Category: Tirupati

Tirupati is a city in Chittoor district of the Indian state of AP. It is a municipal corporation and the headquarters of Tirupati mandal, and of the Tirupati revenue division.

Spiritual Capital of AP

Tirupati is considered one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites because of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, besides other historical temples, and is referred to as the “Spiritual Capital of Andhra Pradesh”.

Population

As of 2011 census, it had a population of 374,260, making it the ninth most populous city in Andhra Pradesh.

3 Modes of Worship

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3 Modes of Worship

Man, not only yearns for his well-being but also for the welfare of mankind. It is best channeled through a prayer. A prayer should be uttered with concentration.

Prayer / Worship prescribes three steps :

Salutation to the lotus feet of Lord Narayana
Utterance of the pure name of Narayana and
Contemplation of the tatva of Sri Narayana.

These three steps, if practiced, constitute the tapas or meditation. ‘Tatvam’ here refers to the inexpressible essence of Narayana.

Meditation

In these three modes of prayer, meditation is of utmost importance. Meditation should be like a limpid and unbroken flow of thought directed towards God. The union of the devotee with the God brings out for the devotee the fruit and thereby the boon. Praise of the God should be sincere singing of the God’s qualities, achievements and effulgence severally as inherent in Gods and Goddesses –

Gayatri,
Hanuman,
Siva,
Ganesha,
Narasimha and so on.

A mantra is meant for the initiated after a training in accurate pronunciation. A stotra is uttered by people with the conviction that its power is equal to that of mantra. Singing in chanting a mantra and singing the stotra are of equal importance.

Sri Sankaracharya’s Hanumadbhu janga prayata stotra has many unique features. It portrays Sri Hanuman as a personality of composure and valor comparable to those of the Himalayas. His bravery in war is signified by his clarion roar.

His composure, energy, and divine power at work are engaged in carrying out the will of Sri Rama. He shines like the rising sun. A mantra, a stotra and a dandaka are composed in a fit of divine frenzy or a flash of vision. One cannot seek logical consistency and reasoning in the 3 modes of worship or prayer.

3 Modes of Worship or 3 Modes of Prayer

Mantra

A mantra is a sacred utterance, a numinous sound, a syllable, a word, or phonemes. Every mantra has six limbs called Shadangas.

They are the

Seer (Rishi),
Deity (Devata),
Seed (Beeja),
energy (Shakti),
Metre (Chandas) and
Kilaka (Lock).

Hence, mantras are for the initiated elite. The mantra saves the reciter. ‘Mananaat trayate iti mantraha’. It is more of an internal recitation than of loud proclamation. It is strictly private and individual. Stotras are uttered by informed scholars and dandakas are convenient for lay people.

A mantra is composed of Beejaaksharas. It has to be learned from a preceptor. It usually begins with the pranavaakshara ‘Om’. Its intonation should be disciplined. On repeated recitation, the mind starts repeating the fine descriptions, dwells in joy about them, and gets identified with the spirit and essence of the soul-stirring parts, especially of the stotras.

A sincere recitation will not only fulfill the desire of the saadhaka but also will lead to the manifestation of the deity in his mind’s eye.

Chanting is must

Gayatri mantra is to be repeated for a hundred and eight times each in the three sandhyas. Its recitation is a must. The triple acts pooraka (inhalation), kumbhaka (retention) and rechaka (exhalation) stabilize the mind of the saadhaka . One lights upon the layering of sandhyopaasana similar to the petals of a lotus unfolding the progress of the individual soul of the saadhaka.

The significance of the prayer: “Om bhoorbhuvasvaha ….” is singular as it is without any desire for particular material benefits. It is confined to contemplating the highest divine radiance to inspire the intelligence to grasp the essence behind the manifest world.

No worldly desire, no request for the removal of fear, worry, and such negative factors. The request is only for kindling the Buddhi. So only enlightenment is sought.

In other words, Bramhavarchas is sought. Meditation is the key to realizing Bramhvarchas.
In other words, it is the experience of a vision of one such form as a living presence and the practitioner gets easily the vision.

A mantra is characterized by severe elegance and a stotra and more so a dandaka is a spontaneous flow of praise that surges from the heart of the devotee.

In form, style, and structure; the dandakas have distinctive features making them different from the mantras and stotras. A mantra is a formulaic expression. It is incantatory and is well-fitted for recitation. The reciter should aim at attaining a mood that aligns him with the source of cosmic energy and the aim is to achieve union with the soul of the supreme.

The poetic compositions of stotras and dandakas draw upon a pool of conventions and styles of the genre concerned.

Dandaka is sung with gusto and the musical resonances emanate from the sound patterns inherent in a composition. Each composer does it in his way to endow it with a singing melody. “Sarada dandakam” of Sri Kalidasa exploits the device of invocatory hailing devices.

Dandakas are concerned with the praises of the deities of one’s personal choices.

A dandaka as a meditation should dwell on a God or Goddess in one uninterrupted flow of the same thought towards a particular God or Goddess.

Dandakas are prayers that highlight God’s qualities, and achievements. The prayers are aimed at bringing out the form, the glory, and the power as revealed in the Vedas, the Puranas, epics.

Dandakam

We have a host of dandakas dear to almost all the devotees and most of them are composed in pure Telugu.

We can mention

Sri Venkateswara dandakam,
Sreerama dandakam,
Ganesha dandakam,
Sri Anjaneya dandakam and several others.

They are unique in their ways as the Gods praised have been differentiated appropriately. The styles are adjusted to the presentation of Gods and Goddesses concerned.

BirthPlace of Hanuman

Sri Hanuman dandakam

“Sri Hanuman dandakam” is perhaps the most popular of all the dandakams in Telugu. Its logical coherence is derived from the coherence of the features, appearances, valor, bravery, and purity of Hanuman. He is mentioned as the savior of Lakshmana. He puts hope and cheer on Sita about her release from the state of imprisonment.

He gives her the ring of Sri Rama and receives her head ornament to be given to Sri Rama – a mutual confirmation and consolation is thus achieved. He brings Sanjeevini mountain and saves Lakshmana from a mortal faint. Thus he inspires hope in Sita and restores Lakshmana to life.

The pragmatic aspect of saving Sita is to be realized through causing a bridge for all the hordes of vanaras to cross the ocean. They overpower the demons in the army of Ravana. Ravana employs the might of sakti. On the other hand, Hanuman helps the world by his bramha tejas in exorcising people of evil spirits.

In this task of working out the welfare of the world, Hanuman is fortified by repeating Taraka mantra. In such a good task, Hanuman becomes another Narasimha. The epic “Sreemad Ramayana” is telescoped in narrating a few key incidents. All this flashes across the mind’s eye of the reader. Vibhishana’s coronation foreshadows the coronation of Sri Rama.

Sri Venkateswara Swamy - 108 Divya Desams

Sri Venkateswara dandakam

“Sri Venkateswara dandakam” is a compendium of the greatness of Lord Venkateswara. His descent from Vaikunta is followed step by step by his gradual evolution into pratyaksha daiva. He has to be praised as Abhayavarada and it brings to our mind the actual descent of God from Vaikunta to the earth.

The rituals derived from the literary texts intertwine the sacred presence of Sri Venkatesa. The group of sevas are known as Udayaastamana sevas making Lord Srinivasa a vibrant deity. One can round off the dandaka study by knowing the meaning of dandaka as a garland. It is both literal and metaphorical in the context of garland used as the age-old ornament in the worship of deities.

Article by – Dr. M. Sreeramachar

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) – Schemes and Trusts

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Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) – Schemes and Trusts

Philanthropy is one of the major sources of revenue that drives the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) in its endeavor to benefit society. More than the money involved, it is the offerings made by the devotees, right from a normal person to a multi-millionaire, in fulfillment of their vow that matters.

Any devotee can simply drop his offerings into the ‘Srivari Hundi’. Besides, they can also contribute a significant amount to the scores of schemes and trusts run by the TTD as part of its social responsibility. By contributing to the schemes, every devotee can become a partner with the TTD’s objectives to reach out to society.

Sri Venkateswara Anna Prasadam Trust

Going by the adage ‘Manava Sevaye Madhava Seva’ (service to humanity is service to the Lord), the TTD launched Sri Venkateswara Anna Prasadam Trust, which is a major source today in providing meals to the tens of thousands of devotees visiting Tirumala every day.

Every morsel of food provided to the common public is viewed as ‘Srivari Prasadam’ and hence is accepted with utmost devotion.

One-Day Donation Scheme

T.T.D. has introduced a scheme towards a one-day contribution of the donation amount for serving Annaprasadam at Tirumala. The devotees can contribute towards the entire one-day Annaprasadam or breakfast, lunch, or dinner the name of the donor will be displayed at MTVAC, and the donor is permitted to serve the Annaprasadam on any chosen date.

The contributions will be treated as corpus donations and uniform privileges will apply to the donors like darshan, accommodation, etc.

Sri Venkateswara Pranadana Trust

The TTD has several hospitals under its umbrella, which provide free medical treatment and even conduct surgeries for the deserving poor. Sri Venkateswara Pranadana Trust was formed with the noble aim of providing free medication to poor patients afflicted with life-threatening diseases related to heart, kidney, brain, etc.

Beneficiaries are identified transparently by a team of medical experts and the treatment or surgery is done free of cost.

With medical care becoming increasingly unaffordable, this trust has proved to be a savior for many.

click here to know more about donations towards Paranadana Trust

Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust

This 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 established a dairy farm called ‘Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanasala’ in Tirupati in the year 1956 and formed the trust in 2002 to meet its needs.

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.

Click here for more details

Sri Venkateswara Vidyadana Trust

This trust was formed in the year 2008 to sanction scholarships to 1000 meritorious students living below the poverty line. Students studying in Zilla Parishat, municipal corporation, private aided, and even the schools run by the TTD management are eligible to get the scholarships.

By providing education to a single student, the TTD aims to better the lives of an entire generation.

Balaji Institute of Surgery, Research and Rehabilitation for the Disabled (BIRRD)

Physical disability is one major impediment that ruins one’s life. To come to the rescue of such disabled persons, the TTD formed the Balaji Institute of Surgery, Research and Rehabilitation for the Disabled (BIRRD) Trust to treat patients suffering from polio mellitus, cerebral palsy, congenital anomalies, spinal injuries, and other orthopedic disorders.

With state-of-the-art equipment and modern operation theatres, the BIRRD hospital is comparable to the best orthopedic super-specialty hospitals in Asia. The treatment is provided free of cost at this hospital to the deserving persons.

Sri Venkateswara Veda Parirakshana Trust

Vedas are at the root of Hindu Dharma. The Sanatana Hindu Dharma is identified through the Vedic tradition. To preserve the ancient Vedas, Sri Venkateswara Veda Parirakshana Trust was formed in the year 2007. With this, the TTD runs Veda Patasalas and provides financial emoluments to aged Vedic scholars to let them share their rich knowledge with the younger generation.

Donating to this trust is synonymous with protecting the ancient Vedic civilization. As repair, renovation, and revival of ancient temples is the key to protecting the Hindu Dharma, Sri Venkateswara Heritage Preservation Trust was introduced in 2006 to protect dilapidated temples and other heritage structures. Donations to this trust will directly help in protecting our ancient temple tradition.

Sri Venkateswara Sarvasreyas Trust

The TTD established Sri Venkateswara Bala Mandir in the year 1943 to take care of orphaned children. It was later renamed as Sri Venkateswara Sarvasreyas Trust, which provides shelter to boys and girls who have no parents or those with parents who are not able to bring them up due to financial constraints.

Such children are admitted to this school and free education is provided to make them bright and responsible citizens.

Sri Venkateswara Alaya Nirmanam (SRIVANI) Trust

Sri Venkateswara Alaya Nirmanam (SRIVANI) Trust has been formed in recent years to construct, maintain, manage, and administer Sri Venkateswara temples and their properties. Various religious rituals pertaining to the temples will also be performed with the funds donated to the trust.

Click here for more details.

Sri Balaji Arogya Varaprasadini Scheme

It was formed in the year 2007 in Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS), the TTD’s super specialty hospital. The funds received by this trust are used to conduct medical research and provide medical treatment to deserving patients.

How to Make Donation

For all the above trusts, devotees can issue a cheque or draw a demand draft in favor of ‘The Executive Officer, TTD, Tirupati’ and send it to the address ‘The Chief Accounts Officer, Centralised Donor Management Cell, TTD administrative building, Kapila Theertham Road, Tirupati – 517 501’.

All donations are exempt under Sec 80(G) of the Income Tax Act.

Privileges to Donors

The TTD also provides certain privileges to the donors contributing to the above schemes.

1 to 5 Lakh

According to the information provided by the TTD, philanthropists donating any amount 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 a year.

Six small Laddus will be provided to them during their visit for Darshan, apart from one Dupatta, a blouse piece as ‘Bahumanam’. These privileges will be extended during the lifetime of the donor in case of individuals or for 20 years, in case of firms, companies, and joint donors.

5 to 10 Lakh

Those who donate 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.

Ten small Laddus are provided during two visits to the temple, at the rate of five each time, apart from Dupatta, blouse piece as ‘Bahumanam’. A silver coin weighing 50 grams will be given once in their lifetime.

10 Lakh to 1 Crore

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 three times a year in any room with a tariff value of Rs.500. A gold dollar weighing 5 grams and a silver coin weighing 50 grams will be given once in their lifetime.

1 Crore and Above

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. They will get accommodation in a VIP suite having a tariff value of Rs.2500 for three days a year.

‘Veda Asirvachanam’ will be performed free of cost at Ranganayakula Mandapam by Vedic Pundits on any day chosen by the devotee once a year. Ten big Laddus will be provided to them every year, at the rate of five per visit for two times.

They will also get one gold dollar weighing 5 grams and a 50-gram silver coin once in their lifetime.

Devotees donating Rs.10000 to SRIVANI Trust will get the privilege of VIP break darshan. One VIP break darshan ticket is given for every donation of Rs.10000, subject to a ceiling of nine persons. Donors will have to redeem the privilege by paying Rs.500 per ticket.

In all the above cases, room is not provided to a single person arriving at Tirumala.

Sri Venkateswara Aapanna Hrudaya Scheme

Donors can sponsor the cost of a child’s heart surgery by donating Rs.1 lakh to the hospital under the Sri Venkateswara Aapanna Hrudaya Scheme for children treated at Sri Padmavati CHildren Heart Centre, Tirupati. Donors can be individuals, corporate firms, or trusts.

Donors will get a one-time break darshan for a family of five persons (subject to availability). For firms and trusts, five persons will be allowed for Break darshan on payment of Break darshan charges.

Devotees can donate to any of the above trusts/schemes to directly contribute to the TTD’s activities to make the world a better place to live in.

Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsavam – Srinivasa Mangapuram

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Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsava Utsavam at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple

The T.T.D. performs Various utsavas every year on different occasions to Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swami in Srinivasamangapuram. One among them is the annual ‘Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsava utsavam’. This utsavam is conducted for three days in Ashadamasam.

Legend

There is an interesting Sthala Purana behind the celebrations of the Annual Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsavam. Sri Venkateswara Swamy married the daughter of Akasaraja, Sri Padmavathi Devi in Narayanavanam and started the journey towards his residence at Tirumala.

On the way, he reached the Agastya Maharshi Ashram on the banks of the Swarnamukhi River and received his hospitality. In those days, there was a rule that the newly wedded couple should not climb the hill for six months.

Hence, Sri Venkateswara Swamy and His consort Sri Padmavathi Devi lived for Six months in Maharshi’s Ashram. After six months, he started his journey to Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Swamy gracefully granted Agastya Maharshi’s wish to remain as Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy there. The place is present Srinivasa Mangapuram.

Evident from the Inscription

Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy is receiving the puja of devotees from the ancient days, the temple of Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy reached its state of dilapidation. As such, the grandson of Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya, Chinna Tirumalacharya (Chinnanna) renovated the temple and performed puja to Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy.

This fact is evident from the Inscription dated March 22nd, 1510 at the entrance of the temple. Later, the temple retained its glory for many years till it was lost in the 20th Century. In 1940, an Archaka by name Sri Sundara Raja Swamy of Kanchi came to Srinivasamangapuram.

Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy appeared in the dream to Sundara Raja Swamy and ordered him to see that the temple area be cleaned and the pujas to be continued. As such Sundara Raja Swamy took the help of the local people to clean the bushes in the temple premises and started regular pujas.

Sundara Rajaswamy conducted the puja of Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy on July 11th, 1940. That day was Ashada Sukla paksha Shashti. That day was the day on which the great deity showed his blessings through His holy appearance before the devotees. Taking this as an auspicious occasion, The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams started celebrating the “Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsavams” every year.

Sakshatkaram

The holy appearance of the deity before the devotees is called Sakshatkaram or Darshan. Taking this occasion of the deity’s holy appearance, the Festival is celebrated and hence, it is called Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsavam. This festival is celebrated for three days i.e. previous day and the following day including the day on which His holiness appeared i.e., Ashada sudda shasti.

It is said that Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swami appeared in the dream to an ‘Archaka’ and ordered him to see that the temple area be cleaned and pujas be continued in a great way without any interruption. As such, the archaka proceeded with the work and started pujas.

Three-Day Ritual

On the First day of these celebrations, the processional deity of Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy with His consorts are taken out in a procession from the temple to the Kalyana Mandapa.

Tirumanjanam (Celestial Bath) is conducted between 10.00 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. In the evening Unjal Seva will be performed. At night, the processional deity of Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy along with His consorts is taken out in a procession on Golden Tiruchi around four Mada streets.

Similarly, on the second day, Hanumantha Vahana Seva is celebrated.

On the Third day night, the Garuda Vahana Seva is performed. Taking into consideration, the holy day on which the Lord made his appearance before the devotees, the three-day festival of Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy is celebrated with the worshipping of the devotees and in return the Lord blesses them.

Final Word

In these Sakshatkara Vaibhavotsavams, the Darshan of the Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy results in endless blessings for the Devotees. Let us all participate in this occasion and be blessed.

Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam

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Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam

Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam is the latest sacred offering from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams for the devotees seeking the Lord’s divine blessings.

The Homam was formally inaugurated in November 2023, marking the auspicious occasion of Utthana Ekadasi in the sacred Kartheeka month under the aegis of TTD Trust Board Chairman Sri Bhumana Karunakar Reddy and TTD Executive Officer, Sri A.V. Dharma Reddy, I.D.E.S.

Homam

‘Homam’ is a sacred ritual that has an important role in invoking the blessings of the Lord Almighty through Agni, according to Hindu Dharmic scriptures. For the devotees visiting Tirupati, having an eyeful of darshan at Tirumala gives them enough contentment and they feel blessed for a lifetime.

However, participating in a sacred ritual like a ‘Homam’ at the lotus feet of Lord Venkateswara that directly invokes the blessings of the Almighty takes the spiritual bliss to an all-time high.

At Alipiri

It was with this intention that the TTD management came up with the idea of conducting a ‘Homam’ at Alipiri, Tirupati by roping in Sri Venkateswara Vedic University. Performing a Homam is usually an expensive custom for an individual, but when it is a ‘Samoohika Homam’, i.e., performed collectively by a group, it turns out to be economical as the cost is shared by all the beneficiaries.

When such a Homam is performed by none other than the TTD, the custodian of Lord Venkateswara, it also gets an enhanced devotional fervor.

For this Homam, teaching staff from the Department of Vaikhanasa Agama, Sri Venkateswara Vedic University, Tirupati are conducting the Homam in tune with the doctrine of Vaikhanasa Agama. The process includes the conduct of Viswaksena Puja, Punyahavachanam, Sadhyonkurarpana, and tying of ‘Raksha Sutram’ or ‘Deeksha Kankanam’ to the deity of Sri Venkateswara.

Sankalpam

‘Sankalpam’ will be performed after reading out the ‘Gotra Nama’ of all the participants. ‘Nava Kundams’ are arranged at the spot, dedicated to each of the Lord’s nine divine forms such as Vishnu, Purusha, Satya, Achyuta, Aniruddha, Kapila, Yagna, Narayana and Punya.

With Chaturveda and Sastra Parayanam, ‘Kumbhaaradhana’ will be performed, and ‘Ashtothara Namavali’ will be read out while offering ‘Harathi Samarpana’ to the deity as well as the Kundams. Hymns from the Panchasuktam will be read out, along with ‘Ekakshara Suktam’, which is mentioned in Vaikhanasa Agama.

Similarly, ‘Paaramatmika Upanishad’ found in the form of 108 Mantras in Vaikhanasa Agama is read out, narrating the divine qualities of Maha Vishnu, the glory of His Dasavatharas, details of the universe, and the five elements ‘Panchabhuta Tattva’.

Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam – Venue

Sri Venkateswara Saptha Go Pradakshinasala at Alipiri, Tirupati has been chosen as the venue for the event, so that the academics from the nearby Vedic University are accessible for the daily event. Apart from the seven existing faculty members, the university has appointed four more academicians to conduct the ritual.

Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam also serves as an internship opportunity for the senior students of the Vaikhanasa Agama Department, who get hands-on training in the ritual. Devotees feel that participating in the Homam and getting the divine grace showered on them makes their pilgrimage complete a full circle.

Let us participate in this Divine Homam and be blessed by Lord Srinivasa.- Booking Process

More details

Sri Srinivasa Divyanugraha Homam is performed between 9 am and 11 am daily. The participation is restricted at present to 200 Grihasthas (400 persons) at a time, for which 150 tickets are reserved online and 50 made available offline for the devotees at Alipiri in Tirupati.

The TTD plans to expand it to 500 tickets a day soon, for which a bigger ‘Homa Vedika’ will be built close by. Participants at this Homam will get an opportunity to buy Rs.300 tickets for darshan at Tirumala.

Sri Lakshmi Jayanti in Tirupati 2022

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Sri Lakshmi Jayanti in Tirupati – Sri GovindarajaSwami Temple

Tremendous importance is attached to this ‘Sri Lakshmi Jayanti’ ritual which is performed in Sri Govindarajaswami temple, Tirupati.

Temples are representatives of our culture and traditions. Festivals are an important part of our culture. They are some special occasions, bringing people together to commemorate rituals. One can experience the heavenly enjoyment and feeling of fulfilment once we have the grand sight of the ritual. When festivals are celebrated in temples, they are extra special as they are believed to bring protection and happiness to people.

Govindaraja Swami Temple

Sri Mahalakshmi or Pundareeka Ammavaru temple is located at Sri Govindarajaswami Temple Complex in Tirupati. Sri Lakshmi Jayanti utsavam will be performed to Sri Pundareeka Ammavaru on Uttara phalguni, the birth star of Sri Mahalakshmi celebrated for seven days from 12-03-2022 to 18-03-2022.

Sri Lakshmi Jayanti in Tirupati 2022

Ritual Sequence

Every day in the evening Sri Pundareeka Ammavaru will be decked with resplendent ornaments, flowers and will be taken for unjal seva in front of Her temple. There will be Prabandha Ghosti in the evening and asthanam after Her arrival inside the temple.

On 18.02.2022 (the last day) the star being the Uttara Phalguni, there will be Snapana Thirumanjanam and afterwards asthanam will be conducted. In the evening of this day, once in a year, Lord Govindarajaswamivaru comes to Her place to greet Her on Her birth star day. There will be unjal seva for both of them facing each other at a distance of 10 mts.

The Kalyanam or marriage of Sri Mahalakshmi with the exchange of garlands will be a feast to the eyes of the devotees who throng in large numbers to the temple. Another important and interesting event will be the closing of entrance doors by Mahalakshmi when the Lord is about to be taken into Her temple. He will come at high speed but the doors will be closed. This will be done three times and finally, She allows Him to enter after He expresses ‘Sorry’ for His mistakes.

Afterwards, both Sri Mahalakshmi and Sri Govindaraja Swami will be seated on one throne (Simhasanam) and the ritual ends with Asthanam and the distribution of Prasadams to all those present there. Many Local people come purposely to see the Kalyanam and the ‘Mock show of anger‘ by Sri Pundareeka Ammavaru towards Her husband and they re-union for the sake of ‘their children’ the devotees.

Article by “- Sri T.K. Krishnaswami Thathacharya”

SriVari Seva – Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD)

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SriVari Seva Services

Intending to offer better services to the pilgrims who come from far-flung parts of the country and across the globe to Tirumala for darshan of Sri Venkateswara Swamy, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams(TTD) has launched “Srivari Seva” voluntary service in the year 2000.

The services of Srivari Sevakulu are being utilized in over five dozen areas in Tirumala with major pilgrim interface areas including Vigilance, Health, Annaprasadam, Garden, Medical, LadduPrasadam, Temple, Transport, Kalyanakkatta, Book Stalls etc

According to Hindu scriptures, Seva is seen as the highest form of Dharma (righteousness). The concept of Seva which means Service is considered as one of the most important tenets of Hindu Sanatana Dharma.

Serving other people without seeking anything in return is considered an essential devotional practice of indirectly serving the Supreme God. In other words, Seva is simply defined as the ‘Selfless Act’ that is performed without any hopes of reciprocation, monetary benefits, awards, or rewards.

Origin of SriVari Seva

Every day tens of thousands of devotees throng the holy shrine of Sri Venkateswara. The devotees never mind to wait for long waiting hours in serpentine queue lines extending up to some kilometers from Tirumala shrine, to catch a glimpse of Srivaru for a fraction of a second.

Apart from darshan queue lines, Tirumala witnesses a heavy influx of devotees at the accommodation, Kalyanakatta, Annaprasadam, Laddu Complex, luggage counters, and everywhere To meet the requirements of ever-increasing pilgrim crowd to Tirumala, TTD has tossed the idea of a Voluntary Service initially in 1998 to offer services to the fellow devotees on a trial basis as “Srinivasa Seva”. Later during the year 2000 in November, “Srivari Seva” was launched in a full-fledged manner in Tirumala.

Beginning with just 200 numbers of Srivari Sevaks, today on any given day not less than 2000 sevaks render service to their fellow pilgrims in Tirumala. During the peak days like summer vacation, annual Brahmotsavams, Vaikuntha Ekadasi, Rathasapthami, etc. the figure doubles.

The Srivari Sevaks, a brigade of volunteers, are not just from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana but hail from Tamilnadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, New Delhi, Chattisgarh also.

Since its inception, so far 12.50 lakh Srivari Sevaks (till June 2022) belong to 95 thousand odd teams with 8.60 lakh female and 3.90 lakh male. Srivari Sevaks have rendered impeccable services to their fellow pilgrims in the last 22 years.

Journey From a small chamber to a 100 Crore MASSIVE BUILDINGS

During the initial days, the Srivari Seva office used to be in a small chamber located adjacent to the main Kalyanakatta in Tirumala. Along with the time, there has seen a lot of transformation in the last two decades of its journey.

Click here for the Google Maps location ( Srivari Seva Sadan)

Considering the importance of Srivari Sevaks, TTD has constructed twin buildings opposite Sri Varaha Swami Rest House and behind the Kalyana Vedika in Tirumala at an expense of Rs.100 crores to accommodate both the female and male volunteers separately with well-furnished accommodation and other facilities.

SERVICE TO MANKIND IS SERVICE TO GOD

“Manava Seva ye Madhava Seva” – the service to Humanity is service to Divinity is a famous saying in the Hindu scriptures. Sticking to this noble ideology, TTD commenced the Srivari Seva Voluntary Service. Devotees from across the country of their own volition are making use of this opportunity to serve their compatriot devotees selflessly.

A Supporting Arm to TTD

The services of Srivari Sevaks are being utilized at different areas in TTD among which the prominent ones include Vigilance, Health, Anna Prasadam, Garden, Medical, Laddu Prasadam, Srivari Temple, Transport, Kalyanakatta, Book stalls and Agarbatti- Panchagavya sales while the professional sevas includes Parakamani and Navaneeta Seva.

Some areas where Srivari Sevaks render services

Queue lines, and compartments to regulate devotee crowds
Serving drinking water, buttermilk, snacks, milk, and Anna Prasadam in the VQC Compartments, Narayanagiri Garden Sheds, outside queue lines, food counters, etc.
Serving at Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Anna Prasadam Complex (MTVAC), PAC-II.
Scanning the luggage of devotees.
Preparation of Garlands, and plucking of flowers at the Garden department.
Sale of religious books, TTD calendars and diaries, Panchagavya, Dry Flower Technology photo frames, Agarbattis, etc.
Assisting the aged and handicapped devotees at Darshan queues and hospitals.
Sale of Coconuts and biodegradable covers in laddu counters.
Splitting of Cashew nuts for making Laddu Prasadams and Anna Prasadams.
Getting feedback from devotees for the betterment of the system.

SPECIALIZED SEVAs

Apart from the general sevas, TTD has also introduced specialized sevas including Parakamani and Navaneetha Sevas.

Parakamani Seva

Parakamani is the counting and accounting of the currencies and coins offered by the devotees in Srivari Hundi. The Parakamani Seva was commenced by TTD in August 2012. Only male sevaks aged between 25 years and 65 years are eligible to apply for Parakamani Seva.

Navaneetha Seva

To render service to Gomatathe cow, as per the traditional practices mentioned in the great epics and scriptures of the Hindu Santana Dharma, Navaneetha seva was commenced by TTD in August 2021 on the auspicious occasion of Sri Krishna Janmashtami at S.V. Gosala in Tirumala.

This unique seva includes cleaning the Gosala premises, drawing Rangolis, making cakes with cow dung to use as fuel material, feeding fodder to cows, churn butter through traditional means, etc.

Devotees who are willing to render the Navaneetha Seva shall have to apply only online. Only women sevaks aged between 35 years and 50 years are eligible to apply for Navaneetha Seva.

Vishnu Nivasam - Tirupati — Vishnu Nivasam – Near Tirupati Railway station

SRIVARI SEVA IN TIRUPATI

After the successful implementation of Srivari Seva in Tirumala, the same Services has been commenced in Tirupati also in the year 2014. The services of Srivari Sevaks are being utilized at Tirupati, Tiruchanoor, and local temples viz. Srinivasa Mangauram, Appalayagunta, Central Hospital, DPW Stores, Marketing Godown, S.V. Gosala, Rest Houses of TTD, Annaprasadam etc. The women and men volunteers are being provided accommodation at Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati located opposite the Railway station.

BHAJAN AND SATSANG TO SRIVARI SEVAKS

TTD intends to imbibe service orientation, and religious motivation among Srivari Sevaks by providing training to them. Every day Bhajana and Satsang classes are being conducted to Srivari Sevaks along with orientation on Do’s and Don’ts at Tirumala Seva Sadan both in the morning and in the evening. Similarly, every Tuesday and Friday, the Bhajana and Satsang Classes are held in Sevaks at Tirupati Vishnu Nivasam.

Hindu Sanatana Dharma

Apart from rendering services at various points in Tirumala and Tirupati, the Srivari Sevaks are voluntarily taking part in various spiritual and Dharmic activities mulled by TTD across different parts of the country.

Be it the opening of Sri Venkateswara Divya Kshetrams at Visakhapatnam, Bhuvaneshwar, Amaravati, or religious programs like Karthika Deepotsavams, Venkateswara Vaibhavotsavams, Srinivasa Kalyanams etc. taken up by TTD, everywhere Srivari Sevaks have been offering dedicated services to the local devotees, thereby acting as the “Torch Bearers” of Hindu Santana Dharma.

Instructions to SriVari Sevaks

Only Hindus shall apply for Srivari Seva.
The Srivari Seva is a free service intended to serve fellow pilgrims.
Sevaks will be allowed to book for General Seva / Parakamani Seva / Navaneetha Seva again only after 90 days from the performance of their last seva date.
Devotees who are willing to perform General Srivari Seva have to apply either online or offline.
The minimum strength for a group is 10 and the maximum is 15 which can be booked both off-line as well in online.

Offline Process

The sevaks who intend to perform Srivari Seva have to write a letter to the following address.

The Public Relations Officer,
TTD Administrative Building, Room No.60
K.T. Road, Tirupati- 517501
Phone: 0877 – 2264217

The selected Srivari Sevaks shall receive a copy of proceedings from the Office of PRO, Tirupati inviting them for Srivari Seva and also a confirmation SMS will be forwarded to their registered mobile Number.

Online Process

To avail Srivari Seva, one has to register online by login to srivariseva.tirumala.org. (The instructions and procedure to apply online are available on the TTD official website).

The age limit for applying (as an Individual or group) Srivari Seva (General) for a period of 7 days is 18 to 60 years.

Sri Vari Sevaks Dress Code

For Women Volunteers:
Orange saree with Maroon border and Maroon blouse or
Orange top with Maroon dupatta and Maroon Pyjama

For Men Volunteers:
White Shirt with White Pants or Dhoti

ONLINE SYSTEM INTRODUCED TO ENHANCE TRANSPARENCY IN SRIVARI SEVA

For the latest updates on SriVari Seva, Click here

Wide meanings for the words Tirupati & Tirumala

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Tirupati & Tirumala

Tiru

‘Tiru’ is a Tamil word in both Tirupati and Tirumala. ‘Tiru’ is affixed to several villages and towns in Tamil Nadu. For example: Tirunelveli, Tiruchinapalli, Tiruvallikkeni, Tirunindravur. It has become a tradition for Tamil to affix the word ‘Tiru’ indicating the honor of persons.

The word ‘Tiru’ is prevalent in the traditions and customs of Vaishnavas. Ex: Tirumeni, Tirumada Veedhi, Tiruppalliyelluchi, Tirumanjanam.

Tirupati

Tirupati speaks clearly about Sripati. Sri Mahavishnu is none other than Sripati. The places where Mahavishnu with His consort Lakshmi is installed in worship form are called Tirupatis. But while speaking about the Holy Places in Tamil Nadu the word ‘Tirupati’ is not affixed to any Holy Place.

The Holy Place Sri Rangam is called Sri Rangam but it is not called Tirupati. Sri Villiputtur is not called ‘Villiputtur Tirupati’. This kind of dispute is not there for Tirupati in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. It remains a compound word without the necessity of being prefixed or suffixed by any word to ‘Tirupati’.

Tirumala

In ancient times there was significance only for the word Tirumala. ‘Mala’ means ‘hill’. When ‘Tiru’ has become a sacred term, Tirumala has become a Sacred Hill. Peyalwar, one of the Alwars described Tirumalai as a Hill where streams flow in plenty around it and hailed swami ‘Tirumalai Mel’. But this town in ancient times was called Govinda Raja Pattanam, Achyutaraya Puram, Kottur.

Diguva Tirupati and Yeguva Tirupati

In Telugu Errana who worshipped “Venkatachalasthayi” gave importance to the term ‘Venkata’. Sreenatha in “Kasikhandam” referred to the mountains as Sri Saila, Venkata, Ahobila, Sonadri, and Salagramam. During the days of the Tallapaka dynasty, the place at the foot of the Hill was called ‘Diguva Tirupati’ and the place on the top of the Hill was called ‘Yeguva Tirupati’.

But in their keertanas, the poets used it with a single meaning but in other places, they used it separately.

As per the context, we must understand the places described.

‘Sripati puranayaka
Ramaku Tirupati Ramude mandu
Sri Venkatadri Tirupati Lopalanu’

In some way, Kannada Haridasas hailed Him ‘Tirumala Tirupati Vasa, Kande Tirupati Venkata Ramana’ in Devara namagalu like Tallapaka poets. Whatever the reason, Tirumala has become a Sacred Place with the importance of Kshetra, Teertha, and Divine traits.

Importance of Tirumala Hills

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Tirumala Hills

Some temples are situated on the banks of rivers. Some can be seen in the forests. Some others are on the mountain tops and others are in caves. The temple of Sri Venkateswara is in a mountainous forest area.

Both the Hill and the river have become sacred on account of Swami’s presence. Swami said to Siva, “Anantoham Mahadeva Sthasyami Giri Rupadhrut Mahadeva! “Mahadeva”! I am in the form of a Hill though I am infinite and eulogized greatly about the Hill.

Reach the Hill that touches the top of the sky and then worship God. Climbing the tower of Venkatagiri, take shelter at the Feet of Bhagawan standing on the cliff, and subsit always at the feet of Bhagawan.

Annamcharya Keerthanas

Annamacharya sang many keertans on the Glory of the mountain mixing them with the feelings of Alwars and the legendary matters.

Of all the keertans the most famous keertan is –

“Adivo Alladivo Hari vasamu”.

The second one is

“Kattedura vaikunthamu kanachayina konda
Tettelaya Mahimale Tirumala konda”.

Nature in Tirumala was beautiful during the time of Annamayya. There must have been good weather, not causing any tiredness to the pilgrims.

That’s why he said,”

“Toranamule trovella
moorata baralumunchina lathala
Vinjamaralunu visanakarralunu
gonje godugeve kondella”.

“Festoons all along the way with the creepers in lengthy way vinjamaras and hand fans Full of umbrellas is this hill.”

The peacocks, the groups of kokilalu (the nightingale), different races of birds, and the trees that offered aspiring fruits were easily available for the pilgrims in those days.

In the same way, there were monasteries and towers as the resting places for the pilgrims.

Now we say that Tirumala is a garland of Seven Hills, but in Krutayuga it was called ‘Vrushabhadri’.
In Tretayuga it was called Anjanadri.
In Dwapara it was called Seshachalam.
According to another version, it was called Anjanachalam in Krutayuga and Venkatachalam in Tretayuga.

That’s why Annamayya vividly described the area of this Hill.

‘Ade chudu Venkatadri Nalagu yugamulandu
Velugondi prabha miraganu?
“Look at Tiruvenkatadri shining forth in four
yugas.”

Tirumala Hill Names (Seven Hills)

There is a reference about the Seven Hills in Suprabhatam and Sreenivasa Gadyam. Sri Parvatam, Seshasailam, Garudachalam, Venkatadri, Narayanadri, and Vrushadri are the Seven Hills.

In addition to these, some other Hills like

Chintamani,
Gnanadri,
Teerthadri,
Pushkaradri,
Kanakadri,
Simhachalam,
Anjanadri,
Varahadri,
Neeladri,
Sreenivasagiri,
Anandadri, and
Sumeru sikharam were mentioned in legends.

Kannada Haridasa mentioned the Hills also as Sugandha parvata vasa, Saptagiri vasa, Kondalagiriya vasa along with these names.

Varaha Kshetra

It is quite natural that the people go up the Hills when any Natural Calamity takes place. Swami is there on the Hill inviting the devotees who are deeply immersed in the ocean of samsara and getting disappointed, whatever it may be, it is worthy to note that Tamilians call swami “Tiru Vengada mudaiyan”. This Hill is called Varaha Kshetra because of the story of Varaha Swami. But over time the name ‘Venkatadri’ is fully established.

Giri Sikhara Darshanam

In some of the temples a visit to the temple – tower is important. It is called “Giri Sikhara Darshanam”. Vijayadasa, Kannada Vaggeyakara sang two lengthy keertans on ‘Giri Sikhara Darshan’.

They are

‘Giriya Sikharavakande’
‘Giriya Sikharavanodi”.

As soon as the pilgrims reach Tirupati, they look at the temple – tower, bow their heads, fold their hands, and prostrate before the tower with all their devotion. They suminate this experience repeatedly and go forward. This scene is beautifully described by Vijayadasa.

He said that those who don’t have Bhakti sadhans are denied the opportunity of visiting the Hill, one step in Tirumala is enough to uplift his entire race. Uragadri Vittaladasa said that until and unless one has punya pakam (results of virtues) one cannot get Giri Darshan. Vedanta Desika in his “Daya satakam” sang about the Hill.

“Prapadye tam Girim prayah
Sreenivasanukampaya
Ikshu sarasravantyava
yanmurtya sarkarayitam”.

Tiruvenkatachala parvatam

That the mercy of Sreenivasa flowed like the flood of sugarcane juice and got solidified and transformed into Sugar Hill called ‘Tiruvenkatachala parvatam’. Paramasiva taught Sanakada Maharshis that the visit of Venkatachala would not be available without the devotional practice in the innumerable births of aeons past. This legendary matter is as follows in the words of Vijayadasa.

“Anantajanumake sadhanakudadallade
EeNaga Darigu Darusana Vagadu”.

Giridarshanam and Giri Pradakshinam are important for Saivites also.

Ankurarpana Mandapam – Tirupati Balaji Temple

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Ankurarpana Mandapam / Ankur Arpana Mandapam

Opposite the chief kitchen and towards the south of Bangaru Baavi there is a mandapam. This is known as Ankurarpana Mandapam. Every year the Dasara Brahmothsavam is celebrated for ten days by Lord Venkateswara. The initiation of this Brahmothsavam starts from this Mandapam.

Ankuram as we all known is sprout. Arpanam is offering. Here in this mandapam, Nava Dhanyam (nine varieties of grains) sprouts are grown. For every auspicious occasion, the sprouting marks the beginning. The sprouting process takes place a day before the hoisting of a flag on Golden Dhwajasthambham. (click here for Dhwajasthambham mandapam).

Google’s Map – Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple

Vishwaksena – chief commander of Lord Venkateswara

On that day under the supervision of the chief commander of Lord Venkateswara, Vishwaksena, the Ankurarpanam takes place. Firstly the idols of Vishwaksena, Garuda, and Anantha will be brought from Ramulavari Meda to this Mandapam. Then under the direction of Vishwaksena fine ant hill soil is collected.

Then Sri Vishwaksena, Sri Sudarsana, Anantha, and Garuda reach Vasantha Mandapam which is situated in the southwest direction of Lord’s temple.

With all temple honors like piped music, beating of drums, chanting of Veda Mantras they proceed to Vasantha Mandapam in a procession. The soil collection, particularly the soil from ant hills, takes place in Vasantha Mandapam. Before collecting the soil from ant hills, the instruments to be used and even ant hills are worshipped as per Vedic rituals. Then with that soil Vishwakasena, in a procession enters the main temple through Maha pradakshana path.

Then onwards Sri Vishwaksena, Garuda, etc., stay back in Ankurarpana Mandapam till the completion of Brahmothsavam. Not only during Brahmothsavams, but even on occasions like Jyeshtabhishekam (an annual function which is celebrated for three days from pournami) Sravana Nakshthram day (this comes in the month of Karthik on this day pushpa yaga utsavam is performed to Lord Venkateswara) the aforesaid procedure of Ankurarpanam will be performed a day before under the supervision of Vishwaksena who happens to be the commander-in-chief.

Because the Ankurarpanam takes place, this mandapam gets the name of Ankur Arpana Mandapam. This mandapam has one more specialty.

The idols of

Anantha,
Vishwaksena,
Garuda,
Sugreeva,
Angada, and
Anjaneya

which will be in Ramulavari Meda, are shifted to Ankurarpana Mandapam. This shifting helps the pilgrims who visit Tirumala to have the darshan of idols mentioned. We have already come to know about these idols and their importance. Let us bow before these idols.

Explore all Mandapams Inside Tirumala Temple

Yagasala

Adjacent to Ankurarpana Mandapam towards the west there is a room. This room is known as Yagasala. Yagams are conducted here. All Yagas connected with the daily Vedic activities of the temple are conducted here. Of late Yagas are conducted in this mandapam only during Brahmothsavams.

The homams, yagas connected with all the other activities like Jyeshtabhishekam, Pavitra Utsavam, Pushpayagam, and the special pooja that are being conducted every Monday, daily Kalyana Utsavam are now being held in, sampangi mandapam.

Every Wednesday, Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam is performed to the Chief Idol in the morning. During this particular pooja yagam is conducted on a stage near Golden Door

Yagno yagna patiryajwa
Yagnango yagna vaahanaha
Yagna Bhrudyagna kridagnee
Yagna Bhugyagna Saadhanaha
Yagnanthakrid yagna Guhya
Mana Mannada Eva Cha

-Vishnu Sahasra Namam

Because of the yagna performed by sage Bhrigu, Lord Vishnu took human form and started dwelling in Tirumala which is being praised as Vykunttam on earth. Lord Vishnu’s Consort Sri Maha Lakshmi as Alamelu Manga, too was born in Narayanavanam which is considered to be the edge of Venkatachala mountain. She was born in Yagna Bhoomi of Akasaraju. From the house of Akasa Raju, She walked into the Abode of Lord Venkateswara which is known as Ananda Nilayam.

Ananda Nilayam Tirumala — Ananda Nilayam, Tirumala Temple

From that day Alamelu Manga became His Consort. Lord Venkateswara assumed the name of Srinivasa. Srinivasa is fulfilling all the desires of His devotees.

The Yagasala is within the precincts (the area within the walls or perceived boundaries of a particular building or place) of the temple. The Yagasala is the place where the marriage between Srinivasa and Alamelu Manga was solemnized. Since time immemorial yagnas have been conducted keeping in mind the general welfare of the people. Lord Venkateswara Himself is everything.

He is Kartha, Karma as well as Kriya. Let us bow our heads before Lord Venkateswara who readily answers all sincere prayers of His devotees.

Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!

TTD Namami Govinda Panchagavya Products

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Panchagavyas

The cow has great prominence in our Vedic culture. The cow dung, urine, milk, curd, and ghee given by the cow to mankind are well-known as invaluable Panchagavyas. TTD is manufacturing 15 kinds of Ayurveda products with these Panchagavyas. Devotees can buy the products and make their livelihood healthy by using them.

Click here to read the article “Panchgavya: A precious gift to Humankind”.

Namami Govinda

The TTD has started manufacturing “Panchagavya” products for the use of mankind. Every product marketed under the brand name of “Namami Govinda” has been designed and created with care and ingredients sourced from the native breed cows maintained by TTD.

The “Namami Govinda” range of Panchagavya based herbal products is an effort of TTD to reach the benefits of panchagavya to the community at large

Click here to order from the TTD Official Website

Dhupam Products

TTD produces 5 kinds of dhupam products, namely—

Avani dhupa churnam,
Dharani Agarbathi,
Dhatri Sambrani cups,
Vaishnavi Dhupam sticks, and
Varahi Dhupam cones.

The dhupam made of elements like black aloe wood, cow dung, etc., reduces the air pollution caused by micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses and creates an atmosphere of holiness.

Prithvi-Vibhuthi

As per the ancient texts, Vibhuthi is prepared by incinerating the cow dung, grass, camphor, and cow ghee in “Panchabhutatmaka Homa gundas. It is auspicious to wear the mark of this vibhuti on the forehead. It is good for health also.

Dhanshika Tooth Powder

It is produced with ingredients like Cow-dung ash, rock salt (Saindhava Lavan), Cloves (Lavang), Amalaki (Indian myrobolan), and other herbs according to the ancient Ayurveda Medicinal Science. Regular use of tooth powder prevents diseases of the mouth, gums, and teeth.

Hiranmayi Herbal Face-pack

The herbal face-pack is developed with the herbs like turmeric (Haridra), manjishta, and Lodra. If applied on the face, it clears the acne, blackheads, and black circles beneath the eyes, and improves the color and complexion of a person.

Mahi Herbal Soap

It is a natural soap prepared with cow urine distillate, Nalpamaradi tailam, and other invaluable herbal medicines. It is formulated to protect the skin, improve the glow, color, and complexion, prevent acne, and eradicate disease-causing microbes in the skin.

Kashyapi Herbal Shampoo

It is prepared with ingredients like cow urine distillate (Go Ark), Shikakai, and coconut oil. It is a natural hair wash and conditioner to protect the hair and prevent dandruff.

Urvi Nasal drops

It is prepared with cow dung, cow’s milk, and gingel oil. By instilling two or three of these drops in lukewarm condition into two nostrils in the early hours of the day, we can be relieved of migraine and recurrent colds. It improves the functional ability of the eyes, ears, and nose.

Nandini Go-arka

Go arka is prepared with freshly collected Cow urine from indigenous breeds by distillation method condensing the vapors into arka (distillate) with the help of Arka yantra (Distillation plant). All over the world, Go-arka is used internally to prevent cancer, respiratory problems, and skin diseases. (It improves longevity and quality of life of healthy).

Bhumi Herbal Floor-Cleaner

It is formulated with natural ingredients like Go-Arka (cow urine distillate), lemongrass oil, and pine oil. It cleanses the floor of all the dirt and eradicates disease-causing microbes. It has also a good fragrance.

Kshama cow dung cakes and Bhuvathi Cowdung logs

These are prepared from cow dung, husk, and wood powder. They are used in the conduct of Homas and Yagnas. It is also considered best to use them in the act of cremation.

Note: Agarabathis and Photo frames are made with the flowers used for daily rituals at Srivari temple, Tirumala, and other local temples. These are very sacred. Devotees can buy all these products and be blessed by the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.

Agarbathis

The Sanatana Dharma says that offering the Dhupa to God in daily worship is auspicious, sanctifies the surroundings, and creates a spiritual atmosphere. In the regular household pujas and special rituals, offering incense sticks is an important practice in Indian tradition. The offered flowers (Nirmalya-pure) to Srivaru at Tirumala and other TTD temples of Tirupati are collected every day and used in the preparation of seven different varieties of Agarbathis (Incense sticks).

Photo Frames and Other Products

The offered flowers (Nirmalya-pure) to Srivaru at Tirumala and other TTD temples of Tirupati are also used for other noble purposes like preparing photo-frames of the Lord, key chains, paperweights, dollars, and pen stands by using dry flower technology under the caption of “Pushpa prasadam”. The preservation of the most auspicious offered flowers with devotees in different forms is an innovative idea by adopting scientific methods under the technical collaboration of Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Tirupati.

Govinda! Govinda!! Govinda!!!