Hathiramji Mutt matam is still an important landmark in the Tirumala temple precincts. This contains the Samadhi of the various Pithadipathis of this matam and also some shrines where exquisite sculptures of Dasavatara etc., are displayed.
There is here also an antique painting showing the playing of chess by Lord Venkateswara with one of the persons connected with the matam.
Hathiramji Mutt – Location
This is situated to the south of Srivari temple at a higher place. Hathiramji Mutt is very familiar since 500 years in Tirumala.
This Mutt was founded by ‘Hathiramji’. He was also called ‘Bavaji’. That’s why this Mutt is known as Hathiramji Mutt.
Bavaji playing dice with Lord Venkateswara
There is also a painting depicting Bavaji playing dice with Lord Venkateswara. He was an ardent devotee who became instrumental in the demonstration of the mysterious sports of Lord Venkateswara.
Swami Testing Hathiramji’s devotion
Hatiramji’s devotion was tested by the Lord many times. Swami disguised himself many times to test ‘Ram’. At last, Ram was vexed with these incidents and he started to step down the hills, at that time the Lord Himself depicted as ‘Avvachaarikona’ stopped Ram.
- This Mutt propagates Sriman Ramanuja’s tradition. This Mutt was protected by the Mahants in the earlier period by Britishers.
- Sri Seva Das,
- Sri Dharma Das,
- Sri Bhagawan Das,
- Sri Mahabheerdas,
- Sri Ramakrishna Das and
- Sri Prayagdas were important among these Mahants.
Now as Choultry
At present, this is converted into a choultry letting out rooms for pilgrims. There are fine mandapams and niches installed with the portraits and icons of the adorable deities.
