Tag: seven hills

Tirumala Hills (Seven 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 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

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.

Importance of Tirumala Hills

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.

Tirumala Hills - Seven Hills

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.

Bhu Varaha Swamy, Tirumala - Varaha Kshetram

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

  1. ‘Giriya Sikharavakande’
  2. ‘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.

Glory of Lord Venkateswara - Tirupati Balaji

Glory of Lord Venkateswara – Tirupati Balaji

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Glory of Tirupati Balaji

Lord Sri Venkateswara is the supreme God. Devotees across the world throng the holy shrine in Tirumala throughout the year to offer their vows on fulfillment of their wishes. A glimpse of God even for a few seconds will make them forget their travails of the journey.

Bhakta Sulabha

Generally, it is believed that God is in his heaven quite far away from this world and it is very difficult to reach Him unless one follows an austere course of conduct involving shama, dama, niyama, pratyahara, pranayama, etc., and performs yajnas, yagas and vratas.

This may be true of God in his Para, Vyuha, Vibhava, Antaryamin forms, but not in the case of Archavatara. God assumes the form of an image or idol for the sake of humanity and comes within their reach.

Lord Vishnu reclines on Adi Sesh in Vaikuntha as His three consorts—Sri Devi, Bhu Devi, and Neela Devi gladly press His feet. He has come down to Seshadri on the earth as Lord Venkateswara. He answers the prayers of devotees who worship Him sincerely and wholeheartedly.

Hence, He is befittingly called Bhakta Sulabha or Bhakta Varada. It is believed that Brahma, Rudra, Indra, Maruth, Arka, and other angels and saints throng the temple of Tirumala to witness the underlying treasure and energy unveiled in the form of Tirupati Balaji – Lord Venkateswara.

Divine Significance of the Locale

Every part of Tirumala is miraculous and invested with divine significance. Though Tirumala is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, it is not proper to visit Tirumala for a pleasure trip to enjoy its scenic beauty. In doing so, we miss the spiritual significance of Tirumala.

It is assumed that the angels and saints have become the boulders, brooks, waterfalls, trees, and animals on Tirumala to be close to the Lord and stay blessed either in the animate or inanimate form. That is why, we should regard every part of the locale with great reverence.

The entire hill is a boon-giver. One can perceive it if one opens one’s “third eye”, the inner eye of wisdom with all one’s devotional fervour.

Kundalini Shakti

There are seven hills in Tirumala, namely—

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

They are regarded as the incarnation of thousand-hooded Adi Sesha. Adi Sesha, the serpent bed of the Lord, is a symbol of Kundalini energy.

The seven hills are symbols of its awakening from muladhara chakra through swadhishthana, manipuraka, anahata, vishuddha, ajnya to sahasrara leading to the explosion of wisdom in the form of unlimited brilliance.

Tirupati Balaji Temple
View of Ananda Nilayam and Fountain which is on the back side of the temple – Tirupati Balaji

Tirumala Hills – Heaven on Earth

Tirumala is regarded as the ultimate heaven, Paramapada, heaven on the earth in Kaliyuga. Lord Venkateswara is regarded as Kalki, the tenth incarnation of God. He is especially here to save humanity from the evil effects of Kaliyuga.

It is said, Kalou Sri Venkata Nayakah. The devotees believe that there is no need to go on a pilgrimage to any place other than Tirumala because Tirumala is the epitome of all holy shrines. It fulfils all the desires of the devotees.

It is believed that there has not been any temple equivalent to Venkatadri in the entire world either in the past or present and there will not be any in the future as enunciated in the shloka “Venkatadri samasthanam Brahmande Nastikinchana..”.

Origin of Seshachala

There are a few legends connected to the origin of Seshachala on the earth. According to Varaha Purana, Lord Vishnu incarnates Himself as Adi Varaha and rescues the Earth from Hiranyaksha by killing him.

On the plea of Brahma and other angels, He decides to stay on the earth for the welfare of humanity. He orders Brahma to recreate the world as before. He asks his Vahana Garuda to fetch Kridachala from Vaikuntha and place it in a chosen sacred spot near the Suvarnamukhi River. It is to the east of Swami Pushkarini now.

This Kridachala is the present Seshachala. Another legend says that once in Dvapara Yuga, Adi Sesha resisted the entry of Wind- God Vayu into Vaikuntha as Lord Vishnu was in solitude with His consort Lakshmi.

Angry Vayu challenges Adi Sesha for a duel to test their power. Adi Sesha ties himself to the Meru mountain and asks Vayu to move the mountain if he can. After a long trial when Vayu seemed to relent, Adi Sesha heaves a sigh and lifts his hood as a sign of victory.

Seizing the opportunity, Vayu blows off one of the peaks of Meru which lands near the Swarnamukhi River. Adi Sesha comes down to merge with it on the advice of Vishnu. Thus, the peak of Meru gets the name Seshachalam on which Lord Venkateswara resides.

Five Forms of Vishnu

According to VaicGava theology, VicGu has five forms of manifestation, namely –

  1. para,
  2. vyuha,
  3. vibhava,
  4. antaryamin and
  5. archa.
  • The para (transcendent) form is Vasudeva, the Supreme Being, beyond the reach of human experience.
  • The vyuha (emanative) form is his functional manifestation as the creator, protector and destroyer of the universe.
  • The vibhava (incarnate) is the physical form in which he descends into the world.
  • The antaryamin (immanent) is the indweller of the jiva.
  • Finally, the archa form is His manifestation in the iconic form receiving ritualistic worship from them in temples and their homes.
Sri Venkateswara Swamy - 108 Divya Desams
Lord Venkateswara is in the archa form on Tirumala in the standing (sthanaka) posture on a lotus pedestal.

Ancient References to the Lord

We find references to Lord Venkateswara in Varaha Purana, Brahmanda Purana, and Bhavishyottara Purana. The first verifiable reference to the place is found in Silappadikaram, a Tamil treatise on grammar. References to the Vengadam hill are found in the Tolkappiyam (fifth century B. C.) and Sangam poet Mamulanar of the second century.

A subsequent work of the same century, llango Adigal’s Silappadikaram, however, refers both to the Vengadam hill and the blue-hued Vishnu who holds the weapons shankha and chakra in his arms. Subsequently, at least ten of the twelve Alwars have sung the praises of the Lord of Tirupati.

Alvars - Lord Venkateswara Swamy - Tirupati Balaji
Alvars On Lord Venkateswara Swamy (Tirupati Balaji) – Tirumala

Many devotees like Annamayya, Purandaradasu, Vengamamba, Tyagaraju, and others have sung His glory and resorted to His nama parayana or sankirtana.

Other Precepts of Vishismadvaita

Besides the above, Vishismadvaita advocates the glorification of

  • Lord’s abhaya hasta (the hand of assurance) and feet,
  • Sripada tirtham (consecrated water of Lord’s feet),
  • Tirumani (a kind of white clay used in making the sectarian mark of a Srivaishnava),
  • chakrankitas or mudra (the mark of the discus and the conch pressed on the shoulders of a Srivaishnava),
  • Saranagati (self-surrender or seeking refuge with the Lord),
  • acarya nishmha (commitment to the preceptor),
  • bhagavata nishtha and kainkaryam (commitment and service to the devotees of the Lord),
  • mangalasasanam to the Lord (auspicious benediction upon the Lord) and others.
Varaha Kshetram - Manifestation of Sri MahaVishnu

Varaha Kshetram – Manifestation of Sri MahaVishnu

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Varaha Kshetram

The Seven Hills of Tirumala in total is being called ‘Varaha Kshetram‘. Sri Venkateswara Swami and Sri Varaha Swami temples are located here.

Having the first darshan of Lord Varaha Swami, the darshan of Sri Venkateswara Swami later by the devotees has been a practice for several years and is the specialty of this Kshetram. Then only fruitful results will be obtained for their visit to the Sacred Tirumala hills.

Sthala Puranam

The sthala mahatmyam of the temple of Sri Venkateswara is called ‘Sri Venkatachala Mahatmyam’. This is mentioned in several puranas like Varaha, Padma, Garuda, Brahma, Markandeya, Vamana, Brahmottara, Skanda, Aditya, Bhavishyottara and Harivamsa. Out of these, the most important are Varaha and Bhavishyottara puranas.

Sveta Varaha Kalpa

The 33rd Chapter of “Sri Varaha Purana” describing Sveta-Varaha’s slaying Hiranyaksha forms the first Chapter of “Sri Venkatachala Mahatmyam”. The sthala purana mentions a conference of all rishis, and munis at Naimisaranya, where Suta, the apara vedavyasa was asked to describe to the assembled saints about the pre-eminent kshetras sacred to Sri Mahavishnu.

The 36th Chapter of “Sri Varaha Purana” describes the divine grandeur of Sri Sveta Varaha Swami, who chose his abode on the Kridadri and forms the 4th Chapter of “Sri Venkatachala Mahatmyam”.

In as much as the hill is dearer to God and is encircled by the sacred crest, here lies the certainty of fructification of human efforts in the different spiritual fields, such as Mantra, Tapas, Yagna, Kamya and other siddhis (acquisitions) and no obstacles intervene. Even small deeds on this hill tend to the attainment of the desired objects. All holy tirthas abound on this hill.

A constant worshipper with faith and devotion, who desires knowledge obtains knowledge; who longs for riches acquires much gold; who desires children begets sons; who covets kingdom secures a state; who wishes for the removal of bodily deformity derives a perfect and lovely physique; and likewise whatever men may desire that they shall obtain.

Through various causes, the kridadri have different names for their significance and they are as follows:-

  • Chintamani,
  • Gnanadri,
  • Tirthadri,
  • Pushkaradri,
  • Vrishadri or Dharmadri,
  • Kanakadri,
  • Narayanadri,
  • Vaikuntadri,
  • Simhachala,
  • Anjanadri,
  • Varahadri (for its being Varaha kshetra in it),
  • Nilagiri,
  • Venkatadri,
  • Srinivasagiri,
  • Anandadri,
  • Sri-saila.

It possesses also admirable powers as multitudinous as God himself.

Its mahima is indescribable even by the four-faced Brahma, the six-faced Subrahmanya, the thousand-eyed Indra, or the thousand-hooded Adisesha. The rishis of Naimisaranya expressed their curiosity to Suta to know more. In addition to this, some engraved inscriptions on the pillars were found in the Tirumala temple.

There are other innumerable collections of legends and stories about Tirumala and the presiding God Sri Venkateswara or Srinivasa. Most of the incidents in the sthalapurana describe the sanctity and the greatness of the Hills of Tirumala and the numerous tirthas situated on them.

Varaha_and_Hiranyaksha

According to Legend…

Hiranyaksha was filled with pride, He once met Narada Maharshi and asked him “Is there anyone stronger than me”, then Narada replied, “Yes, There exists Lord Vishnu, who is stronger than you”. Hiranyaksha started searching for Lord Vishnu everywhere, but he couldn’t find him. He searched the whole earth and went underwater to Paatal Loka also for Lord Vishnu.

All the Gods were worried and rushed to Lord Vishnu for help. Oh! Lord! Please save us, Hiranyaksha has taken the earth and disappeared”. The Lord replied “Don’t worry, I know Hiranyaksha has taken the earth to paatal Loka. I’ll soon get the earth back to its position”. Then Lord Vishnu took the form of SwetaVaraha, a white boar with two curved tusks.

Lord then went to paatal loka. There was darkness in the depths in which the Earth was submerged. There, He found the earth hidden under seven underground worlds. Sri Varaha Swami fought and challenged Hiranyaksha. Hiranyaksha used many weapons, but it did not affect Lord Vishnu. Finally, Lord Vishnu directed his Chakra to Hiranyaksha, Chakra separated his head from the body. Hiranyaksha died then and there. Thus, Lord Vishnu relieved him from his curse.

Varaha Kshetram - Saving Earth with Tusks

Balancing the earth between the snout and the curved tusks, Lord Varaha brought Bhu Devi (earth) out of the depths of darkness and out of the deadly waters. As he rose out of the waters with the earth safe, those who witnessed the event praised God with gratitude. Then, the Varaha Swami placed her in the middle of the seas and supported her with his power.

Lord Sri Venkateswara took up residence in Tirumala, with the permission of Sri Varaha swami, and granted Lord Varaha, the privilege of first view (Darshan), and first Naivedyam. According to the legend, Tirumala was originally the Adi Varahakshetra. According to Brahma Purana, Naivedyam should first be offered to Sri Varaha swami. Pilgrims should visit Sri Adi Varahaswami temple before Sri Venkateswara Swami temple.

According to Atri Samhita, Varaha Avatara is worshipped in three ways

  1. Adi Varaha,
  2. Pralaya Varaha,  and
  3. Yajna Varaha.

SRI VARAHASWAMI TEMPLE AT TIRUMALA

It is located to the north of the Sri Venkateswara Swami temple on the banks of Swami Pushkarini. The presiding deity is Sri Varaha Swami, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in the form of a Svetha Varaha (white boar) that was staying on the hills when the Lord Mahavishnu descended to earth.

The Bhuvarahaswami in the Sanctum holds Chakra and Sankha in his hands seated on the surface of 2’ height and faces north having Bhudevi in his left-hand side.

Bhu Varaha Swamy, Tirumala - Varaha Kshetram

In addition to this idols of 1’ in height Panchaloha Varaha and Sri Srinivasa, some salagrams can be seen. Further 1’ height copper plated yantra, which is in chaturasrakara shape. This is in brahmi script and may be a danapatram written by Sri Venkateswara Swami. While entering the temple’s Garbhagriha we come across Lord Vishvaksena and Ramanujacharya. We can observe Vishvaksena’s Idol on the right side of the temple’s Garbhagriha and Ramanujacharya Idol to the left of temple’s Garbhagriha.

There is no dwajasthambam in this temple. As such daily poojas archana, an offering of naivedyam three times a day is being conducted as per Vaikhanasa Agama. The annaprasadams are prepared in the kitchen of Sri Venkateswara Swami temple, first to Sri Varaha Swami and later to Lord Srinivasa.

In the year 1982 from April 21 to 26 Mahasamprokshanam was conducted. The height of the dias of the presiding deity was increased. Golden makara thoranam to Swamivaru was arranged. A big golden vimana, kalasa pratistaphana programmes were performed grandly.

The Varaha Swami temple was well constructed as per agama and vastu sastras. It was divided into four parts viz., mukha mandapam antaralayam and Garbha griha. The sanctity and
the beauty of the temple attracts Pilgrims.

On the last day of every year of ‘Srivari Brahmotsavams’ i.e. Sravana star day on the eve of chakra snanam Sri Venkateswara Swami along with Sridevi and Bhudevi and Chakrattalwar come to Mukha mandapam of Sri Varaha Swami temple in a procession. After panchamrutha snapana tirumanjanam, chakrasnanam will be performed in the sacred waters of Swami pushkarini to the processional deities.

Chakra Snanam - Tirumala
Chakra Snanam during Brahmotsavams in Swamy Vari Pushkarini – Beside Varaha Swamy temple – Tirumala

The archakas, vedaparayanadars, mathadhipathis, higher officials of TTD., employees, men, women, and children devotees in large numbers take baths in the waters. Similarly, on Rathasapthami and Mukkoti dwadasi days only Chakrattalwar will come to this Mukhamandapam. After the abhishekham, the bath will be performed in the sacred waters of Swamipushkarini.

Have the blessings of Lord Sweta-Varahaswami and Sri Srinivasa residing on Sacred Tirumala Hills

Varam Svetavarahakhyam
samharam Dharanidharam
Swava dhamshtrabhyam
dharodharam Srinivasam bhajeanisam

Possessing a high-strength body, the killer of demon Hiranyaksha, who snatched away Bhudevi, the saver of bhumi (Earth) with his curved tusks, we always pray Sweta-Varahaswami and Lord Srinivasa!!