Tiruchanur (also known as Alamelu Mangapuram) is a suburb and neighborhood of Tirupati and is located in Tirupati district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh
The temple town of Tiruchanur located at the base of Tirumala is the abode of Goddess Padmavathi Devi, the divine consort of Lord Srinivasa. To the millions of devotees pouring in from all over the world, the pilgrimage to the Seven Hills begins with the ‘darshan’ of the Devi.
Once they are showered with the blissful grace of the Divine Mother, they feel confident of approaching the Lord on the Hills. They pray to the Goddess to make their Tirumala Yatra fruitful and entreat Her to intervene on their behalf and secure the Lord’s ‘darshan’ and blessings for them.
The prayer of Swami Desikan throws light on the significant role of the Divine Mother in protecting the world. She is the consort who is ever-present with the Almighty. She is the compassionate one who is incapable of punishing anyone. It can be said that She is the personification of benevolence.
Tiruchanur is constantly humming with daily ‘pujas’, ‘archana’ and the endless flow of the devotees. Kalyanothsavam is performed every day like on the Seven Hillsand Fridays auspicious to the goddess, elaborate ‘abhishekam’ is performed.
Tiruchanur Karthika Brahmotsavam
The month of Karthika marks the day when the Goddess Padmavathi appeared in the Padma Sarovar, the temple tank. This celestial event is celebrated with an annual Brahmotsavam of ten days culminating in the Theerthavari on the sacred Panchami. On this holy ‘avatara’ day the priests invoke the bountiful grace of the Goddess for peace, prosperity and happiness to all.
This year Tiruchanur Karthika Brahmotsavam will be celebrated starting with Dwajarohanam on 28th November 2024 and concluding with the Panchami Theertham on December 6th 2024. The Gaja Vahanam special to the Goddess will be on 2nd December 2024.
Lakhs of devotees will be present to enjoy the festivities while millions who cannot be there will get blissful ‘darshan’ from their homes through the SVBC telecast. The live coverage brings beautiful visuals of the temple Rajagopuram, the glittering gold inlaid Vimanam, the gorgeous decorations, the sacred Pushkarini, the Vahana Sevas, Prabandha and the chanting of the Vedas, dance and musical performances of the devotees.
More importantly, the TV coverage gives us ‘darshan’ of the glowing form of the goddess giving a personalized special satisfaction that can’t be experienced even when we are physically present there in the big crowd.
Lord Sriman Narayana incarnates in the various ‘yugas’ in different forms and in all these incarnations His divine consort Sri Mahalakshmi also assumes suitable roles to be with Him for the welfare of the world. In the Lord’s ‘archa avatara’ as Lord Srinivasa, the divine consort was born as Akasha Rajas’s daughter Padmavathi Devi and married Lord Srinivasa.
The very name of Sri Mahalakshmi is commonly associated with worldly riches. But to understand the real significance of Her grace one must look at the eight different forms in which She is worshipped. All these are representations in iconography to explain the numerous ways in which Her abundant grace manifests.
‘Adi Lakshmi’ is the primordial form of the Goddess who is with the Almighty when He creates the entire universe which He does for Her pleasure and per Her desire. The origin of all life is from the Divya Dampatulu (Divine couple). When the Lord makes various incarnations the Goddess too takes various suitable forms to participate in all His ‘leelas’ and to protect us.
‘Dhana Lakshmi’ is the Goddess of wealth who bestows the resources needed by us for pursuing our ‘sanatana dharma.’ Taking care of the family, contributing to social and religious activities are the duties of all householders for which we pray for abundant income.
‘Dhaanya Lakshmi’ grants abundance of food grains and bountiful harvests. Food sustains all life and copious rains ensure food security and freedom from hunger and famines.
Goddess Padmavathi is presiding in the form of ‘Gaja Lakshmi’ at Tiruchanur. The resplendent, regal ‘archa moorthy’ seated on a golden lotus is worshipped by two elephants on either side. This captures the incarnation of the goddess in the Padma Sarovar, the temple tank when She was worshipped by celestial elephants with ‘abhishekam’ and floral garlands. Gaja Lakshmi is the symbol of power and strength.
‘Santhana Lakshmi’ is the form of the Divine Mother that grants the boon of good progeny. We all want our children to have good health, and character and pray that they follow traditions in the path of their elders.
The course of life in this world is rough and we face various trials and problems. To face these challenges we require mental strength and faith which is granted by ‘Dhairya Lakshmi’. The mercy of the Goddess follows us like an umbrella sheltering us from torrid heat or like a boat that sails through the turbulent sea. We are assured victory in our rightful pursuits by ‘Vijaya Lakshmi’.
There are numerous fields of knowledge and expertise necessary for our material and spiritual progress. We pray to ‘Vidya Lakshmi’ to bless us with success in all our endeavours. Let us offer obeisance to Sri Padmavathi Devi, the consort of Lord Srinivasa, who is the Mother of the Universe and is the personification of the Lord’s grace. May She bless us with the milk of spiritual wisdom!
Tiruchanur, the divine domain of Goddess Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, is one of the highly exalted places in Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru is situated 5 km from Tirupati town and is exclusively dedicated to Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, the consort of Lord Sri Venkateswara.
Tiruchanur Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Kartika Brahmotsavams 28-11-2024 to 06-12-2024
It attracts countless devotees who seek her blessings every day. The temple was established during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings in the 14th century, reflecting its architectural grandeur, and evoking a sense of awe and admiration.
Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, also known as Alamelu Manga, is the mother of auspiciousness, prosperity, and fertility. According to the sacred texts and tradition, the divine manifestation of the Goddess took place by emerging in a golden lotus from the ‘Padmasarovaram’, the sacred lake, surrounded by lush greenery adorned with picturesque lotus flowers.
Karthika Brahmotsavam
This is why devotees often take holy dips in the Padmasarovaram to perform rituals and offer prayers to the Goddess as it is considered to have purifying properties and is auspicious to bathe in its waters. As described in the Padma Purana, Sri Padmavati Ammavaru rises on the Golden Lotus in the auspicious month of Karthika on Shukla Paksha Panchami when the star Uttarashada ascends.
This event is well known as the ‘Karthika Brahmotsavam’, celebrating Sri Padmavati Ammavaru’s birth, also known as Aavirbhava Dinotsavam, uniting the devotees to showcase their communal celebration and seek spiritual solace.
This temple’s sacred proceedings are practised as per the tenets of one of the most revered Agama, the Pancharatra Agama. This Agama is believed to be taught by Lord Sri Venkateswara himself to five divine personalities in five nights.
5 Personalities
The five personalities are
Ananta, the Serpent King,
Garuda, the king of Birds,
Commander in Chief Lord Vishwaksena,
Chatur Mukha Brahma and
Lord Parameshwara.
The annual Brahmotsavam unfolds over nine days, and each day is meticulously planned with an array of rituals designed to invoke divine blessings. The event commences with the ceremonial flag hoisting, known as Dwajarohana, at the Dwajastambha.
The flag is uniquely adorned with the symbol of an elephant, representing auspiciousness, deep affection, and reverence it holds for the Goddess. In many Vishnu temples, it is customary for Garuda, the divine eagle, to serve as the mount to the Lord; thus, the flag also features his emblem during the hoisting ceremony.
Hence, this symbolism enriches the ritual highlighting the endearment to the Goddess. The event proceeds further with the Ankurarpana, a ceremony of planting seeds in the divine land of Bhuma Devi for prosperity, while the deity of the Commander in Chief, Vishwaksena, is carried around the circumambulation path to make sure the event is functioning effectively.
Sri Padmavati Ammavari Brahmotsavams – Vahana Sevas
First Day
The very first Vahana Seva of the Brahmotsavam takes place on the evening of the first day. The Chinna Sesha Vahana, also known as Vasuki, the female serpent, is designated as the divine vehicle, marking a significant moment in the ceremony. The Vahana is embellished with intricate designs and vibrant flowers.
Second Day
On the morning of the second day, Ammavaru mounts the Pedda Sesha Vahana, the male serpent, symbolizing strength and protection. As she graces her devotees, the goddess is seen displaying her Abhaya Varada Hasta, a gesture of reassurance and blessing.
On the night of the second day, Sri Padmavati Ammavaru elegantly mounts the Hamsa Vahana, the majestic swan. Ammavaru is attired as Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, holding a finely crafted Veena in her hand, embodying the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.
Third-Day
The Vahana Seva on the third day commences with the Muthyapu Pandiri Vahana, where Ammavaru is ornamented with radiant pearls that serve as Talambralu, the sacred rice traditionally used in Telugu wedding ceremonies.
In the evening, Ammavaru majestically rides the Simha Vahana, a powerful symbol of courage and might, showcasing her strength and fierce protection over her worshippers.
Fourth Day
On the morning of the fourth day, Alamelumanga transforms into the divine attire of Lord Krishna, in the Kalpavriksha Vahana, holding a sword and a Yogadanda, committing to safeguard the cows.
In the evening, Lord Hanuman is delegated as Sri Padmavati’s divine vehicle, embodying strength, devotion and loyalty.
Fifth Day
On the morning of the fifth day, the Goddess of lotus royally mounts the Pallaki, the palanquin, in her Mohini Avataram, her hair elegantly braided with an ornate design featuring Surya and Chandra, the Sun and the Moon respectively, casting a celestial glow around her.
In the evening, the cherished Gaja, or the elephant, serves as the majestic vehicle for Padmavati Ammavaru, and takes her on a stroll around the temple, signifying the blessings of abundance and sovereignty.
Sixth Day
On the sixth day of Vahana Seva, the festivities commence with the Sarvabhupala Vahana, where Ammavaru is gracefully carried aloft as she embodies the beloved daughter of the Sea and the Lord of all rivers.
Pilgrims gather to worship her on this auspicious occasion believing that their devotion can lead to the attainment of power and immense wealth.
Lord Sri Venkateswara’s vehicle, Garuda, sets out to be Ammavaru’s vahana for the evening, on the sixth day of the Vahana Seva. Garuda, known for his capability of overcoming any adversary, and serving the god in his battles against evil, is embellished with exquisite ornaments to shimmer in the temple lights.
Surya, the Sun, is the designated chariot for Ammavaru on the seventh day in the morning, radiating brilliance, energy, and vitality, and reflecting his sun rays, on the seventh day in the morning.
Similarly in the evening, Chandra, the moon, takes Ammavaru around the circumambulation path, symbolizing tranquillity, as his luminous yet calming rays soothe the devotees with serenity.
Eighth Day
The eighth day commences with Rathotsavam. During this festivity, Ammavaru’s towering chariot is studded with ornaments and decorated with flowers, and colorful silk fabrics, reflecting the splendor of Sri Padmavati.
This Ratha is surrounded by a large number of devotees to witness the procession, as the chariot is drawn through the temple streets.
As night falls, the final vahana of Sri Padmavati Ammavari Brahmotsavams is Ashwa, the divine horse. It is believed that the Ashwa had witnessed the sacred union of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati.
Ninth Day
The ninth day of the festival, revered as the most auspicious by women, is celebrated as Panchami Teertham, also known as Chakra Snanam.
Devotees from around the globe eagerly partake in this sacred tradition, immersing themselves in the serene waters of Padmasarovaram.
This day holds special significance for worshippers, as it is believed to commemorate the miraculous emergence of Goddess Padmavati from the sacred pond on a golden lotus, marking the divine communion between the Lord and the Goddess.
Offerings from the Lord
The festivities of the Panchami Teertham commence early in the morning with the welcoming of the ‘Saare’, brought forth by the Ekangis, who arrive bearing exquisite gifts for the Lord’s Pattapuraani. The Saare, a royal basket, is filled with vibrant turmeric, royally scented sandalwood, fresh fruits, luxurious silk fabrics, and fragrant holy basil leaves—all of which have been lovingly applied to the Lord Himself.
The Saare holds a place of great significance during Panchami Teertham, as the holy basket is carefully balanced atop the Ekangi’s head, embodying devotion and auspiciousness. The Ekangis carry the saare from Tirumala to Alipiri along the sacred steps and take the path via the ‘Komalamma choultry’ to honour Komalamma, en route to Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple.
Komalamma was an ardent devotee of the Lord. Back in the day, Komalamma played a pivotal role in establishing a choultry for devotees travelling to Tirumala, ensuring that accommodation facilities were accessible and welcoming for all. This choultry used to be on the outskirts of Tirupati.
From here, the Ekangi rides on an elephant, bearing gifts from Srivaru in a basket filled with turmeric, vermillion, pleasantly scented sandal, Srivari Laddu, vada, appam, and jilebi. A Paricharaka sits behind him, gently swaying the flying whisk, also known as the Chamara, to preserve the fragrance of the offerings.
The elephant then comes to a halt in front of Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple, where they perform a Harati for the prasadam sent by the Lord before taking a stroll around the temple grounds.
The prasadam is then carried to Sri Govindaraja Temple, with the elephant following the route along Chinna Bazaar Street before descending the steps to reach the temple via Uttara Mada Street. A similar honour is offered to the elephant in front of the temple.
The elephant finally arrives at its destination, Pasupu / Turmeric Mandapam in Tiruchanur, after a majestic journey through the streets of Tirupati. The officials of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanamsand the archakas of the Tiruchanur Temple extend a warm welcome to the elephant outside the Pasupu Mandapam, celebrating its remarkable journey to deliver these precious presents from the Lord to the goddess.
In the past, people would grind the turmeric in this mandapam, believing it to bring prosperity and blessings into their lives. Following the Snapana Thirumanjanam of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru and the Sudarshana Chakra, Sri Shatari of the Ammavaru and Sudarshana Chakra are elegantly processioned to the Padmasarovaram.
During the auspicious moment of Abhijeet Lagna on Panchami, around noon, the archakas recite the sacred hymns from the Pancharatra Agama. They then immerse the deities in the Pushkarini, sanctifying the water. It is believed that Lord Sri Venkateswara himself comes to visit the Goddess from the Sarovaram, arriving on his Garuda Vahana.
An eagle is often seen flying around the sacred pond during the moment of Panchami Teertham, a miraculous event that continues to leave the devotees in awe. Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, revered as the mother of auspiciousness and fertility, bestows her blessings of abundance and prosperity upon her devotees.
It is said that, Purchasing turmeric and Vermilion from Tiruchanur on this sacred occasion is believed to promote health, wealth, and overall well-being, enriching one’s life with fruitful opportunities.
Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Karthika Brahmotsavam culminates on the ninth evening, with the spiritually significant event, the Dwajavarohanam, marking a grand conclusion to the celebrations.
Every married Hindu woman, mostly in the southern states of our country, propitiates the goddess Lakshmi on this most auspicious day in the month of Shravana. They pray to the goddess Varalakshmi (Lakshmi, the boon-giver)) to provide happiness, wealth, health and longevity to their husbands.
In other words, it is a prayer made by a woman not for herself but for the betterment of her family.
8 Forms of Goddess Lakshmi
Goddess Lakshmi has eight forms:
Adilakshmi,
Dhanya Lakshmi,
Dhairya Lakshmi,
Gaja Lakshmi,
Santhana Lakshmi,
Vijaya Lakshmi,
Vidya Lakshmi and
Dhana Lakshmi.
The other forms of Lakshmi are
Aishvarya Lakshmi,
Saubhgya Lakshmi,
Rajya Lakshmi and
Vara Lakshmi.
The devotees pray to each form of the goddess to have specific benefits from such prayers.
This year the Varalakshmi Vratam will be observed on 16.8.2024.
There are different forms of performing the Puja in different states. Generally, a Kalasham filled with water is placed on a wooden seat. A coconut duly decorated with turmeric, kumkum, and betel leaves, is placed on the Kalasham. It is further decorated with a cloth, ornaments and in some places, a replica of the face of the goddess is also placed.
After performing the puja with all the rituals, they read the story of the Vratam. They also tie a yellow thread on the right wrist. They read the story and conclude the Vratam.
Story of Varalakshmi Vratam
According to the legend, the story is narrated by Sutha Mahamuni to other rishis as was told by Lord Shiva to Parvati. She wanted the Lord to tell her about a Vratam which bestows the women with manifold boons including the growth of her family. Lord Shiva told her the story.
There was a lady named Charumathi in the kingdom of Magadh. Every day she used to get up in the morning at dawn, serve the elders and complete her household chores. She used to talk politely in a composed manner.
Pleased with her attributes, Maha Lakshmi appeared in her dream and advised her to perform her Puja on the auspicious Friday falling before the full moon in the month of Shravana. She invited her neighbours and performed the puja meticulously. Each one of them was blessed with bounties and they led happy lives thereafter.
Significance of Varalakshmi Vratam
During the months of Sravana and Bhadrapada, heavy rains are expected throughout the country. They generate bacteria and insects loom large. Women will apply turmeric to their body, face and hands before performing the Vratam, which will serve as an antibacterial and anti-fungal cream. They clean the house and decorate it with mango leaves which stop bad fumes from entering the houses.
This Vratam signifies a woman’s desire to have a healthy growth of her family filled with riches and happiness. She involves her children in the house decoration and imparts knowledge about the rituals being performed.
Performing this puja will bring happiness, peace and prosperity in abundance. The benediction of the Goddess provides not only wealth but also wisdom, health, and fearlessness for leading a fruitful life transcending the material world into a spiritual abode.
Namastestu Mahamaye Shree peete Sura poojithe Shanka Chakra Gadha Haste Maha Lakshmi Namostute
The annual festival Sri Varalakshmi Vratam is performed with religious fervor and gaiety by the TTD every year at Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple, in Tiruchanur. As part of the festival, Abhishekam for utsava murty will be performed in the morning and later the Utsava idol of Sri Padmavati ammavaru will be brought to the Astana Mandapam for the rituals of Sankalpam, Kalasha sthapana, Kumkumarchana, Vrata Vaishistam and ends with Maha Mangala Harathi.
The Asthana mandapam will be decorated colourfully with flowers and illuminated with lights. Later Sri Varamahalakshmi vratam will be performed in traditional style. The temple priest will narrate the legend of Varalakshmi vratam as glorified in the Skanda Puranam.
As part of the festival, the deity will be taken around on golden chariot on the four mada streets in the evening.
There are a few temples of Lord Suryanarayana Swamy in India. Among them, the temple in Tiruchanur is very ancient, historical and famous. Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy Himself installed the deity and worshipped Him in Tiruchanur.
Tiruchanur, the Divya Kshetram, is approx. at the distance of five kilometres away from Tirupati. Transport facilities are available from Tirupati. As per the ‘sthalapurana,’ in the olden days Sri Suka Maharshi lived in this place and was called as Sri Sukanoor.
In Tamil, Sri Sukanur is called as Thirugachanoor and later it became Tiruchanur. Tiruchanur is also known as Alimelu Mangapuram and Alimelu Mangapatnam.
The Temple Legend
As per the Puranas, in the olden days, Sapta rushis did a ‘Yagna’ for ‘Dharmarakshana.’ They gave the responsibility to Brughu Maharshi to select eligible ones among Trimurthis for offering ‘Yagna Havissu.’ Maharshi went to Satya Loka, Kailasa and decided that Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva were not eligible to take ‘Havissu’.
Then the maharshi went to Vaikuntam. At that time, Lord Vishnu spoke with Lakshmi and he did not mind Brughu Maharshi. With this, Maharshi became angry and he had kicked on the chest of Lord Vishnu with his leg. Then Lord Vishnu started doing seva for Brughu.
Goddess Lakshmi Devi by seeing all these, got hurt and came to the earth and stayed in Kolhapur. Lord Vishnu, who came to the earth in search of Lakshmi Devi, didn’t find Her. He stayed in Venkatadri for some time. One day Srinivasa heard some unknown voice from the sky: “Build a lake in the area of Sri Shuka Maharshi’s ‘ashram’ on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi and do penance there, your wish will be fulfilled.”
After hearing the voice, Lord Srinivasa reached Tiruchanur and built ‘Padmasarovaram’ (pushkarini) and launched the lotuses brought from heaven into that lake. He enshrined Lord Surya and worshipped Him. He spent twelve years doing penance there. After that, Mahalakshmi appeared to Swami at Padmasarovaram.
In this way, the ‘sthalapurana’ reveals that Sri Venkateswara Swamy Himself enshrined Lord Suryanarayana in Tiruchanur.
Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple Structure
In Tiruchanur, the temple of Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy is facing towards the west in the eastern side of Pushkarini known as Padma Sarovaram. The temple has ‘mukhamandapam,’ ‘ardha mandapam’ and ‘garbhalayam.’ Arthamandapam is attached to Pradakshina Mandapam.
In the main ‘garbhalayam’ of the temple, Lord Sri Surya Bhagavan is seen in standing posture with two hands and wearing lotuses in both hands, showering blessings on the devotees. The Lord stands on ‘Padma Peetha’ and wears crowns, garlands, ‘yajnopaveetam’ and ‘kankanas.’ In ‘garbhalaya’ one can see the ‘utsavamurti’, which is about three and a half feet high, along with Mulavirattu (main deity).
History
Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy has been worshipped in Tiruchanur since the 6th and 7th centuries. The temple flourished during the rule of the Vijayanagara emperors. It seems that in 1866, during the administration of the Mahants, Dharmadasu Ji Mahant built a new temple and reconsecrated the Lord. This temple is currently under the administration of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.
Some Beliefs
There are many beliefs among the devotees about the Lord. There is a widespread belief among the devotees that if one bathe in Padmasarovaram and worships Him, all diseases will be removed and health will be improved. Along with this, by visiting and worshipping the Lord, one’s wishes will be fulfilled and the lost things will be recovered.
Pujas and Festivals
Every Sunday, there is ‘Abhisheka Seva’ to Moolavirattu and every month Hasta star for ‘utsavamurti’ also along with daily pujas. Every month on the day of Hasta star, there is Pallaki Seva to the Lord. On the occasion of Rathasapthami and Makara Sankranti, special pujas, ‘abhishekas’ and ‘alamkarana’ are performed along with ‘gramotsavam’.
Transport facilities are available from Tirupati. May Lord Suryanarayana Swamy shower His graceful blessings on His devotees! It is said that one who worships the Lord in this temple will be freed from health-related problems. Have a visit to this temple on your trip and be blessed with health, wealth and prosperity.
Goddess Mahalakshmi – Alamelu Manga – Holy Pond – Miracle of Padma Sarovara
In the ancient holy land of Bharata Khanda, there were regions, which were famous by the names of kingdoms called Chappannar. There were 56 countries. Once upon a time, it was called Kambojadesam, named after the king Kamboja. But, over time, it was forgotten and nobody now remembers their names. It was a land of plentiful nature’s gifts.
With good crops, it was also known for excellence in Arts. There were great warriors and men with valour and women ready to sacrifice their ‘mangalya’ for a heroic cause. With plenty of wealth and splendour, each home was joyful. It was as if Goddess Mahalakshmi was living amongst them. Every home was a divine place- Vaikuntham.
Panchami Theertham Event at Padma Sarovar – Holy Pond in Tiruchanur
King Sankhana
At one time, it was ruled by a king called Sankhana. His valour was matched by his limitless generosity. With his kind-heartedness, he loved all the citizens of his country. He had one quality, i.e., he was amenable to any kind of advice without thinking of its consequences. As he was kind-hearted, he used to give away anything without thinking, even for a moment, whether the person to whom he was giving deserved it or not.
Naturally, because of this quality of misplaced generosity, he lost everything in his possession, including his kingdom; nobody cared for him. His sorrowful condition was because of his ill-fated personality. He was left in poverty. He was made to leave his kingdom along with his wife. Left in distress, he moved aimlessly like a vagabond.
Disgusted with himself, he used to wonder at his fate and uttered the following words to himself: “I was once an Emperor, with all the splendour and majesty. Now I am destitute. The world, for whom I have given so much of my wealth and comforts, is now looking down upon me. We cannot bear this condition. So, let us end this life”.
These words shocked his wife, who was devoted to him. She wept bitterly and prayed to God in these words: “Oh Lord Srimannarayana, if at all, You exist, spare my husband, protect him”. She also swore by the power of her mangal sutra, like this: “Oh Goddess of the world! Save my husband and my mangalya”.
Maybe, because of their past, noble deeds, they saw some holy men, when they were wandering on their aimless journey. Falling at their feet, they prayed like this, with these touching words.
There was a deep feeling in what they uttered: “Oh holy saints! You are our saviours. Only you can save us from our present sorrowful condition”.
Then, the holy men intuitively learnt about their past glory and present sorrow and uttered these words:
“All your sorrows are because of your fate. Nobody can escape the deeds of fate. Instead of bemoaning your sorrows, you can redeem your fate by taking a bath in holy places and visiting temples and worshipping God. Very soon, you will get your kingdom and all your sorrows will come to an end”.
With these words, the holy men went away after blessing them.
In such moments as these, affected by fate and feeling sad due to the sorrows of life, the value of meeting noble minds, and talking and interacting with them increases our faith in the goodness in this world.
The pleasures of this ‘SATWA’ are many; they lighten our hearts and give us new, enlightened thoughts and make us search for new pastures of hope and renewal of joy. Visiting holy shrines is also one such activity to clean our minds of evil thoughts and deeds.
Thus, the erstwhile king and his wife visited all the holy shrines:
In Srirangam, they took a holy dip in Cauvery and worshipped at the feet of His Holiness Shri Ranganathaswami and Jambukeswara.
In Madurai, they feasted their eyes by worshipping Goddess Meenakshi and their devotion knew no bounds when they visited the holy temples of Rameswaram.
With their minds filled with devotional thoughts, they also visited Kanchi to worship Varadarajaswami and Goddess Kamakshi; after visiting all these holy places, they finally reached the Seven Hills of Lord Venkateswara.
They took a holy dip in the Swarnamukhi River and performed the rituals by mentioning their “Gothra nama” and worshipping Shri Gnana Prasunamba and Sri Kalahasteeswara.
Swarnamukhi River at Srikalahasti
Padma Sarovaram
Then, a holy man came near the resting Sankhana and told him the following words:
“Oh, mighty king! There is a Holy Pond called “Padma Sarovaram”, as it is known for its beautiful Lotus Flowers. This was created on the prayer of Venkateswara. Goddess Mahalakshmi was born in these Thousand-Petalled Lotuses. As those Lotuses are Golden Flowers, they shine in their Resplendent Brightness.
Hence, the Goddess is known as Padmavathi and Alamelu Mangamma to all Her devotees. As this Goddess is known for Her Kindness and Benevolence, She is worshipped by all the Gods like Brahma, Sun, Moon and all the Navagrahas. You must go and take a holy bath in that Holy Pond with a strong will for the restoration of your kingdom. All your past sins will be atoned and your life once again will be happy with a sense of fulfilment”.
After listening to the holy words of this wise man, they were overwhelmed with inexplicable joy and decided to take a bath. After seeing that Holy Pond, near Sri Kalahasteeswara temple on the northern banks of the Swarnamukhi River, they were delighted. It was filled with Lotus Flowers and joyfully humming bees. They enjoyed the pleasure of taking a bath in the holy water, which was also a wonderful spectacle of many delightful creatures swimming in those waters.
Sri Gnana Prasunamba and Sri Kalahasteeswara
That pond was surrounded by sweet, fragrant flowers and sweet-smelling fruits. It was a wonderful spectacle of delightfully chirping birds. It was a soul-filling experience, with its quiet, fragrant breeze filling their senses. It was here that Lord Venkateswara spent His days in worshiping and chanting the name of Mahalakshmi for Twelve Years.
It was Shukla Panchami in Karthika masa on Friday on Abhijit lagna and Uttarashada star that Sri Mahalakshmi made Her Divine Presence as Alamelu Manga in this Holy Pond. Our past sins will be atoned if we take a bath in this Holy Pond!
Thus, the royal consorts by enjoying nature’s beauty, which gave delight to their eyes and divine bliss, took a holy dip in that pond by invoking the blessings of Almighty God! By pronouncing their Gothra and nama, they prayed to Sri Mahalakshmi with reverence and devotion:
“Oh, Mother! You are quintessentially present in all the creatures, Glittering in all brilliance! You are present adorned in Golden Attire and decorated Yourself with invaluable ornaments!
You are the very Embodiment of Pure Joy and Eternal Beauty! You endow Yourself with the Holiest of mantras called OMKARA and seat Yourself ever so majestically on the left side of Sri Mahavishnu, by having water in the Golden Kalasa and Golden Lotuses in Your Hands, You Bless us, the troubled humanity with Karuna! We pray at Your Holiest Feet! Give us Your darshan to make our lives worthy!
And You drive away all our sorrows and poverty and sins! Oh Mother! Let us live at Your lotus feet! You shower Your Blessings on all of us the besieged and turn people!
And – You are the Destroyer of all our sorrows and fears! We salute to You! You are present in Swami’s Bosom to bless us with wealth and plenitude! We prostrate before You! Give us Your darshan to make our lives holy!
And Drive away the murky darkness in us! Sanction us all wealth and prosperity by removing our poverty!
In this manner, King Sankhana with his royal consort prayed to Sri Mahalakshmi on the banks of this Pond with bhakti and in his trance-like prayer to Her Holiness, Alamelu Manga symbolizing Universal Mother appeared in his vision. Then, he sang in great ecstasy the following lines:
“I praise You, Goddess, who is shining with all the noble qualities and who is praised by no less a person than the Lord, (who is born in the Lotus) and living in Splendid Brightness in the Left-Hand position of Lord Vishnu (who lives in Vaikuntha). All be well with You, the Giver of all wealth.
He praised Her also in these words: “You are a Goddess praised and eulogized by all the Gods. You are called Bhadra and You are the daughter of Goddess Lakshmidevi. You are called Nithya. You are the Eternal Source of Wisdom and Divine Knowledge. You are also called Sathyadevi, as You are present in all these still and motionless and yet moving objects”.
As the mighty king lost himself in a trance, failing to describe Her greatness and majesty any further in words, he lost himself in silence. In that trance like condition, he had a vision. In that vision, he had seen a marvellous spectacle.
In that spectacle, he heard the words of a holy man like this:
“Oh! Mighty and noble king! When you have taken the bath in all the holy rivers and ponds, all your past sins have been atoned! Now you are shining with resplendent brightness, blessed with divine sanction. As you are blessed with the vision of Her Holiness, you are shining like pure, molten gold, without impurities. If you come along with Me, I will take both of you, the royal consorts, to a place of Great Bliss and Divine Presence”.
Sri Venkatachalam
As they followed with obedience and devotion, the footsteps of the holy man, they saw a spectacle of rare beauty. When they asked him, where was he taking them, he replied that they were going to the Divine Shrine called Sri Venkatachalam.
It is known by many names:
In Krithayuga, it was called Vrishachalam;
in Thretayuga, it was called Anjanachalam;
in Dwaparayuga, it was known as Seshachalam.
It was such a Pious and Holy Mountain that it would remove all our sins. It would drive all our sins like the dark clouds being driven away by the sun’s sharp rays. Even the mere touch of these Venkatachala Mountains would remove all our sins. It would also give us wealth, children and health and intelligence and great strength of mind.
Like this, it would endow us with whatever we pray for! It is a delightful place with nature in full blossom! Flowers bloom; lakes, ponds, humming bees, flower gardens, green trees and fragrant air – all these nature’s bounties make this Venkatachalam a marvellous spectacle of Heaven on earth!
With the presence of rare birds, wild animals and great Rishis in their meditation in the caves and Yogis-they are all eternal symbols of God’s presence on earth. Also, the brilliantly shining precious stones and diamonds make a feast for our eyes.
Meru Mountain
Once upon a time, the most glittering mountain called, Meru, went on a penance to please Lord Brahma. It appealed to Lord Brahma to make it eternal, shining with precious diamonds and perennially rich in all nature’s bounties. From then onwards, it has become the Shining Abode of all that is Great and Bountiful.
It is also known as Sri Venkatachala Kshetra, where all the Rishis and Gods are in penance. Also, all good people and noble souls are in penance. They worship all the natural forces for the welfare of humanity and the universe at large.
It was in this place that noble Rishis like Suka, Lord Brahma and others were chanting the Vedas as all the Hills reverberated with the Vedic incantations. Some great men and yogis are dancing in joy along with the peacocks and serving at the Feet of Lord Venkateswara.
The cuckoos and parrots are chanting the Puranas. This beautiful mountain is shining even more brightly with the spiritual power of these Rishis. There is also a Holy Pond called Swami Pushkarini. It was brought to this world by the Garutmanta as ordained by Lord Mahavishnu.
Pushkarinis – Pushkaradri
There are many other ponds, waterfalls and sacred places where people take their baths. They are known as pushkarinis. As there are many such pushkarinis, that Hill is known as Pushkaradri.
The small rivulets and tanks, filled with Holy water, to their brim, not only purify the past sins of the devotees but also cure their illnesses. Hence, this place is known for its beneficial qualities of further enriching all the joys and happiness of the devotees.
Lord Vishnu made this mountain His Abode along with His Consorts, Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhummhalakshmi for the sake of His devotees, on the prayer of other Gods and Sage Narada, and all the Rishis. Since then, He has been present on this Holy Hill along with His Consort Sri Mahalakshmi and become the only God in the Kaliyuga.
He is the God sanctioning all our desires and fulfilling our hopes. Also, Sri Mahalakshmi, with Her Kind Heart and Benevolent Self prays to Lord Srinivas to fulfil all our prayers. She also enthuses the Lord to grant our desires. She is seated on a Lotus in a rectangle and is known as VYUHALAKSHMI, as She is eternally present in Her Lord’s bosom.
As She appears hidden in the bosom, we can also see Her in the form of SWATANTRA VEERALAKSHMI on the banks of the Swarnamukhi river in Sukapura. She is present as ARCHAMURTHI, the deity worshipped in temples.
“Oh mighty king, Sankhana! As you have taken a Holy bath in the Lotus Pond and worshipped Alamelu Mangamma as Veera Lakshmi all your past sins have been atoned. One can worship Swatantra Veera Lakshmi as all the devotees can worship Her at all times. But, they cannot worship “VYUHA LAKSHMI” as She is present in Lord Venkateswara’s Bosom.
She listens to the devotees’ prayers first and then prays to Lord Venkateswara for their fulfilment. She is present as “VYUHA LAKSHMI” in Swami’s Bosom. Her mind is ennobling. Her Kindness is Eternal. She always gives Her grace to all Her devotees at all times.
She is called VYUHALAKSHMI. She is our Kamadhenu and Chintamani granting all our prayers. Her ‘Two Hands’ are the Kalpavriksha. Her DIVYASWARUPA – i.e., Her Divine Presence is a symbol of Infinite Wealth.
We are overwhelmed by Her intimate Kindness, as Her Divine Beauty inspires many possessed artists! Even our mere looking at Her Most Gracious Face removes all our sins; all the enlightened souls worship VYUHALAKSHMI with their devout prayers, poems and songs.
She is Ubiquitous in Her Presence, with Her Wisdom of the Holiest of Gods, Gayathri; She is the Creator of all that is Changing and Eternal. She is the source of Gnana and is worshipped by the noblemen. She inspires good thoughts and deeds in us! She Saves us from our unintended evil deeds.
If we worship Her and Swami by Gayathri Mantra, we will be blessed with the fulfilment of all our desires by the Gracious Kindness of Sri Lakshmi Venkata Ramana Swami.
Sri Vatsa vakshasam srisam srilolam srikaragraham Sri mantam srinidhim sri dhyam srinivasam bhajenisam
Swami wears Sri Mahalakshmi as Srivatsam in His bosom. Swami, Lakshmipathi looks after Her with Infinite Love- He, the source of All Forms of Knowledge and Wealth! They spend all Their time redeeming the suffering humanity. They are worshipped by the devotees in the Holiest of Shrines called Venkatachalam.
In these Holy Mountains, there are Seven Hills called – Seshadri, Garudadri, Venkatadri, Narayanadri, Vrishabhadri, Vrishadri and Anjanadri. Hence, this Shrine is called SAPTHAGIRI. Lord Srinivasa invokes His Divine Blessings, as the Protector of all His devotees.
Swami Pushkarini at Tirumala
While saying these words, the nobleman accompanied the king and his royal consort to Swami Pushkarini and explained the significance of the Holy Pond in these words:
“Performing the holy ritual on Ekadasi, doing service to noble souls and taking holy baths in this Swami Pushkarini – are truly fortunate events in anybody’s lives. You are blessed with all these three events. Today is Ekadasi. You can accept Me as your path-finder. After performing your Sankalpa, you can take a holy dip in this Pushkarini. Taking Me as your instructor and path-finder, now you can visit the temple of Lord Srinivasa”.
After they took a bath in Pushkarini, He took them to the temple of Advaraha swami and after asking them to next visit the temple of the Lord, who was possessing Alamelu Manga as VYUHALAKSHMI in His bosom, the nobleman disappeared. Spellbound with these miracles and wonders of Nature, the royal consorts, attended the temples of Lord Srinivasa.
They were wondering whether it was a dream or mere illusion, as they continued their journey to Sapthagiri Hills. After paying respects to the Lotus Pond, they climbed the Mountains with deep devotion and were enamoured by Nature’s beauties. They spent all their time praying to Lord Srinivasa. King Sankhana’s mind and thoughts were filled with devotion to Him. He was chanting the names of ‘Srinivasa’ and ‘Govinda’.
With deep love, he uttered these words; “Oh God! Give me Your darshan! I have no hunger or thirst, as I am praying to You. All my thoughts and feelings and mind are filled only with You. Oh! Goddess, Alamelu Mangamma! On our behalf ask Your Lord to show His Benediction and Infinite Kindness to us!”
Praying like this, they spent six months in great joy and with a sense of fulfilment. One day he was praying like this with folded hands;
Sri Venkatesam ! Lakshmisam ! anishtaghna mabheeshtadam Chaturmakhera tanayam srinivasambhajenisam
“Oh Lord Venkateswara! You are the Lord of All Mountains! You are our Benefactor! You are the Source of all that is Beautiful and Eternal. We always pray to you!” As they were praying in this manner, an appearance was shining in a glittering manner.
It came out of the Holy Pushkarini. It was like a Resplendent White Mighty Cloud. It was marvellous to see such a spectacle! It was also bedecked with many rare and precious stones. It was the Abode of Lord Srimannarayana.
In it, they saw Srimannarayana along with Bhu-Neeladevi in Their Splendid Appearance. They were decorated with many jewels of scintillating beauty, and fragrant flowers. As they made Their Appearance, all the Gods showered flowers, chanting their Names. The royal consorts saw the divine spectacle as they were fortunate.
Lord Srinivasa blessed the royal couple with the following words;
“Oh, mighty king! I have appeared before you to tell you that all your past sins have been atoned. You have visited Me and Sri Mahalakshmi who is in My Bosom. Now you are pure. You are shining like molten gold. You will get your kingdom back soon. You will enjoy all your past comforts, pomp and glory”.
After that, Sankhana regained his kingdom by defeating all his enemies and attained Moksha after leading a happy life. He achieved Kaivalya (Supreme end). By reading this story, we come to know that, by making a trip to Tirumala to seek the Blessings of Lord Srinivasa, all our sins and sorrows would disappear. This should enthuse all the devotees to pray to Him for His Blessings.
Adivarahakshetramu
Earlier, Tiruchanur was known as Adivarahakshetramu. Now we should know about this Adivarahakshetramu. It was created as Adivarahakshetramu, long before it came to be known as Sri Venkatachala Kshetram. It was called Adivarahakshetram as Sri Mahavishnu Appeared as a White Pig in One of His “Avataras”.
Since Bhudevi sat on His left thigh it came to be known as Bhuvaraha Kshetramu. There are Two Goddesses beside Him in Vaikuntham. They are, Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhu Mahalakshmi. The two Goddesses, namely Sri Mahalakshmi and Bhu Mahalakshmi were responsible for the incarnation of Padmavathi.
Vedavati in Kaliyuga appeared with the spirit of Bhudevi of Tretayuga and with the spirit of Sri Mahalakshmi She appeared as Padmavathi in the Golden Lotus Pond.
In any case, in one word, whether it is Sri Varahakshetra or Venkatachala or Sri Padmasarovara-all these are the incarnations of Bhu Mahalakshmi and Sri Mahalakshmi. These are not fortuitous events: without the determination of Bhu Mahalakshmi, the incarnation of Varaha Swami – would not have been there; had Sri Mahalakshmi left Vaikuntha, there would not have been the incarnation of Sri Venkateswara nor the existence of Holy Venkatachala Kshetra.
Similarly, neither Kolhapur nor Tiruchanur would have existed. Thus, the Two Wives of Srimannarayana were the Divinely Given incarnations. Whether we call Them Harikoluvu or Venkatachala or Sirikoluvu (which became Tiruchanur) – These Shrines are Blessed Shrines for human liberation (moksha).
Sri Lakshmi Venkataramana Govinda ! Govinda !! Govinda !!!
Varalakshmi Vratam at Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple
Varalakshmi Vratam festival with grand festivity and faith is celebrated in the Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple also as a special annual event. The rituals of this festival are different in many aspects from the other normal rituals in the temple.
The Process of Varalakshmi Vratam
On this day of Varalakshmi Vratam, the Goddess Lakshmi is grandly worshipped in eight of Her various forms.
Those eight forms are
Bhagya Lakshmi,
Vidya Lakshmi,
Bhu Lakshmi,
Prti Lakshmi,
Kirti Lakshmi,
Santi Lakshmi,
Tushti Lakshmi and
Pushti Lakshmi.
This Vratam is performed in the large hall of Asthana Mandapam of Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple. As this is offered as an Arjita Seva all the couples of devotees who participate in this Vratam sit in rows for collective performance of this with all necessary worshipping materials and wait for the timely instructions of the priests.
In the process of worshipping according to the scriptural procedure, the Sankalpa is recited with all details such as the regional location on the globe and the holy tithi details along with the names of Year, Half-year, Month, Fortnight, Day, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana and other aspects.
The wish for performing the puja is for the welfare of the entire human beings. At the time of Sankalpa along with the welfare and well-being of the human race, all the devotees submit their wishes to the Goddess to grace them all personally for their all kinds of riches and prosperity.
16 Upacharaas (Services) to the Goddess
Then puja with sixteen services including
Dhyana (Contemplating upon the Goddess),
Avahana (Inviting to the place of Puja),
Ratna Simhasana (Seating Her on the Jewel-decked throne),
Arghya (Offering Sandal paste and flowers mixed with pure water),
Padyam (Water for washing the feet),
Acahamaniyam (Water for swallowing three sips of water as a process of drinking),
Panchamrita Snaanam and Suddhodhaka Snaanam (Bathing with five nectarous liquids – Milk, Ghee, Honey, Curd and Coconut/sugar mixed water and also with pure water),
Vastra Yugma (Offering a pair of clothes),
Abharanas (Offering Ornaments to the Goddess),
Gandha (Offering Sandal Paste),
Akshatas (Offering Yellow rice),
Pushpapuja (Worshiping with flowers and Names),
Dhupa (Offering fragrant sticks), Dipa (lamp), Naivedya (Offering different kinds of food to the Goddess),
Tambulam (Offering Betel leaves, Nut powder etc),
Karpura Nirajanam (Camphor Flame Arati),
Mantra Pushpam (Offering Handful of flowers) and
Pradakshina Namaskarams (Final Pranams at the end of the Puja).
Vrata Katha (The Story of the Vrata)
At the end of the Vrata, the story related to this Vrata should be heard from the priests. In the temple of Padmavati Ammavaru also they narrate the story in the following manner. This story was taken from Skanda Purana.
This story was narrated by Siva to Parvati. According to his narration in the good olden days in the city of Kundina, there was a Brahmin woman named Charumati. She was very much devoted to serving her parents-in-law and her husband very sincerely. She was a very learned woman. She speaks very pleasantly with all. Her heart was pure and serene. One day she had a dream. The essence of the dream is that Goddess Vara Lakshmi appeared in her dream and advised her to perform Varalakshmi Vratam. She also narrated the procedure of the Vratam.
Charumati offered many prayers to Goddess Varalakshmi in the dream and the next morning she shared the dream experience with all of her relatives. They were all very much pleased to know all the details. This vrata should be performed on the penultimate Friday to the Fullmoon day (Purnima) of the Sravana Month.
All of them along with Charumathi had much awaited the day and performed the Vratam as per the procedure narrated by Goddess Vara Lakshmi. As a result, all of them became richer and richer. Their wealth grew endless. The grace of the Goddess was fully showered over them.
Slowly this Vratam became popular in the entire city. All the residents of that city started performing the Vratam and the city became the richest. Slowly this spread to the other cities. Everyone was doing this vrata and turning rich. Everyone was praising the great and noble heart of Charumati. Thus she has been praised by all ever since till date.
This story can be seen even in the Bhavishyottara Purana.
The Mother Goddess on the Golden Chariot
In the evening of the Varalakshmi Vratam day, the well-adorned idol of the Mother Goddess Sri Padmavati Devi at Tiruchanur is seated on the Golden Chariot. While the chariot goes around the holy streets of Tiruchanur around the temple all the devotees come out and pay respects to the idol on the Chariot.
While the Vedic scholars chant the divine Vedic Hymns, the artists of different traditional and auspicious musical instruments play their respective instruments singing in praise of the glory of the Goddess. The chariot is followed by groups of devotees performing different kinds of Bhajans and also teams of different cultural arts presenting traditional folk dances and songs in praise of Goddess Lakshmi and Vishnu.
Thus at Tiruchanur, the whole day of Varalakshmi Vratam is grandly celebrated with utmost devotion, enthusiasm and zeal and with great faith. In this festival, all the priests, officials, devotees and even all the residents of Tiruchanur participate at different intervals having their share in successfully celebrating the Festival.
Let Goddess Varalakshmi shower her divine blessings on all the devotees for their prosperity and perfection.
One should be aware of Ashtalakshmis or the manifestations of Goddess Sri Lakshmi.
Veda Lakshmi in TretaYuga
A sage named Brahmarishi Kushadhvaja was fixated on the Vedas. He was apathetic towards the institution of marriage but enthusiastic about begetting Goddess Lakshmi. One day while pursuing the Vedas, the celestial Narthaki (dancer) Urvashi ambled past Brahmarishi Kushadhvaja.
Bewitched by her beauty, he gets distracted for a second. As a consequence, Lakshmi descends to the Earth. She was born whilst pursuing the Vedas, hence the epithet Vedavathi.
During Her formative years, being Lakshmi’s apparent incarnation, She was engrossed in Lord Vishnu’s thoughts. She performs austere penance in the Himalayas. Whilst exploring the Himalayas on Pushpaka Vimana, Ravana saw Vedavathi. She self-immolates in indignation and reaches ‘Agni Loka.’
At the time of the capture of Sita, Agni substitutes Sita with Vedavathi considering the intolerable imminent adversities. At the event of ‘agni pravesha’, Lord Agni replaces the true Sita who acknowledges and appreciates Vedavathi’s selflessness granting Her a wish as a token of gratitude.
Perpetually ambitious about Lord Narayana, Vedavathi gladly expresses Her desire to be His eternal divine consort.
Being monogamous in Treta Yuga, Lord Narayana comforts Vedavathi permitting Her desire to come to fruition in Kaliyuga instead. This narrative is documented in Kurma Purana, one of the indisputable compilations of Sri Veda Vyasa.
The Valmiki Ramayana is not exhaustive, but a comprehensive account of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. However, the remainder of the Puranas encompasses intricate details. In comforting Vedavathi, Lord Vishnu conceives an opportunity to descend to the earth in Kaliyuga.
Ever since the spirit of Vedavathi endured as Veda Lakshmi anxiously awaited the Lord’s descent. The Lord manifests as Matsya Narayana or Veda Narayana at Vedanarayana Swamy temple of Nagalapuramnear Tirupati.
Srivatsa Lakshmi (Vaikunta)
Srivatsa Lakshmi resides as a mole on the chest of Lord Vishnu. Everyone is well-acquainted with the episode of Bhrigu Maharshi paying a visit to Vaikunta to see Lord Vishnu and Sri Lakshmi who were absorbed in a sobering conversation at the time of his arrival.
Since it is the onset of Kaliyuga, Lord Vishnu advises Sri Lakshmi that it is high time to manifest on the earth. Anomalously, He suggests Lakshmi descend ahead for Him to follow His lead. Lakshmi apprehensively reminds the Lord that she customarily follows His lead in every avatar instead; subsequently, gets married and partakes in annihilating the evil.
Lord Vishnu remarks the upcoming ‘avatar’ is distinctive and does not ensure a return to Vaikunta upon conclusion, unlike the earlier ones. With negative personality traits being an inherent attribute in everyone, it is futile to seek change. It would be pragmatic to change their thought patterns and safeguard the staunch devotees from evil instead.
Persistent about goddess Lakshmi’s descent, the Lord takes the honorific ‘Srinivasa’ as an explicit homage to Sri Lakshmi. With Lakshmi being perturbed over the forthcoming separation, the Lord suggests Her to take solace from the fact that He shall descend as a mere mortal and invigorate His supremacy once they reunite.
Bhrigu Maharshi arrives at that instant and eventually hurts Lord Vishnu. Bhrigu was comforted by the Lord, which enrages Sri Lakshmi. She determines to leave Vaikunta and descends to the earth in resentment. Bhrigu Maharshi’s episode is merely a divine interlude.
As Bhrigu was impertinent towards Lord Vishnu out of ‘tamo guna,’ Sri Lakshmi vows She shall return to Vaikunta in Her ‘shuddha sattva’ form alone.
Mahalakshmi (Kolhapur)
Goddess Sri Lakshmi went to Kapilaranya i.e. Kapila Maharshi’s hermitage. One can perceive Her presence in Kolhapur with the spiritual powers of the ancient sages. As Sri Lakshmi performed acute penance, Agastya and the other sages sought her refuge.
Sati Devi’s eyes fell on Padmavatipuram as she self-immolated during Daksha Yagna. Once, Lord Brahma created three ‘manasaputras.’ They were Gaya, Lavana, and Kolha who regrettably turned unrighteous. Gayasura and Lavanasura were eliminated by Lord Vishnu, but Kolhasura wreaked havoc in Padmavatipuram under his reign.
Kolhasura, along with his son Karavira, dissuaded Agastya and the other sages from their divine austerities. As Agastya and the sages sought Sri Lakshmi to extinguish them. Since her imminent return, Sri Lakshmi slaughtered them. As a dying wish, Kolhasura and Karavira entreat Sri Lakshmi to name their province after them.
Hence the eponymous Kolhapur! Sri Lakshmi obliges and manifests as Maha Lakshmi to safeguard Her devotees.
The third manifestation since Veda Lakshmi and Srivatsa Lakshmi. The divine architect Vishwakarma replicated Manidweepa (the abode of Shakthi) for Kolhapur Maha Lakshmi. Vaikunta being desolate since Lakshmi’s departure, the Lord expeditiously descended to the Earth.
Swatantra Veera Lakshmi in Tiruchanur
Meanwhile, in Treta Yuga Veda Lakshmi’s spirit prevailing on the earth was discovered as Padmavathi Devi by Akasha Raja. She was discovered in a lotus while ploughing the earth. Hence the epithet Padmavathi. The union of Lord Venkateswara with Goddess Padmavathi is a widely-known narrative.
Since Maha Lakshmi manifested in Kolhapur, Lord Venkateswara had to borrow money from Lord Kubera as goddess Padmavathi is goddess Lakshmi’s partial incarnation. Her absolute incarnation manifested in Kolhapur, The Lord felt inadequate without His eternal divine companion.
Honouring Padmavathi, the Lord suggests Her remain at Vakula Mata’s hermitage while He goes in quest of Sri Lakshmi. As the Lord reached Kolhapur, all deities were discernable except Sri Lakshmi despite Her manifestation.
The distraught Lord bathes in Padma Kund, Panchaganga and Rudraprayaga which is an undiscovered sanctified confluence, to pacify His eternal consort. Ensuing ten years of vain penance, ‘akashvani’ apprises the Lord that goddess Lakshmi manifested in Her unsympathetic (rajo guna) form to eradicate the nefarious.
Hence, the mace, ‘paana paatra’ and lion. Goddess Lakshmi shall be apparent merely in Her purest form. ‘You visit Shuka Maharshi’s hermitage, excavate a pond, and plant lotuses from Deva Loka and ensure those lotuses do not wilt for about twelve years whilst meditating on Sri Lakshmi.
Subsequently, She shall emerge on Karthika Panchami in Her ‘shuddha Sattvika’ form and reach You’. The Lord acts per the divine voice and visits Suka Maharshi’s hermitage. Every Durgashtami, temple honours are sent to Kolhapur from Tirumala, in keeping with the long-established tradition since her manifestation. Eventually, the Lord visits Sri Shukapuram i.e. the present Tiruchanur.
Distressed by the Lord’s abandonment, Sri Padmavathi was prescribed severe penance on Venkatachalam by Vakula Matha to expedite His return. With the Lord at Shuka Maharshi’s hermitage, Sri Padmavathi at Venkatachalam, and goddess Maha Lakshmi in Kolhapur, when do they unite? When the Lord arrives at Suka Maharshi’s hermitage, He excavates a divine pond. Vayu Deva was entrusted to equip the excavated pond with the majestic golden lotuses from Deva Loka.
To prevent the lotuses from wilting, the Lord directs the Sun to remain in Kolhapur for twelve years. Reflecting upon Sri Lakshmi’s ‘shuddha sattva’ form, the Lord recites the Maha Lakshmi Moola Mantra meditating on the heart of lotus for twelve years. Reaching Padmasarovaram, the Gods and sages intensified their prayers pleading with Sri Lakshmi to return to the Lord.
With the advent of Panchami of Karthika month in the twelfth year, while the Lord was immersed in deep penance. Brighu Maharshi earnestly apologised for his impertinence urging Maha Lakshmi to be His descendant offering to perform fervent penance.
The golden lotus at the core of Padmasarovaram unfurled revealing a pacified Maha Lakshmi on Karthika Shukla Panchami in Her serene form. Be-jewelled, illuminating, and adorned in white while the majestic elephants showered Her with the sacred Akasha Ganga.
Maha Lakshmi manifested as a sixteen-year-old maiden. Subsequently, the Lord opens His eyes as the deities showered flowers from Heaven. The Lord embraced Goddess Maha Lakshmi and adorned Her with His garland.
With Maha Lakshmi’s absence from Vaikunta, the gods and sages were ecstatic over the Lord’s demonstrativeness. Consequently, they began a soul-stirring recital of Sri Lakshmi Hrudaya Stotra earnestly pleading with Sri Lakshmi to never abandon Vaikunta.
Since Maha Lakshmi’s illustrious emergence in Padmasarovaram, Shuka Maharshi and the gods plead with Her to manifest. She graciously obliges and manifests as Sarva Swatantra Veera Lakshmi in Tiruchanur. At Tiruchanur, all rituals are wholly devoted to the goddess regardless of the Lord’s idol being consecrated later.
So the deity at Tiruchanuris ‘shuddha sattva’ Lakshmi flanked by lotuses She emerged as seated in a golden lotus, hence the epithet Alarmelu Manga. Padmam (lotus) being Sri Lakshmi’s abode, She is hence mellifluously referred to as Padmavathi Devi.
Tiruchanur’s Padmavathi Devi is not Akasha Raja’s daughter, but Sri Lakshmi’s partial incarnation Padmavathi Devi instead. The goddess emerged in a golden lotus in Padmasarovaram, the modern day pillared hall in the temple tank, excavated by the Lord Himself.
One dip in the holy ‘pushkarini’ will dissipate one’s worries. Every Karthika Panchami, to commemorate the occasion of Her emergence, Lord Venkateswara accords temple honours to His divine consort.
Vyuha Lakshmi
Despite being Sarva Swatantra Veera Lakshmi, to remain inseparable, She also manifests as Vyuha Lakshmiin ‘shuddha sattva’ form on the Lord’s chest. Vyuha Lakshmi apprises the Lord that she shall eternally remain on His chest to be able to convey the devotees’ pleas ahead.
The consecration and worship of Vyuha-Lakshmi are meant to secure unbounded and eternal prosperity. In the daily worship of the Hill-God, after the Venkatesa Sahasranama Archana in the morning, this Vyuha-Lakshmi on the Lord’s chest is also worshipped reciting sixteen names of Sri Lakshmi (shodasha-nama) with the offering of Tulasi leaves after each name and also Goddess Padmavathi on the left chest is worshipped at the same time.
This image is specially worshipped during the main deity’s ceremonial bath on Fridays, as also during Makara- Sankranthi, when this Sri Lakshmi on the right chest of the Lord receives a bath with perfumed water.
Lord Venkateswara’s idol has a ‘Srivatsam’ mark on His right chest, which is a permanent part of the idol. It can be seen embossed, but only on Thursdays when the jewels are removed completely, except the Melchat Vastram and on Fridays, during Abhishekam and Nijapada Darshanam. The ‘darshan’ of Vakshasthala Lakshmi can be seen if one comes very near to Kulasekhara Padi and even from there also, one can only assume Her shape.
Only ‘archakas’ can see the image of Vakshasthala Lakshmi on the Lord’s divine chest. This Lakshmi is called Dvi-bhuja-Vyuha-Lakshmi in Vaikhanasa Samhithas. The presence of Lakshmi on the body of the Lord is responsible for the name Sri-Nivasa (the abode of Lakshmi) for Him. This image of Lakshmi is in the Agamas prescribed to be twoarmed and seated in the lotus posture. This form is called Vyuha-Lakshmi.
Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi
Along with Vyuha Lakshmi, the Lord departs for Tirumala to reunite with Goddess Padmavathi who wept uncontrollably upon reconciliation. Lord Venkateswara consoles Her and apprises of Her illustrious previous births.
To quell the separation from the Lord further, She manifests as Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi, unifying with Vyuha Lakshmi, the fifth and sixth manifestations of Ashta Lakshmi. Lord Venkateswara equally embraces His divine consorts Lakshmi and Padmavathi and bears them on His chest. The revered embodiment of Vyuha Lakshmi and Bhootha Karunya Lakshmi gets Srivari Abhishekam duly observed every Friday.
Except Tirumala, the Lord is customarily accompanied by His divine consorts in any Vaishnava temple. One can visit Tiruchanur to offer prayers to Goddess Maha Lakshmi. The Lord married Padmavathi Devi in Narayanavanam. In the southwest corner of the temple Goddess Padmavathi manifests as a radiant new bride and sets out only during the festivities and processions.
This is the contemporaneous exhaustive saga of the sublime Alarmelu Manga, Padmavathi, and Sri Lakshmi.
Article posted on Saptagiri Magazine by – Dr. Venkata Harshavardhan R.D.
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Kartika Brahmotsavams is a spectacular festival of Tiruchanur and Tirupati. Just as Tirumala Brahmotsavam ends with CHAKRA SNANAM, even Tiruchanur Kartika Brahmotsavam ends with a Chakrasnanam on the auspicious Panchami Teertha day known as ‘Panchami Theertham’.
Saare – From Tirumala to Tiruchanur
On this special day, “Saare” (an auspicious and devotional offering) comes from Tirumala Venkateswara Swamivaru to the Goddess Padmavathi. The movement of the divine ‘‘Saare’’ starts (Praramba Yaathra) at BRAHMA MUHURTHAM time in Tirumala and travels through ‘Mada Veedhis’.
Later on, this ‘‘Saare’’ travels through the steps and roads of Tirumala to Tirupati and again from Tirupati to Tiruchanur. This Saare’s Mugimpu Yatra (conclusion part) happens with its travel through four Tiruchanur Mada streets before it is offered to Goddess Padmavathi Ammavaru.
Indian Tradition – SAARE
Normally in India, after performing a wedding or marriage, the bride’s family sends a “SAARE’’ to the in-laws along with their daughter who enters her in-law’s place. This ‘Saare’ mainly consists of food items and gifts to family members and relatives of the bridegroom.
This ‘Saare’ has to do with the gifts meant for the son-in-law and the favourite things used by the daughter from her birth till the wedding day.
Ramayana in Thretha yuga also mentions ‘Mandhara’, the servant of Kaikeyi, who accompanies her to her in-law’s palace. This is one of the famous instances of this tradition.
Coming to the age-old ‘Tirumala Swamivari Saare’, many old aged priests and devotees opined that, this Saare consists of not only Jewellery, Silk Sarees, Turmeric, Saffron (Kumkuma), Traditional Chandan (Sandalwood), Flowers, Betelnuts, Betel leaves, Fruits, Sweets, Elaichi, Aroma oils or Scents, Mirror, Vinjamaras, Handheld fans, Koppu and Jada Kuchulu (hangings worn at the end of plaited hair) just to name a few.
Srivari Saare
These items in the ‘Srivari Saare’ represent the traditions to be followed by Indian girls, and women for the welfare of the family, the safety of society, and their personal “devotional and traditional safety” as well.
The following are some of the important Sanathana Dharma procedures to be followed of Hindu girls, women, and married men.
Wearing Turmeric
The application of turmeric to the face and body not only helps to give glory and glow but also protects the skin from bacteria, viruses, and fungal bodies because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic nature with its strong antioxidants inside.
Wearing Gold
Even a small amount of gold on the body activates some parts of the nervous system apart from the extension of prosperity which is evident from ancient medical scripts, the Puranas and Sastras.
Draping Sarees
The silk sarees with their strong ‘semi-conductor property’ connect the body with the “five elements” (Pancha Bhoothas) of mother nature and activate and energize the body. The current youth especially girls and women wearing ‘Jeans’ are said to face many problems related to health care.
It’s time for all of us to understand the importance of items in Saare and the message from Lord Venkateswara regarding the same.
Wearing Vermilion
The most important aspect to learn from Kumkuma (vermilion) used by Indians to keep it on the top of “Gnana Netra” (the place between two eyes) to protect, radiate, and energize the ‘third eye’ of the human being and attract the Gnana (Knowledge) and positive powers.
The colour red symbolizes the Goddess and Sun which predominantly appears in Kumkuma. The material in Kumkuma invites eight types of wealth, cosmic power and prosperity through the third eye or gnana netra of the person.
Tying the Hair
The Koppu (Hair Holding Flower like structure to keep the tips and ends of the hair or Jada Gantalu) is another important material-based message from the Saare or Lord Venkateswara to the women. All of us are familiar with the current wires or power cables. When you get in touch or contact the ends of the same when they are open, it is quite obvious that you will get an ‘electricity shock’.
Hope you remember the electrician closes the ends of these copper or metallic wires with plastic tape to stop the flow of electricity through the wires. Similarly, when girls and women with long and movable hair, that too when they are moving in public places, there is a possibility for their hair ends to get in touch with people with negative energy.
This will lead to the transfer of their positive power to others and take their negative energy in that place. Hence, the message from Koppu and Jada Gantalu from the Saare is “How to protect your positive powers and avoid getting negative energy?” by closing the tips or ends of your hair.
Balanced diet:
The importance of elaichi and fruits / dry fruits / prasadams etc. as a diet is well-known even in the modern world. Even in the past two years, every person has badly gone through the COVID pandemic in one way or another. At that time, a balanced diet like dry fruits etc plays a major role in our immune system.
Wearing flowers
Similarly, the role of flowers and aromatic materials in cleaning the airborne negative energies apart from igniting six out of ‘Eight Chakras’ of human bodies is evident from puranas, vedangas and sastras.
Conclusion
Finally, there is a message from Lord Venkateswara to the married man on what to inscribe and prescribe to his wife and daughters for the welfare and prosperity of the society and family. The same will spread the culture and legacy to the sons or boys of the family as “doing is believing”.
The objective of this post is not just to touch upon the material and ingredients of Tirumala Sri Vaari Saare to Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru during the Karthika Tiruchanur Brahmotsavams on Panchami Theertham Day, but also to express the significance of contents of the Saare to spread the prosperity and welfare to the Society, family and individual.
This article is about Laksha Kumkumarchana at Padmavathi Temple – Tiruchanur
Sri Padmavathi Devi temple – Tiruchanur
Goddess Padmavathi is the queen of Lord Srinivasa and enjoys a separate identity with equal status. The Goddess is inseparable and enjoys an equal position as she is a Purushakara or instrumental in protecting the devotees from the wrath of the Lord.
As the temple of Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru is as important as the Venkateswara Swami temple, pilgrims throng to this temple throughout the year and offer their prayers.
Laksha Kumkumarchana
According to the Hindu Sanatana Dharma, ‘Kumkum’ or vermilion is considered sacred, especially for married women, as it is applied by them over the forehead seeking the longevity of their husbands. It is also considered as the symbolic representation of Goddess Shakti, who is also revered as Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswathi, and Goddess Parvathi.
‘Laksha Kumkumarchana’ will be performed on a grand note at Sri Padmavathi Devi temple in Tiruchanur every year. This ritual is performed before the commencement of nine day ‘Karthika Brahmotsavams’.
So, before starting brahmotsavams or any mega religious event in a Hindu Goddess temple, the priests usually perform “Laksha Kumkumarchana” seeking the execution of the religious event smoothly and successfully by appeasing Mother Goddess with this unique ritual.
In the temple of Tiruchanoor, which happens to be the abode of Goddess Padmavathi Devi, the temple priests carried out “Laksha Kumkumarchana” from 7am till 12 noon to the processional deity of Goddess Padmavathi seated on a finely decked Asan in Mukha Mandapam located opposite Sri Krishna Swamy temple located within the main temple premises.
On this occasion, the processional deity of goddess Padmavathi will be seated on ‘Asan’ (platform) amidst the renditions of sacred chants and mellifluous hymns. The priests will chant the 1000 divine names of Goddesses during this fete.
The priests recited “Lakshmi Astottaram”, and “Lakshmi Sahasranamam” several hundred times and carried out “Laksha Kumkumarchana” with devotional fervour. Whenever they were reciting the multiple names of the Goddess, archana was done with vermilion to the processional deity. Hundreds of women devotees took part in this special ritual.
This ritual is considered as a prelude to Brahmotsavams appeasing Goddess for the successful conduct of mega Brahmotsavam.
Tiruchanur
Tiruchanur is a very holy town, situated about five km from Tirupati. It is called Alarmelmangapuram. ‘Alar’ means lotus flower, ‘Mel’ means above, ‘Manga’ means lovely woman (here Goddess Mahalakshmi), ‘Puram’ means place.
It denotes that the goddess Mahalakshmi resides permanently, blesses all who visit Her, and grants Her benediction. Her Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy has His sacred temple in Tirumala which is very near to Her. It is customary to visit Alarmelmangapuram first and then go to Tirumala to seek the blessings of the Lord.
The intercession or recommendation is indispensable to gain the favour of the Lord.
Sri Nammalvar addresses Sri Venkateswara “Agalakillen iraiyum endra Alarmelmangai urai marbhaa” which means that Sri Alarmelmanga (Padmavathi) permanently resides on the chest of the Lord, indicating Her importance. This is evidenced by the fact that Lord Venkateswara wears the Dollar of Sri Padmavathi devi on His chest even today.
Tiruchanur gets its name from the fact that the sage Sukha, who preached Srimad Bhagavatha Purana to the king Pareekshit, did penance here and got the blessings of the Goddess.
The Presiding Deity – Sri Padmavathi Thayar
Sri Alarmelmanga Thayar is the Presiding Deity of this temple. She is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Padmavathi Thayar is the Utsava Deity (taken in procession during festivals). Since She emerged from the lotus of the Padma Sarovar, the Holy Pushkarini, situated in Tiruchanur, She came to be known as Sri Padmavathi Thayar.
Sri Annamacharya, the most renowned Telugu poet had composed a number of ‘Kritis’ on the Goddess. Sri Vedanta Desika, the Vaishnava Acharya had even composed the Daya Sataka, containing 108 excellent slokas in Sanskrit on the Goddess and Sri Venkateswara, enlightening their boundless mercy on their devotees.
Rituals in the Temple
Sri Padmavathi Thayar resides in a very lovely temple in Tiruchanur, backed by the Padma Sarovar Pushkarini, the sacred tank. Apart from Thayar Sannidhi, there are two more sannidhis in the temple complex, wherein Lord Sri Krishnaswami and Lord Sri Sundararajaswami are enshrined to bless the devotees.
Sri Padmavathi Thayar has a separate Dwajasthamba (Flag Post) in front of Her Sannidhi and the sacred flag is hoisted during the Brahmotsavams. The Thayar enjoys Kalyana utsavam (like in Tirumala) daily around 10 a.m., and has Abhishekam on Fridays (as in Tirumala). Important Annual ‘utsavams’ are the Brahmotsavams, the Pavitrotsavam and the Teppotsavam.
The Brahmotsavam for Thayar is conducted in the month of Kartik (November). It begins with Dwajarohanam, followed by different Vahanotsavam. Goddess goes round the streets in various vahanams during the festival.
Panchami Theertham
The festival concludes with Panchami Teertham – Theerthavari – Chakra Snanam in the Padma Sarovar. On the Day of Panchami Teertham, Lord Sri Venkateswara sends offerings to the goddess. Thousands of devotees take bath in the sacred tank after the Chakra Snanam, to cleanse all their sins and be blessed with prosperity.
The puja vidhi during Brahmotsavams are in the form of Chatusthanarchana (ritual).
Every day during the annual fete, the Chatusthanarchana will be performed twice, both in the morning and in the evening at Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple.
In the morning this ceremony is observed in Yagashala between 5 am to 6 am and 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
The archakas invoke
Sri Paravasudeva (Vaikuntavasa) in holy water,
Sri Mahalakshmi in Sacred Kumbham (kalasam),
Agni in Homam, sacred rice (Akshata) in Chaktrabja Mandalam and
Yaga Bera in the form of Bimbam (deity).
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