his subjects, there is to be a code of laws to run the empire by the emperor.

If the empire, emperor and laws are eternal then the ruler is the supreme being. The law He made is otherwise called as ‘Vedam’.

Akhila Bhuvana janmasthema Bhangadi Leele |
Vinata Vivdha Bhoota Vrata Rakshaika Deekshe |
Sruti Sirasi Videepte Brahmani Srinivase |
Bhavatu Mama Parasmin Semushee Bhakti Roopa ||

That supreme being is none other than Lord Srinivasa or Lord Venkateswara or Mahavishnu or Srimannarayana who has descended to this world of ours (Bhooloka) to bless us and save us from the clutches of Kalipurusha. The Vedas are the repositories of Lord Srimannarayana.

The Vedas consist of mantras that are in space at all times in the form of sound. The Tamil lexicons Pingalam, Chudamani etc. refer to God as the creator of Vedas (Veda mudalalwan).

Recitation of Vedas and Divya Prabandham

Chaturvedam – In Sri Vari Temple

In Srivari Temple all the Chaturvedam (Four Vedas and their branches) are recited every day. Vedam starts first during Suprabhatam when the archakas invoke the Lord at the locked golden entrance door (Bangaru Vakili).

Hari Om

They start by saying the popular mantra “Hari Om”. ‘Hari’ means Lord Vishnu and ‘Om’ is Pranava. To start any vedic recitation first the word “Hari Om” will be recited.

Om is a primordial sacred syllable, combined with Lord Hari produces a powerful sound vibration. It is a request call to Sri Hari that they are ready to enter the sanctum sanctorum. To recite Vedas also Hari Om is a must as it seeks permission from the Lord to recite. So first of all it is “Hari Om” the Vedic mantra is recited in the Srivari temple.

Then during Abhishekam to Sri Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy daily during Thomalaseva with Hari Om, Purusha suktam will be recited. The Purusha in the title of the Purushasukta refers to Paramapurusha or Purushothama or Srimannarayana in His Virat Swaroopam. The Purushasukta praises the Lord of the universe with all the Kalyanagunas (Auspicious qualities).

Bhoga Srinivasa murthy or Kautuka Beram
Bhoga Srinivasa murthy or Kautuka Beram

As the Vedas are the sound waves and breath of the Lord, it is followed in Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple also.

The four Vedas namely

  • (1) Krishna Yajurveda
  • (2) Rig Veda
  • (3) Samaveda
  • (4) Atharvana Veda

and other branches of the Vedas are recited throughout the day in Tirumala Srivari Temple.

The specialised branches in each veda especially in Krishna Yajurveda – Kramanu, Ghanam and Jata are grandly recited by the Vedic pundits. The Vedic pundits or Vedaparayanadars of TTD are well qualified to recite any of the above during parayanam inside the temple daily, during the processions of the Lord around Mada streets, during Adhyayanotsavam, during Abhishekam to Moolavar on Fridays and other days of importance like daily sahasra deepalankarana seva etc.

Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva
Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva

The Vedic recitation in Srivari Temple surely influences the Bhaktas, that the Vedas as waves of sound can always remain in the ether around them. It can therefore be gain said that the Vedas are timeless and eternal and occupy an important position as the Lord of Seven Hills is called as veda priya.

Nigamanta Maha Desika considers Vengadam Hill as Vedic Hill. The TTD is giving special attention to Vedic Heritage by establishing Veda patasalas and a Vedic university is also maintained for the spread of Vedic culture and Sanatana Dharma.

Alwars / Alvars

Lord Venkateswara is eulogised by the Tamil Alwars also. The Alwars were mystic saints who dived deep into the ocean of mysticism. They are twelve in number.

Archavatara or divine incarnations in the consecrated images and idols in temples is an important doctrine accepted by the Sri Vaishnavas or sects of Sri Vaishnavas of South India. Lord Vishnu has revealed Himself to five great rishis in the same way as he imported the Vedas to Lord Brahma.

The Agamas envisaged by the Lord describe the existence in five forms or statuses as follows

  • (1) Para
  • (2) Vyuha
  • (3) Antaryamin
  • (4) Vibhava
  • (5) Archa.

The others, namely para, vyuha Antaryamin Vibhava are not readily accessible compared to the Archavatara. The worship of God in archavatara sanctioned in the Agamas was greatly strengthened and popularised by the Alwars who were exemplars of Bhaktiyoga. They meditated on God in all His five forms as can be seen from the four thousand sacred verses or poems.

In Archa Roopa, the Alwars could see divinity face to face and go into rapture over the beauty of God in that form. The sacred verses contain references to 108 Vishnu shrines which the Alwars had visited in the course of the pilgrimage except Nammalwar, other Alwars had visited most of the places.

Festive image of Nammalvar
Festive image of Nammalvar

The great Alwars 12 in number are:

  • (1) Poigai Alwar
  • (2) Bhutattalwar
  • (3) Peyalwar
  • (4) Tirumazhisai Alwar
  • (5) Nammalwar
  • (6) Tirumangai Alwar
  • (7) Periyalwar
  • (8) Andal
  • (9) Madurakavi Alwar
  • (10) Tondaradipodi Alwar
  • (11) Kulasekhara Alwar
  • (12) Tiruppanalwar.

The above 12 Alwars have sung in praise of the Lord of the 108 Divyadesams (Sacred places) except Madhurakavi Alwar and Tondaradippodi Alwar. The other Ten alwars have sung in praise of Lord Srinivasa of Tirumala. There are 207 pasurams or verses or poems exclusively for Lord Srinivasa of Tirumala.

Goddess Padmavati Devi with Srinivasa

The Arulicheyal (The songs of the Mystics or pasurams) of Alwars are recited in Srivari Temple daily during morning Tomala Seva and evening Tomala Seva. During processions like Brahmotsavam and the procession during monthly birth star days, immediately after Abhishekam on Fridays except Dhanurmasam and other days of Snapana Tirumanjanam Neerattam will be recited for 24 days.

Prabandham or Alwar Divyaprabandham is otherwise called as equal to vedam. “Vedam Tamiz seyda Maran Sadagopan”. Sadagopan or Nammalwar has translated the four vedams into Tamil. To Lord Srinivasa, both Vedam and Dravida Prabandham are like two eyes to Him.

Scheme Parayana

The TTD is giving a lot of encouragement for the preservation of vedams and has recorded all the vedams in its studios and through the Vedic university it is widening its wings. Moreover, they appoint Vedic pundits almost all over India on “Scheme Parayana” giving them financial assistance and calling all of them once a year to have darshan and recite.

Divya Prabandha Ghoshti
Divya Prabandham Ghoshti

Project on Nalayira Divya Prabandham

The TTD again has made a project for the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. Under the Divya Prabandham Project, a special officer looks after the spread of Alwar’s Sri Sukti by calling Lecturers. During Dhanurmasam, hundreds of Pundits are appointed to give Lecture or Discourse on Andal’s Tiruppavai.

The SVBC also telecasts Alwar Sri Sukti Every day.

“Ozhivil Kalamellam udanaimanni”,
Vazhuvila Adimai seyyavendum naam
Thehzikuralaruvi Tiruvengaddathu
Ezilkoljyoti Enthaithandai, Thandai Thandaikke
– (Nammalwar Tiruvaimoli)

“We should render constant unremitting service at all times, places and circumstances to the Lord of Thiruvengadam noted for roaring streams and is the God of my ancestor and other ancestors and many more ancestors.

‘Arayikane vikate girum gaccha’ – Go to Venkatagiri to get prosperity” (Rigveda).

Anivara Asthanam at Tirumala – 2024

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Anivara Asthanam 2024

Every day is filled with festivity at Tirumala. There are many daily, weekly, monthly and yearly seva at Tirumala. Among them, Anivara Asthanam – the Annual budget festival is an annual ritual being performed to Lord Srinivasa at Tirumala.

Anivara Asthanam at Tirumala this year will be conducted on 16th July 2024

The traditional temple cleaning fete, Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam will be held as a prelude to the Anivara Asthanam. On this day, utsava idols of Sri Malayappa Swami and His consorts are brought on Sarvabhoopala Vahanam to the Golden threshold (Bangaru Vakili) along with the idol of Senadhipathi ‘Sri Viswaksena’. Special pujas, Prasadam and Kainkaryams are performed for them and also for the Main Deity simultaneously.

Pushpa Pallaki - Anivara Asthanam Tirumala

Then, the Executive Officer, Jeeyangars and other temple officials bring sacred silk clothes to be offered to the deities. As part of the Asthanam, a special flower palanquin is arranged in the evening. TTD Garden Department will take care of the flower palanquin.

Every year, they will decorate palanquins according to some theme like dasavatharas theme etc. The exquisite palanquin with decorated flowers feasts the eyes of the devotees. Participate in this ‘Pushpapallaki Seva’ and be blessed by the Lord.

Click here to know the Importance of Anivara Asthanam

The Grandeur of Tirumala Hills

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Tirumala Hills

Tirumala Hills are popularly known as the abode of Lord Sri Venkateswara. These hills are known as Kaliyuga Vaikuntha bestowing and showering the divine grace of Lord Srinivasa upon the devotees uninterruptedly.

The Geographical, Pauranic and Divine significance of these hills earn a perpetually grand place among all the mountains and mountain ranges of Great Bharat. Geographically these Tirumala hills are situated at Tirupati in the Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh and are a part Seshachalam hills range of Eastern Ghats.

Eastern Ghats

The extent of Eastern Ghats covers the states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and some of the parts of Karnataka along the eastern coast of Bharat. As described in the Grand Epic Srimad Ramayana of Valmiki these were known by the name Mahendra Giri, a grand and continuous range of mountains with one thousand peaks.

At the time of the marvellous leap of Hanuman across the ocean from Rameswaram to Lanka, these hills were broken into discrete sections of hills scattered in the said regions of Bharat having been pressed under the strong feet of the gigantic form of him. In these partitioned parts the great rivers Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri, adding picturesque beauty to nature, have been perennially flowing through these regions.

Inside Annadanam canteen - The Grandeur of Tirumala Hills

These Hills of Tirumala, being a part of Eastern ghats, have the inherited richness of flora and fauna, rare minerals and stones like limestone, bauxite and iron of these ghats.

Though the Tirumala Hills are presently said to have been covering 10.33 miles (26.75 km) in area the original extent of these hills as found in the Brahma Purana is 30 yojanas in length and 3 yojanas in width. A yojana is equal to 9 miles. So the length of the Seshachalam Hills range is 270 miles and the width is 27 miles.

Seven Hills

It is popularly known as the area of seven peaks namely

  1. Seshadri,
  2. Neeladri,
  3. Garudadri,
  4. Anjanadri,
  5. Vrushabhadri,
  6. Narayanadri and
  7. Venkatadri.

Hence the temple of Lord Srinivasa on the top of these hills is known as the Temple of Seven Hills.

The Seven Hills collection is just the visible part of this holy place. But as has been mentioned earlier this is a very long range of hills of 270 miles in length.

These hills have several other names like

  • Anjanadri,
  • Vrishadri,
  • Seshadri,
  • Garudachala,
  • Tirthadri,
  • Srinivasadri,
  • Chintamani Giri,
  • Vrushabhadri,
  • Varahadri,
  • Jnanadri,
  • Kanakachala,
  • Anandadri,
  • Niladri,
  • Sumeru Sikharachala,
  • Simhachala,
  • Vaikunthadri and
  • Pushkaradri,

Each of these names has its pauranic importance in the history of Tirumala Hills.

Tirupati Balaji - Lord Venkateswara Swamy Harathi

Vrushadri or Dharmagiri

As Anjana Devi, the mother of Anjaneya, did penance on these hills to obtain him as her son this mountain is called Anjanadri. The word Vrusha means Dharma. As this is the abode of Dharma this region is known as Vrushadri or Dharmagiri.

Seshadri / Seshachalam

Seshadri is a very significant name for several reasons. Sesha the great serpent has been serving Sri Mahavishnu in many ways. He became the bed of Vishnu in the Milky Ocean. With one hood he is fanning the God. With one hood, he held all the weapons of Vishnu. One of the hoods became the head pillow of the Great God. One hood became the pillow below the feet of Srinatha.

With several hoods, he is providing shadow to Sri Jagatpati. Still, he is not satisfied. Hence he told Vishnu that he wanted to become a Hill and requested Him to dwell upon him. Sripathi nodded his head acquired the form of Sri Venkateswara and settled on the top of it which is known as Anadanilaya.

Hence the main mountain peak of this range is known as Seshadri and the entire range of the mountains is also called Seshachalam.

Garudadri / Garudachalam

One of the peaks is called Garudadri for the reason that it, the sports mountain (Krida Parvataa) of Srinatha from the Vaikuntha, has been brought by Garuda to this hill range placed it here. The other name of Garudadri is Garudachala. Sixty-five thousand Tirthas (holy streams of water) flow on the peaks of these hills along the 270-mile length of this Seshachalam. Hence this is called Tirthadri.

As this is the abode of Srinivasa, the incarnation of Vishnu, this is called Srinivasadri.

Chintamani Giri / Vrishabhadri

Chintamani Giri is one of the divine names of this mountain just for the reason this fulfils all the desires of the devotees who ever visit Lord Srinivasa on this mountain. Chintamani is the divine Gem in the control of Indra which yields all kinds of fulfilment just by praying to it.

Hence this mountain is known by Chintamani Giri for its resemblance with the gem Chintamani in fulfilling the desires of the devotees. This is also called Vrishabhadri.

Vrushabhadri

Dharma in the form of Vrushabha (A Divine Bull) moves in this region. Hence this is called Vrushabhadri. Before the advent of Lord Srinivasa, this hill range was under the rule of The Svetha Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Srinivasa requested Varaha Swami to permit him to stay there. Varaha Swami permitted Him to stay forever. Hence this is called Varahadri.

Ananda Nilayam Tirumala
Ananda Nilayam – Tirumala

Jnanadri

Jnanadri is the name attained by the Ananda Nilaya part of these hills for the reason that the devotees who visit these hills with great devotion attain the essential knowledge for ultimate Moksha. Once this mountain was full of gold. Hence this is called Kanakachala.

This is the place of inexplicable bliss and an eternal source of salvation. Hence this is called Anandadri. As Srinivasa Swami was served by Niladevi on this mountain back this is called Niladri. Once a Brahmin named Narayana did a great penance on this mountain. So this is called Narayanadri.

Sumeru Sikharachala – Venkata Giri

Sumeru Sikharachala is a very significant one of all names of this mountain range. According to the scriptures and Brahma Purana, Venkata, the son of Sumeru was brought here by Garuda. The word Venkata, being the dwelling place of Lord Sri Venkateswara, became meaningful in two ways.

  1. Vem- Sins Kata – annihilates. As this annihilates all the sins of the devotees this is called Venkata Giri.
  2. Vem is the syllable of Nectar (Eternality). Kata is the suffix representing Wealth.

This mountain is the source of Nectar (Eternality) and Wealth called Venkata Giri. As this mountain is the offspring of Sumeru this is called Sumeru Sikharachala. Having been brought by Garuda this is placed on the banks of the river Suvarnamukhi.

Simhachala or Simhasaila

Simhachala or Simhasaila is another name for this mountain because Lord Nrusimha swami made this his abode for some time while gracing Prahlada after the slaughter of Hiranyakasipu.

Kaliyuga Vaikunta / Vaikuntadri

Vaikunthadri is one of the finest names of this mountain. According to this, Lord Srinivasa or Sri Venkateswara Swami or Balaji the incarnation of Sri Mahavishnu took a vow to permanently stay here till the end of Kaliyuga having left his original home Vaikuntha.

Hence this Tirumala is known as Kaliyuga Vaikunta or Vaikuntadri. One who gets the Darshan of Lord Sri Venkateswara and who takes a holy dip in the Swamipushkarini is assured to have a permanent place in Vaikuntha.

Final Word

In this manner, this great range of mountains which is not a small one has been worshipped with great devotion by all devotees as the very form of lord Sri Venkateswara. Every devotee needs to visit the Large range of mountains as depicted in the Brahma Purana.

Click here for the Temple location

Holy Waterfalls (Theertham) to be visited in Tirumala

Holy Waterfalls (Theertham) to be visited in Tirumala

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Theerthams (Holy Waterfalls) in Tirumala

Tirumala shrine is a source of many holy waterfalls (Theertham/ Teertham). These are the sacred places where many sages undertook penance and had a glimpse of the Lord directly. They remove all sorts of sins. Let us try to know about them in brief.

Let us visit them, absolve ourselves of all our sins and accrue merits.

Akasha Ganga / Akasa Ganga

It is two miles away from the Holy Lake of the Lord towards the north. In the past, Anjana Devi undertook penance here and obtained Anjaneya as the son. Hence, it is called Anjanadri. A Brahmin named Ramanuja did penance here and realised the presence of Lord Venkateswara Swami.

Akasha Ganga or Akasa Ganga - Theerthams (Holy Waterfalls) in Tirumala 

A holy dip in these waters on the Full Moon day of Mesha month with Chitta as the ruling star, results in liberation. A Brahmin who developed a donkey’s complexion got rid of it in the past due to a holy dip in these waters. There is a bus facility to this place. We can visit it on any day of the week. Vaishnava priests draw two vessels of this holy water every day for the Lord’s anointing ceremony (Friday Abhisekam).

Gogarbha Theertham (Pandava Theertham)

There is Gogarbha Teertham three kilometres away from Tirumala temple towards the North. It resembles a cow’s womb where several sages undertook penance. The Pandavas during their exile in the forest spent some of their time here and served Lord Srinivasa. Hence, it is known as Pandava Teertham.

Gogarbha Theertham (Pandava Theertham)

There are statues of Pandavas in this cave. Tirumala’s guardian angel Rudra is here in the form of a big boulder. There will be an anointing ceremony for this Rudra on the day of Sivaratri every year with namaka, chamaka hymns. In the recent past, Malayala Swami undertook penance here for some time.

Papa Vinashanam

There is Papa Vinashanam water-fall 3 miles away towards the north of the temple. Holy dip in this water and sipping a little bit of it will absolve us of all our sins. Dridhamati who turned an eagle due to his sins attained liberation after bathing in these waters. A Brahmin was freed of a priest’s ghost (Brahma rakshasi). Bhadramati became rich by drinking this water.

Papa Vinashanam - Theerthams (Holy Waterfalls) in Tirumala 

The best way is to take a holy dip in it on the seventh day of Ashwayuja month during a Sunday joined by the Uttarashadha ruling star or on the twelfth day with the Uttarabhadra ruling star. Pilgrims can visit this on any day. There is a bus facility to this waterfall.

click here for the Google Maps location.

Jabali Theertham

There is Jabali theertham in the beautiful valley two miles away from the Holy Lake towards its north. Since Sage Jabali undertook penance here, it has become popular as Jabali Teertham. In the past, a Brahmin named Durachara was evicted of a priest’s ghost with a holy dip in it.

Jabali theertham / Jabali teeertham / Japali theertham

Agastya undertook penance here for some time and realised the presence of Lord Venkateswara Swami. There is an ancient Anjaneya Swami temple here run under the auspices of the Mahant Monastery. There are Sithamma Teertham and Dhriva Teertham nearby.

One can go by bus on the way from Tirumala to Papa Vinashanam to this place by walking for a mile.

click here for the Google Maps location.

Vaikuntha Teertham / Vaikuntha Theertham

There is a cave two miles away from the Holy Lake of the Lord towards the north-east. It is called Vaikuntha Cave and the water getting forth from here is called Vaikuntha Teertham. When Lord Srirama visited this place along with the monkey legion, the monkeys saw a big city and Lord Sri Maha Vishnu in this cave.

When they came out frightened, the cave was closed. Coming to know of it, Srirama told them that it was a heaven on the earth where Lord Vishnu moved about and they were lucky to get his divine darshan. There is no proper road to this place.

Chakra Teertham (Natural Rock Arch)

There is Chakra Teertham two miles towards the north-west of the main temple. There is a natural rock arch of 250 crore years old here and Chakra teertha a hundred feet away by its side. It appears the Lord ordered God Sudarshana to protect his devotee undertaking penance there.

Chakra Teertha Mukkoti or Chakra Theertham

A Brahmin named Sundara from Srirangam was relieved of his demonhood after bathing in these waters. Chakra Teertha Mukkoti is celebrated on the twelfth day of dark fortnight of Karthika. On that day, the priests from Tirumala go to this place to perform anointing ceremony, worship and offering of food to Sudarshana and Narasimha Swami.

Those who visit the Chakra teertham can also visit the nearby natural rock arch.

Sri Ramakrishna Theertham

Ramakrishna Teertham is 6 miles away towards the north of the main temple. In the past, sages Krishna and Ramakrishna performed penance here one after the other and realised the presence of the Lord and hence, it is called Ramakrishna Teertham.

Ramakrishna Theertham

On the Full Moon day of Makara masa with Pushya ruling star, Tirumala temple priests go over there to perform an anointing ceremony and worship Srirama and Krishna. Pilgrims can go by bus up to Papa Vinashanam and walk to the teertham.

Kumaradhara Teertham

This is six miles away from the Lord’s temple towards the north. We can go by bus up to Papa Vinashanam and walk to the place. A disease-ridden old man, it appears, turned a young man after bathing in these holy waters. Hence, it got the appellation of Kumaradhara.

Kumaradhara-Theertha-Mukkoti

After killing Tarakasura, Kumara Swami was afflicted by the sin of killing a Brahmin. He was relieved of it by undertaking penance in Kumaradhara theertham. A holy dip in this teertham on the Full Moon day of Magha month is quite rewarding.

Tumburu Teertham (Ghona Teertham)

It is situated around ten miles away from the Lord’s temple towards its north. It is also called Ghona theertham or Tumba theertham. Sage Tumburu and an atheist Sarvabaddha bathed in this theertham and attained ascetic perfection and liberation. This theertha mukkoti is held on the Full Moon day of Phalguna month. Thousands of devotees visit it on this day.

Tumburu Theertham (Ghona Theertham) or Tumburu Teertham (Ghona Teertham)

One can go by bus up to Papa Vinashanam and then walk to this place for seven miles. People are allowed to this theertham only on this day. In the cave nearby, 300 years ago Tarigonda Vengamamba and later Malayala Swami undertook penance.

Final Word – Pushkaradri

Besides the above, there are a number of teerthas and lakes on the slopes of Tirumala Hills like Jarahara teertham, Phalguni teertham, Sanakasanandana teertham, Kayarasayana teertham, Deva teertham, Asthi Sarovara teertham, Kataha teertham, Sesha teertham, Sankha teertham, etc. That is why, the Venkatachalam is also called “Pushkaradri”.

Vasanthotsavam in Tirumala - 3 day Utsavam

Vasanthotsavam in Tirumala – 3 day Utsavam

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Everything you need to know about Vasanthotsavam

In a year, many utsavams are celebrated according to Vaikanasa agama, in Tirumala. Every celebration has its importance and significance besides its glory. One of such utsavam is Vasanthotsavam.

After the completion of the Sri Padmavathi Srinivasa Parinaya festival, Vasanthotsavam is being celebrated.

Vasanthotsavam is the combination of 2 words – “Vasantha” (Spring season) and “Utsavam” (festival).

A view of Vasanthotsavam at Tirumala

Arjita Vasanthotsavam

Arjita Vasanthotsavam is also conducted daily as an abridged version of the Vasanthotsavam. Sri Malayappa swami and His consorts – Sridevi and Bhudevi are being seated in single (Eka) golden asanam, to take a holy bath and listen to the Veda mantras.

Vasanthotsavam mandapam

The festival’s highlight is that Lord Malayappa swami and his Consorts are given an aromatic bath, which is believed to give a soothing relief to the deities from the scorching Sun. Abhishekam – specifically called Snapana Thirumanjanam (Holy bath), is performed to the utsava murthi and his consorts on all three days in the Vasanthotsavam mandapam.

The Vasantha mandapam is decorated with not just garlands, but a massive green canopy made out of grapes, apples, sweet lemons, bananas, pineapple and many more varieties spread over the space giving cool shade over the utsava deities mused the devotees, sparkled with sweet smell of green fruits and flavour of aromatic flowers.

The very objective is of this display that Lord Venkateswara is very close to nature and the rituals were performed in natural surroundings which provides an aesthetic feel to devotees.

Starting the period of Achyutaraya

The start of this utsavam (festival) in Tirumala is recorded during the period of Achyutaraya in1460’s. The festival was started with the fund of 3000 narpanam contributed by Periya Solai, the son of the accountant in the temple.

The three-day annual fete used to be carried out at the Vasantha Mandapam, an ancient structure built by the Vijayanagara rulers to perform the Vasanthotsavam. But the old one was demolished as part of the renovation of the temple surroundings in 2006. The new venue — Vaibhavotsava Mandapam — is situated in front of the main temple and this renovated mandapam can accommodate 1200 people at a go.

Ankurarpanam pooja

The festival starts with ankurarpanam pooja (sowing the nine kinds of seeds) ceremony. One day before the start of the Vasanthotsavam festival, punya vachanam (purificatory rites), vaasthu santhi (worship of deity and lord of nature and their elements and natural forces as well as Lord and deity of directions and environment) and sacred consecration rituals are performed by the temple priests.

Vasanthotsavam – First Day

On the first day, Utsava Moorthy Sri Malayappa Swamy with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi are being taken in procession through West Mada Street to Vasantha Mandapam and is seated on golden asthanam.

Snapana Tirumanjanam (Snapana Mandapam) / Snapana Thirumanjanam
Snapana Thirumanjanam

Snapana Thirumanjanam

Rituals like Snapana Thirumanjanam are being conducted with special samarpana (offerings) to Lord Malayappa swamy and his two divine consorts in the presence of Jeeyar Swamis.

Pancha Suktha Veda mantras

The archakas and Veda pundits chanted Pancha Suktha Veda mantras consists

  • Purusha Suktham,
  • Narayana Suktham,
  • Sri Suktam,
  • Bhu Suktam and Neela Suktam
  • and some parts of Upanishads and Arulicheyal,
  • Periyalvar Neeraatta pasurams,

while rendering sacred baths to Lord Sri Malayappa Swamy, Sri Devi and Bhu Devi. The deities were garlanded with Thulasi mala.

Then the deities were rendered Nakshathra harathi, Kumbha harathi and lastly special Karpoora harati. A golden sieve with thousand apertures is being held over by archakas and the mantrajaba holy kalasa water poured called Sahasrakalasaabhishekam.

After the aromatic bath, the deities are taken in procession through mada streets to reach Swami Sri Ramanuja Sannithi. There, Nithya utsavam is performed. While reaching the Bangaru vaasal (Golden entrance) inside the temple, a Special ornament is being offered to Lord Malayappa Swami. Mangala Vadyam and annamacharyas keerthanas are also rendered.

Vasanthotsavam – Second Day

On the second day morning, Lord Malayappaswami with Sridevi and Boothevi are taken in Golden Chariot to round four Mada Streets and arrive at Vasanthotsava mandapam. There as usual Snapana thirumanjanam (Thirumanjanam on special occasions only) is being offered with devotional fervour. Then madaveethi procession takes place to give Darshan to his devotees, who are eagerly awaiting.

VASANTHOTSAVAM day 3

Vasanthotsavam – Third day

On the third day, abhishekam is performed to the idols of Lord Rama and Krishna with their consorts Sita along with Lakshmana, Hanuman and consort of Lord Krishna Rukminidevi are also placed at the Vasantha Mandapam on their decorated ornamented aastanam (platform).

4 great epochs

The four great epochs are Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapar Yuga, and Kali Yuga. In the Treta Yuga people still remained righteous and adhered to moral ways of life. Lord Rama of the epic poem the Ramayana lived in Treta Yuga.

Lord Rama – Treta Yuga

Lord Rama represents treta yuga, whose principles are Ideal friendship, promising rule, sense of protecting the good and sense of liberality. The mother Sita has also virtuous qualities like chastity, patience, forbearance, the ideal organization of ‘dharma’.

Lord Krishna – Dwapara Yuga

Lord Krishna to represent Dwapara yuga, who taught the Great Bhagavat Gita to restore men, who had lost all knowledge of the intelligence and bliss bodies.

Lord Venkateswara – Kaliyuga

Lord Malayappaswami is to save the people in the present kaliyuga. To mark this, the holy bath is performed on all three deities with Vedic chanting. Later the consecrated idols are taken in a procession in the evening. In front of Sri Ramanuja Sannithi, they are offered asthanam and Nithya utsava.

Procession on Mada Streets - Vasanthotsavam in Tirumala
Procession on Mada Streets – Vasanthotsavam in Tirumala

Prabhandams

In Vasanthotsavam there is no Veethi Ghosti. (Alvars hymns rendering in street procession). However, Siriya Thirumadal is alone recited. Among the six prabhandams of Thirumangai alwar, the two well-known Siriya and Periya Thirumadals are unique for the display of “Nayaka Naayaki Bhavam”.

In this prabhandam Alwar seeks God’s intervention not being able to bear the separation from his only aim in life to reach and serve God. The chanting of Siriya Thirumadal starts at Mahadwaram, where the sathumurai (concluding the Prabhandam) is being done on other occasions and ends at Ramanuja sannithi.

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Traditional Dress Code – Tirumala

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Dress Code – Tirumala

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.

Traditional Dress Code - 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.

Glory of Seven Hills

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Let us know the importance and glory of Seven Hills. 

Five Forms

As per our scriptures, Lord Sriman Narayana is worshipped in five forms.

PARARUPA

The form of the Lord with His Divine Consorts in Sri Vaikuntam, being worshipped by the residents there, namely Nityas (Permanent residents) and Muktas (The Liberated Souls);

VYUHA

The form put on by the Lord in Ksheerabdhi- the ocean of Milk, where the demigods like Brahma and other devas can approach Him and get their wishes granted;

VIBHAVA

The form of the Lord while He takes incarnations such as Rama, Krishna etc. He incarnates in the world, to protect the good ones, remove the evil-doers and establish the Sanatana Dharma. This form could be witnessed by those who have the opportunity to live at that time of incarnation.

HARDA-ANTARYAMI

The form with which the Lord dwells in everyone’s heart. Only those practising Yoga can realize Him when blessed.

ARCHA

The form of the Lord is enshrined in temples consecrated by rituals prescribed by our scriptures. Here the Lord dwells with all His powers, which He enjoys in all other forms. Here the Lord is seen with all human eyes and worshipped. This form of Archa is easy to comprehend by anybody and everybody, as it is easily approachable and kept in mind for devotional purposes.

Tirupati Balaji - Lord Venkateswara Swamy Harathi

Among the Archa forms, 108 such forms have a special status being graded as Divyadesams, glorified by Alwars, twelve in number, sacred saints who extolled Him and the kshetras, presided by Him.

4 Special DivyaDesams

Among the 108 Divyadesams, four occupy special places, as a part of pilgrimage. They are

  1. Srirangam,
  2. Tirumala,
  3. Kanchipuram and
  4. Tirunarayanapuram (Melkote- in Karnataka).

As it is glorified “Kalou Venkatanaayaka”, Lord Sri Venkateswara of Tirumala is the much sought-after deity in Kaliyuga.

Every day thousands and thousands of devotees throng Tirumala for His Govinda Darshan and get His blessings. The chanting of “Yedu Kondalavada Venkataramana Govindaa Govinda” reverberates in all places in Tirumala. It even rings in our ears even after we reach our homes at far-off places.

The presiding deity of Tirumala, Lord Sri Venkateswara poses in the standing form, among Seven Hills and gives darshan to devotees night and day without any rest whatsoever. Not only the Lord, but even the Hills situated around can give us Moksha- Salvation to devotees in due course, as per our scriptures.

Tirumala Hills - Seven Hills

Seven Hills

The seven hills situated around Tirumala are Vrushabhadri, Anjanadri, Vrushadri, Garudadri, Seshadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri.

VRUSHABHADRI

Once, there lived an Asura called Vrushabasura who lived near Thumburutheertham in Tirumala. He used to do great penance with full austerity. Lord Siva, in due course, appeared before him and directed him to ask any boon. Asura, with his demonic thoughts, wanted that he would like to fight with Lord Siva Himself. Siva obliged him.

There was a fierce battle and the Asura was defeated. However, he requested Lord Siva to name that place after him. Lord Siva blessed him accordingly and that is why, that hill has come to be known as ‘Vrushabhadri‘.

ANJANADRI

Kesari, chieftain of Vanaras and his wife is Anjana Devi. For a long time, they were not blessed with any child. Anjana Devi then went to a sacred place near Akasa Ganga in Tirumala and performed penance. Vayu Bhagavan, the Wind God, appeared before her and presented her with a fruit. Consuming that, Kesari and Anjana Devi were blessed with a son.

Anjana Devi - Anjanadri - Glory of Seven Hills

That son is the famous Hanuman. He is also known as Anjaneya, the son of Anjana Devi. The place where Anjana Devi did penance came to be known as ‘Anjanadri’.

VRUSHADRI

VRUSHA means Dharma (Righteousness). It is said that Dharma Devata did penance here in Tirumala to attain eternal prosperity. Lord Venkateswara was pleased with his penance and granted wish. The place where Dharma Devata did penance, has come to be known as ‘Vrushadri’. It is also referred ad Dharmadri in some places.

GARUDADRI

GARUDA is the son of Vinata Devi and Sage Kasyapa. He is the Vahana- the divine vehicle of the Lord Vishnu. Kadru is another wife of Kasyapa. She had serpents (snakes) as her children. There was a great enmity between Garuda and Serpents. Garuda used to kill serpents at his will. Because of this, he incurred a lot of sin.

Natural Stone Garuda Formation
Natural Stone Garuda Formation

To wash off the sins, Garuda did penance. When the Lord appeared before him, Garuda entreated him to take him back to Sri Vaikuntam. However, the Lord told him that He would be residing in Tirumala- surrounded by Seven Hills and that he could come there for any service. The Lord named the place where Garuda did penance as ‘Garudadri’. It is also known as Garudachalam.

SESHADRI

There are a few different stories for the place to be known as Seshadri. Sesha means Adisesha, the first and foremost faithful servant of the Lord. He acts as the umbrella to protect from Rain and sun beams, the seat where the Lord sits, the Bed when He reclines, the Sacred Sandal (Paduka) when he walks and so on.

Seshadri - Golory of Seven Hills

It is told that there was a bitter contest between Adisesha and Vayu, the first one protecting the peak of Meru with His hood, while the latter trying to blow off the peak. The contest was going on for a long time. As other gods requested Adisesha to relent and accordingly Adisesha stopped the fight. But the Wind god blew away the peak which fell near the banks of the Swarnamuki River.

When Adisesha was dejected by the act of Vayu, the Gods consoled him and named the hill formed out of Meru peak as ‘Seshadri’, after him. It is also called Seshachalam.

NARAYANADRI

Narayana maharishi wanted to perform penance in praise of Lord Vishnu. So he approached Brahma to show him a place where he could do penance without any outside disturbance. Brahma accordingly showed a place near Tirumala. The Maharishi performed the penance and the Lord appeared before him and blessed him.

NARAYANADRI - Glory of Seven Hills

The Lord also informed that the place will be called as ‘Narayanadri’ henceforth.

VENKATADRI

This is the central place where the temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara is situated. The Lord chose this place as his permanent residence to bless all the devotees who come to him for any wishes.

VENKATADRI - Glory of Seven Hills

Venkatam means that one wipes out all sins and blesses with riches. When the sins are wiped out, you duly get Moksha or Salvation in due course. This is depicted in Nammalwar’s Hymn.

“kundram yendi kulir mazhai kaattavan
andru gnalam alanda piraan
sendru ser thiruvenkatamamalai
ondrume thozha nam vinai oyume”
(Tiruvaimoli-3-3-8)

The Lord protected Gokulam from the torrential rain, ordered by Indra, by holding Govardana Hill for Seven days. Lord measured the universe by His foot during Tiruvikramavataram, and Himself opted to stay in Tiruvenkata Hill. If one prays to the Venkatadri, all his sins will be wiped out and will be blessed with wealth and prosperity.

It is here in Venkatam, Sri Nammalwar surrendered Himself to the presiding Divine Couple, which is depicted in his Tiruvaimoli (6-10-10). Tiruvenkatamudayan, who dwells amongst the holy seven hills, will shower his choicest blessings on us if only we surrender unto him.

Significance of Parivattam in Tirumala Temple

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What is Parivattam

The tradition of tying a piece of cloth around the forehead during important festivals is known as Parivattam. This is an ancient custom in almost all the temples in South India, yet this custom has more importance in the temple of Lord Venkateswara. A piece of cloth torn from the worn dress of the Lord (half a metre) is used for this purpose.

In our temple, this custom is invariably followed on all occasions during Asthanams like

  • Sravana Asthanam,
  • Rohini Asthanam,
  • Punarvasu Asthanam,
  • Deepavali Asthanam,
  • Ugadi Asthanam,
  • Anivara Asthanam and
  • Adhyanotsavam Asthanam.

Purpose of Parivattam

The purpose of tying the parivattam is to recognise the service rendered by an individual from time to time in the service of the Lord. There are names for the occasions called as

  • Dharmakartha Parivattam (jeeyar Parivattam),
  • Circar Parivattam (E.O. or his representative).
  • There is Ubhaya parivattam (Donors) is also in practice during the Utsavams and Asthanam.

Significance of Parivattam in Tirumala Temple

In the ancient days, the Temple administration was under the supervision of the kings or chieftains or local philanthropists or wealthy people who took care of the temples. The kings used to give lands, and jewels and also construct big temples.

In return for their services, the temple administration used to give them parivattam honours offering silk cloth worn by God called ‘Seshavastram’ and garlanding them. This custom is followed even today as a mark of custom in the ‘Srivari’ temple for very important persons.

During Adhyanotsavam, (Vedam & Prabandham) the Deekshitas (Archakas), Jeeyars, Ekangis and Acharyapurushas were also ubhayadars (donors) for each day and receive parivattam honours. Even others connected with the temple like Golla, Annamaiah family members, etc. also contribute their mite during Adhyayanotsavam ubhayam and receive honours.

It is well known that the temples are the centres of socio-economic, religious and secular in nature treating all equally before God. Adhyayanotsavam at Tirumala will be for 23 days and for each day, there are ubhayadars and in Sri Govindarajaswamivari temple 21 days and there are also ubhayadars belonging to all sections of society irrespective of caste and status.

Adhyayanotsavam
Adhyayanotsavam at Tirumala

Parivattam honours are an exclusive opportunity to those attached to the temple of Lord Srinivasa. The Lord recognises all and treats all to participate in all utsavams or Asthanams so that the ubhayadars feel proud that they are the servants of Lord Srinivasa and He is their mainstay.

Sakrut Sevayaa Nitya Sevaa Phalatvam |

Prayaccha Prayaccha Probhovenkatesa ||

– Sri T.K. Krishnaswami Thathacharya

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust

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Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust is yet another forum that plays a very important role in the protection of cows, which is of paramount importance in Hindu Dharma. The TTD has established a dairy farm called ‘Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanasala’ in Tirupati in the year 1956 and formed the trust in 2002 to meet its needs.

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust is established to protect the cow and emphasise the spiritual importance of the cow apart from its economic aspect.

Helping needy

The S.V.Dairy Farm, TTD., Tirupati supplies milk and curd to all the TTD Temples for Rituals, prasadams, Abhishekams etc., and also to the service institutions like

  • S.V.Balamandir (Orphanage),
  • S.V.Deaf and Dumb School,
  • S.V.Training Centre for the Physically handicapped,
  • S.V.Poor Home (Leprosy Hospital),
  • S.V.Vedapatasala,
  • S.V.Oriental College Hostel,
  • TTD Hospitals,
  • “Annadanam” scheme of T.T.D. etc.,

Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam

In ‘Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam’ Lord Brahma became a cow, Lord Siva became a calf and Sri Lakshmi become a Yadava maid and both the cow and calf were sold to Chola king by Sri Lakshmi in a bid to provide milk to meditating Srinivasa in Venkatachalam. There also he protected the cow from the curse of its herdsman.

Cow is the greatest blessing of human race, lands grow rich, homes flourish and civilization advances where the Cow is kept and cared for. The Trust also aims at improving the living conditions of cows outside Goshala by providing technical inputs to the general public.

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust

Donations

Devotees can also help in the protection and propagation of endangered varieties of native cows such as Gir, Sahiwal, Kankrej, Ongole and Punganur, as TTD management has taken up the massive responsibility with the contribution received by this trust.

Privileges to Donors

  1. Donors donating to this trust between Rs.1 lakh and Rs.5 lakh will be allowed for Darshan through ‘Supatham’ for one day in a year (subject to availability) for their family of five persons. They will also get free accommodation for five persons or VIP accommodation on a payment basis once in a year. These privileges will be extended during the lifetime of the donor in the case of individuals or for 20 years, in the case of firms, companies and joint donors.
  2. Those donating an amount between Rs.5 lakh and Rs.10 lakh will get Darshan through ‘Supatham’ for three days in a year (subject to availability) for five members of their family. Free accommodation will be provided for three days or VIP accommodation on a payment basis.
  3. Donors donating an amount between Rs.10 lakh and Rs.1 crore will be provided break darshan for three days in a year (subject to availability) for their family of five persons. They will be provided accommodation for three times in a year at any room with a tariff value of Rs.500.
  4. Those donating Rs.1 crore and above will get VIP break Darshan for three days a year free of cost for their family of five persons. This apart, the donor’s family will also be provided Suprabhatha Seva for any three days other than the VIP break day.

Donations can be made by way of a cheque/demand draft on any Scheduled Bank drawn in favour of the Executive Officer,
Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust, TTD, Tirupati and can be sent to
the Director,
S.V.Dairy Farm (S.V.Gosamrakshana Shala)
Chandragiri Road, TTD, Tirupati -517501.
Ph.0877-226 4570
Individuals, firms, companies etc. can make donations, and they are eligible for uniform privileges besides Income Tax Benefit under Section 80 (G) of the Indian Income Tax Act.
Click Here to Donate