Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam is also known as TTD. It is a management committee in tirumala which controls the pilgrims of tirumala-tirupati area. TTD is not only controlling the tirupati-temples but also participate in various social, religious, literary and educational activities within Andhra Pradesh and India
Background of TTD trust
In 1933 AD, the Madras government passed a special act, and empowered the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) committee to control all the activities of temple in tirumala-tirupati area, through a commissioner appointed by the madras government. Again in 1951, the act which was passed in 1933, replaced by enactment whereby the administration of TTD was entrusted to a Board of Trustees and an executive officer was appointed by the government.
The Executive Officer is the chief executive of TTD. He controls all activities of TTD. It includes arrangement and record of collection of income and payment of expenses, safety of pilgrims and other related work with tirupati temple. Now-a-days, TTD employs about 14000 people to maintain the 12 temples and their sub-shrine under its control along with the execution of its social activities.
Objectives of TTD
The main objective of the TTD is to provide convenient facilities to the devotees of lord Venkateswara. All facilities which we show in tirumala- tirupati, these facilities are mostly provided by TTD. Other objective of TTD is given below.
1) TTD works towards preserving the serenity and sanctity of the sacred Tirumala-Tirupati area.
2) It participated in various social, religious, literary and educational activities within Andhra Pradesh and India.
3) TTD also provides aid to authors and subsidised equipment to other temples.
4) Provision for water supply, sanitary arrangements, roads and communications, lighting and electricity were also included.
5) To provide training to priests.
Address/ contact office :Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams,TTD Administrative Building,
K.T. Road, Tirupati 517 501,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
Phone No. : +91-0877-2230166 (Tirupati)
+91-0877-2277214 (Tirumala)
+91-0877-2228358 (Fax)
Email Address: ttdt@md3.vsnl.net.in
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Tuesday, December 28, 2010
108 Names of Lord Venkateswara
We all known Lord Venkateswara is the main deity of Tirumal, Tirupati.
Lord Vekateswara is also known by other names.
1) Om Shri Ventakeshaya Namaha
2) OM Sreenivasaya Namaha
3) OM Laxmipataye Namaha
4) OM Anaamayaaya Namaha
5) OM Amruthamsaya Namaha
6) OM Jagadvandyaya Namaha
7) OM Govindaya Namaha
8) OM Shashvataya Namaha
9) OM Prabhave Namaha
10) OM Sheshadrinilayaya Namaha
11) OM Devaya Namaha
12) OM Keshavaya Namaha
13) OM Madhusudhanaya Namaha
14) OM Amrutaya Namaha
15) OM Madhavaya Namaha
16) OM Krishnaya Namaha
17) OM Sriharaye Namaha
18) OM Jnanapanjaraya Namaha
19) OM SreeVatsavakshase Namaha
20) OM Sarveshaya Namaha
21) OM Gopalaya Namaha
22) OM Purushotamaya Namaha
23) OM Gopeeshwaraya Namaha
24) OM Parasmyjyotishe Namaha
25) OM Vaikuntapataye Namaha
26) OM Avyayaya Namaha
27) OM Sudhaatanave Namaha
28) OM Yadavendraya Namaha
29) OM Nithyayavvanaroopavate Namaha
30) OM Chaturvedatmakaya Namaha
31) OM Vishnave Namaha
32) OM Achutyaya Namaha
33) OM Padminipriyaya Namaha
34) OM Dharapataye Namaha
35) OM Surapatye Namaha
36) OM Nirmalaya Namaha
37) OM Devapoojitaya Namaha
38) OM Chaturboojaya Namaha
39) OM Chakradaraya Namaha
40) OM Tridamne Namaha
41) OM Trigunashrayaya Namaha
42) OM Nirvikalpaya Namaha
43) OM Nishkalankaya Namaha
44) OM Niranthakaya Namaha
45) OM Niranjanaya Namaha
46) OM Nirabasaya Namaha
47) OM Nityatruptaya Namaha
48) OM Nirgunaya Namaha
49) OM Nirupadravaya Namaha
50) OM Gadhaadharaya Namaha
51) OM Shaarangapanaye Namaha
52) OM Nandakine Namaha
53) OM Shankhadarakaya Namaha
54) OM Anakemurtaye Namaha
55) OM Avyaktaya Namaha
56) OM Katihastaya Namaha
57) OM Varapradaya Namaha
58) OM Anekatmane Namaha
59) OM Deenabandhave Namaha
60) OM Aartalokabhayapradhaya
61) OM Akasharajavaradhaya Namaha
62) OM Yogihrutpadmamandhiraya Namaha
63) OM Dhamodharaya Namaha
64) OM Karunakaraya Namaha
65) OM Jagatpalayapapagnaya Namaha
66) OM Bhakthavatsalaya Namaha
67) OM Trivikramaya Namaha
68) OM Shishumaraya Namaha
69) OM Jatamakutashobhitaya Namaha
70) OM Shankamadyolasanmanjookinkinyadyakarakandakaya Namaha
71) OM Neelameghashyamatanave Namaha
72) OM Bilvapatrarchanapriyaya Namaha
73) OM Jagatvyapine Namaha
74) OM Jagatkartre Namaha
75) OM Jagatsakshine Namaha
76) OM Jagatpataya Namaha
77) OM Chintitarthapradaya Namaha
78) OM Jishnave Namaha
79) OM Daasharhaaya Namaha
80) OM Dhasharoopavate Namaha
81) OM Devakinandanaya Namaha
82) OM Shauraye Namaha
83) OM Hayagreevaya Namaha
84) OM Janardhanaya Namaha
85) OM Kanyashravanatharejyaya Namaha
86) OM Peetambharadharaya Namaha
87) OM Anagaya Namaha
88) OM Vanamaline Namaha
89) OM Padmanabhaya Namaha
90) OM Mrughayasaktamanasaya Namaha
91) OM Ashvaroodaya Namaha
92) OM Kadghadharine Namaha
93) OM Dhanarjanasamootsukaya Namaha
94) OM Ganasaralasanmadhyakasturitilakojjwalaya Namaha
95) OM Sachitandharoopaya Namaha
96) OM Jaganmangaladayakaya Namaha
97) OM Yajnaroopaya Namaha
98) OM Yajnabokthre Namaha
99) OM Chinmayaya Namaha
100) OM Parameshwaraya Namaha
101) OM Paramarthapradhaya Namaha
102) OM Shanthaya Namaha
103) OM Sreemathe Namaha
104) OM Dordhandhavikramaya Namaha
105) OM Paratparaya Namaha
106) OM Parasmaibrahmane Namaha
107) OM Sreevibhave Namaha
108) OM Jagadeeshwaraya Namaha
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Lord Vekateswara is also known by other names.
1) Om Shri Ventakeshaya Namaha
2) OM Sreenivasaya Namaha
3) OM Laxmipataye Namaha
4) OM Anaamayaaya Namaha
5) OM Amruthamsaya Namaha
6) OM Jagadvandyaya Namaha
7) OM Govindaya Namaha
8) OM Shashvataya Namaha
9) OM Prabhave Namaha
10) OM Sheshadrinilayaya Namaha
11) OM Devaya Namaha
12) OM Keshavaya Namaha
13) OM Madhusudhanaya Namaha
14) OM Amrutaya Namaha
15) OM Madhavaya Namaha
16) OM Krishnaya Namaha
17) OM Sriharaye Namaha
18) OM Jnanapanjaraya Namaha
19) OM SreeVatsavakshase Namaha
20) OM Sarveshaya Namaha
21) OM Gopalaya Namaha
22) OM Purushotamaya Namaha
23) OM Gopeeshwaraya Namaha
24) OM Parasmyjyotishe Namaha
25) OM Vaikuntapataye Namaha
26) OM Avyayaya Namaha
27) OM Sudhaatanave Namaha
28) OM Yadavendraya Namaha
29) OM Nithyayavvanaroopavate Namaha
30) OM Chaturvedatmakaya Namaha
31) OM Vishnave Namaha
32) OM Achutyaya Namaha
33) OM Padminipriyaya Namaha
34) OM Dharapataye Namaha
35) OM Surapatye Namaha
36) OM Nirmalaya Namaha
37) OM Devapoojitaya Namaha
38) OM Chaturboojaya Namaha
39) OM Chakradaraya Namaha
40) OM Tridamne Namaha
41) OM Trigunashrayaya Namaha
42) OM Nirvikalpaya Namaha
43) OM Nishkalankaya Namaha
44) OM Niranthakaya Namaha
45) OM Niranjanaya Namaha
46) OM Nirabasaya Namaha
47) OM Nityatruptaya Namaha
48) OM Nirgunaya Namaha
49) OM Nirupadravaya Namaha
50) OM Gadhaadharaya Namaha
51) OM Shaarangapanaye Namaha
52) OM Nandakine Namaha
53) OM Shankhadarakaya Namaha
54) OM Anakemurtaye Namaha
55) OM Avyaktaya Namaha
56) OM Katihastaya Namaha
57) OM Varapradaya Namaha
58) OM Anekatmane Namaha
59) OM Deenabandhave Namaha
60) OM Aartalokabhayapradhaya
61) OM Akasharajavaradhaya Namaha
62) OM Yogihrutpadmamandhiraya Namaha
63) OM Dhamodharaya Namaha
64) OM Karunakaraya Namaha
65) OM Jagatpalayapapagnaya Namaha
66) OM Bhakthavatsalaya Namaha
67) OM Trivikramaya Namaha
68) OM Shishumaraya Namaha
69) OM Jatamakutashobhitaya Namaha
70) OM Shankamadyolasanmanjookinkinyadyakarakandakaya Namaha
71) OM Neelameghashyamatanave Namaha
72) OM Bilvapatrarchanapriyaya Namaha
73) OM Jagatvyapine Namaha
74) OM Jagatkartre Namaha
75) OM Jagatsakshine Namaha
76) OM Jagatpataya Namaha
77) OM Chintitarthapradaya Namaha
78) OM Jishnave Namaha
79) OM Daasharhaaya Namaha
80) OM Dhasharoopavate Namaha
81) OM Devakinandanaya Namaha
82) OM Shauraye Namaha
83) OM Hayagreevaya Namaha
84) OM Janardhanaya Namaha
85) OM Kanyashravanatharejyaya Namaha
86) OM Peetambharadharaya Namaha
87) OM Anagaya Namaha
88) OM Vanamaline Namaha
89) OM Padmanabhaya Namaha
90) OM Mrughayasaktamanasaya Namaha
91) OM Ashvaroodaya Namaha
92) OM Kadghadharine Namaha
93) OM Dhanarjanasamootsukaya Namaha
94) OM Ganasaralasanmadhyakasturitilakojjwalaya Namaha
95) OM Sachitandharoopaya Namaha
96) OM Jaganmangaladayakaya Namaha
97) OM Yajnaroopaya Namaha
98) OM Yajnabokthre Namaha
99) OM Chinmayaya Namaha
100) OM Parameshwaraya Namaha
101) OM Paramarthapradhaya Namaha
102) OM Shanthaya Namaha
103) OM Sreemathe Namaha
104) OM Dordhandhavikramaya Namaha
105) OM Paratparaya Namaha
106) OM Parasmaibrahmane Namaha
107) OM Sreevibhave Namaha
108) OM Jagadeeshwaraya Namaha
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Monday, December 20, 2010
Ninth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Pallaki Seva and Chakrasnana Mahotsavam
On the last day, Pallaki Seva and Chakrasnana Mahotsavam in the morning and Dhwajavarohanam are performed in the evening.
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The processional images are anointed with oil, turmeric powder and other auspicious ingredients and Abhishekam is performed. Sudarsan Chakram is given a bath in the Swami Pushkarini. The Garuda flag is then lowered.
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Eighth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Rathotsavam
On the penultimate day, Rathotsavam is celebrated, in which the Lord is seated in a ratham (chariot) and taken in a procession in the morning.
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It is believed that those who witness Rathotsavam will not be reborn (rathostham kesavam dristva punarjanma na vidyate).
The idols of Daruka (the charioteer of Lord Sri Krishna) and the four horses (Saibyam, Sugreevam, Meghapushpam and Valahakam) are placed before the decorated idols of the Lord and his consorts. This symbolises that the lord’s charioteer is driving the chariot.
The chariot is pulled along by devotees, who chant Govinda!, Govinda! This is the only opportunity that devotees get to be of service to the Lord during Brahmotsavam.
After the Unjal Seva in the night, the deities are taken in the Aswa (horse) Vahana.
Horses formed one of the four wings (ratha, gaja, turanga and pada) of the military forces in ancient times. Aswam, a symbol of energy, means 'one who runs fast'.
Lord Venkateswara travels on a horse when he goes for paruveta. According to Hindu mythology, the horse was born along with Sri Mahalakshmi, Airavatham and Amritam during Sheerasagaramadhanam.
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Seventh Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is on Suryaprabha Vahana
On the morning of the seventh day, the Lord rides on Suryaprabha Vahana (Sun chariot).
Surya (the Sun), the son of Aditi, is another form of Lord Vishnu (Surya Narayana).
Hindu mythology supports the heliocentric theory, and believes that Lord Vishnu is the centre of the universe (dhyassada savitrumandala madhyavarthi). To symbolise this, Lord Venkateswara uses the Suryaprabha (light of the Sun) Vahana.
After the Unjal Seva in the night, the Lord is taken in the Chandraprabha Vahana (moon-shaped vehicle) around the brightly-lit streets of Tirumala.
Chandra means the Moon, which is considered cool and pleasant. According to Hindu mythology, Chandra is the commander of the mind (chandrama manaso jataha). He is also the king ofaushadha (medicine).
It is believed that riding in the Chandraprabha Vahana is a soothing experience for the Lord. The Lord's contentment will bring peace to devotees' minds and result in a good crop.
Sixth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations on Gaja Vahana
On the morning of the sixth day, the deities are carried on a beautifully-decorated Hanumad Vahana.
Hanuman was one of the greatest devotees of Sri Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Hanuman served the Lord so faithfully, that even the Lord could not thank Hanuman enough. Devotees believe that they are indeed blessed if they catch a glimpse of the Lord on Hanumad Vahanam.
Unjal Seva is not performed on the sixth day. Instead, Vasantotsavam (spring festival) is celebrated.
In the night, the Lord is mounted on the Gaja Vahana.Gajam (elephant) is also called the samajam(born from Samaveda). It symbolises wealth (gajamtam aishwaryam). It also symbolises the Airavatam – the vehicle of Devendra, the head of the heavens in Hindu mythology. It also can be attributed to the elephant in Gajendramoksham (story from the Mahabhaghavatam), which is saved from a crocodile by Lord Vishnu.
Therefore, the Lord is taken in a procession seated on a Gaja Vahana during Brahmotsavam.
Fifth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Mohini Avatarotsavam
On the fifth day, Mohini Avatarotsavam is celebrated to commemorate the Lord's incarnation as Mohini, in the morning
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According to legend, the Devatas and the Demons performed Ksheerasagaramadhanam that resulted in amrit (nectar which when consumed grants immortality) and other sacred qualities. The Devatas and the Demons fought for possession of the Amrit. Lord Vishnu then assumed the form of Mohini (a beautiful woman) and procured the Amrit for the Devatas.
The Lord is dressed like Mohini, and He is
taken in a procession in a Pallaki (palanquin).Lord Krishna is also taken in the same procession. This is to celebrate the assistance rendered by Lord Vishnu to the Devatas during Ksheerasagaramadhanam.
After the Unjal Seva in the night, the Lord and his consorts are seated on Garuda Vahana. Lord is decorated with Mahaakanti, Sahasranaramala that day.
According to the ancient Hindu texts, Garuda, the king of birds, is a replica of the Vedas (vedatma vihamgeswara), while Lord Vishnu is the God of the Vedas. Therefore, the Lord sees Himself in Garuda. In the Vaishnava Puranas, Garuda is also called periyatiruvadi, meaning the first devotee.
Therefore, Lord Venkateswara selected Garuda as his vehicle for the most important day of the Brahmotsavam. Garuda Vahana is the greatest of all the Vahanas. A large number of pilgrims visit the temple on this day.
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Fourth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Kalpavriksha Vahana
On the fourth day, the deities are carried in a Kalpavriksha Vahana in the morning.
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Kalpavriksham is a tree that is believed to grant boons and fulfil devotees’ wishes. The vehicle shaped like the Kalpavriksham signifies that the Lord grants boons and fulfils the wishes of his devotees.
In the night, after the Unjal Seva, the deities are carried in a Sarvabhoopala Vahana.
Sarvabhoopala means 'all the kings of Mother Earth'. According to the Hindu religion, kings, like Lord Vishnu, should always protect their people (na vishnuhu prithivi pathihi).
To thank Lord Vishnu for his ideals and pray to him, the kings take the form of the Sarvabhoopala Vahana on the fourth day of Brahmotsavam.
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Third Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Simhavahana
On the morning of the third day, the deities are carried on the Simhavahana.
Simha (lion) is a symbol of regality and power. According to the Bhagvad Gita, the Lord is the Simha among animals (mriganamcha mrigandroham). The Lord is also called Hari (which in turn means Simha) and Hari sits on Simha. In other words, we have the phenomenon of the Lord sitting on Himself.
It is also believed that the Lord assumed the form of Narasimha (half man and half lion) to kill the demon Hiranyakasipu. Therefore, Lord Venkateswara uses the Simha as his vehicle on the third day of Brahmotsavam.
In the night, Unjal Seva is conducted. The deities then ride in the Mutayalapandiri Vahana, which is decorated with a pearl canopy. Mutyam (pearl) is a symbol of purity and royalty.
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Second Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations in Tirumala
On the second day, the Lord is taken around the streets of the temple on the Chinna Seshavahana in the morning.
In the night, the deities are taken to the Uyala Mandapam for the Unjal Seva. They are then taken around the streets of Tirumala on the Hamsavahana.
Hamsa or swan means ‘pure’. Hamsa is believed to have a high intellectual capability, and can distinguish the good from the bad. In addition, Hamsa is visually appearing. It is for these reasons that Lord Brahma uses Hamsa not only as his vehicle, but also to chant the Vedas (the Vedas are believed to have emanated from the soul of Vishnu).
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First Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Dhwajarohana
On the first day, Dhwajarohana is conducted by hoisting the Garudadhwaja (flag with the emblem of a black garuda), near the Srivari Alaya Dhwajasthambham.
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A spectacular procession of Lord Venkateswara on the Pedda Seshavahana is taken around the four streets of the main temple from 2200 hrs till midnight.
The meaning of Sesha is ‘to serve’. Adi Sesha is a thousand-headed serpent, on whom Lord Sri Maha Vishnu rests in his abode, Vaikuntam.
Tirumala Hills, the abode of Lord Sri Venkateswara, is believed to be the manifestation of Adisesha. In commemoration of this event, the Lord is carried in a procession around the streets of Tirumala on the Seshavahana (vehicle shaped like Adisesha) during the first two days of Brahmotsavam (Pedda Seshavahana and Chinna Seshavahana).
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Brahmotsavam in Tirumala is celebrated for 9 days
Day | Morning | Evening | Ankurarpana and Senadhipati Utsavam are celebrated on the day preceding the first day of Brahmotsavam. |
First | Dwajarohanam | Pedda Sesha Vahanam | |
Second | Chinna Sesha Vahanam | Hamsa Vahanam | |
Third | Simha Vahanam | Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam | |
Fourth | Kalpavriksha Vahanam | Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam | |
Fifth | Mohini Avataram | Garuda Seva | |
Sixth | Hanumantha Vahanam | Swarna Ratham, Gajavahanam | |
Seventh | Suryaprabha Vahanam | Chandraprabha Vahanam | |
Eighth | Rathotsavam | Aswa Vahanam | |
Ninth | Pallaki Utsavam, Chakrasnanam | Golden Tiruchi Utsavam, Dwajavarohanam |
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Saturday, November 27, 2010
Attractions of Tirupati: Chandragiri Fort
Chandragiri is famous for the historical fort, built in the 11th century, and the Raja Mahal (Palace) within it. Chandragiri was under the rule of Yadava rayas for about three centuries and came into control of Vijayanagar rulers in 1367. It came into prominence during Saluva Narasimha Rayalu,he got the title of Mahamandaleswara and his illustrious Prime minister Chitti Gangarayalu (Ganganamatyudu) was known for his vision, wisdom and rectitude and was revered as a Bhisma Pitamaha in his times, he was the person who identified intellectualism of Timmarasu and taken him into the service of Chandragiri and later promoted to the Prime minister of Vijayanagar Empire. Gangaraya discendents served the Vijayanagara empire as trusted Generals and Governors for several generations, Chandragiri was the 4th capital of Vijayanagar Empire, Rayas shifted their capital to here when Golconda sultans attacked Penukonda. In 1646 the fort was annexed to the Golkonda territory and subsequently came under Mysore rule. It went into oblivion from 1792 onward. The fort encircles eight ruined temples of saivite and vaishnavite pantheons, Raja Mahal, Rani Mahal and other ruined structures.
Raja Mahal Palace, Chandragiri
The Raja Mahal Palace (shown in picture) is now an archeological museum. The palace is three storeyed, is an example of Indo-Sarcen architecture of Vijayanagar period. The crowning towers represents the Hindu architectural elements. The palace was constructed using stone, brick, lime mortar and devoid of timber.
Koneti Naidu, who was made the king of Penukonda by the Vijayanagar Raya was the great-grandson of Kanaka Naidu of Chandragiri Royal Family, Koneti Naidu belonged to Vasarasi family of Balijas and he ruled for about fourteen years.
Laser show is organized in fort premises during weekends, 7pm
The Raja Mahal Palace (shown in picture) is now an archeological museum. The palace is three storeyed, is an example of Indo-Sarcen architecture of Vijayanagar period. The crowning towers represents the Hindu architectural elements. The palace was constructed using stone, brick, lime mortar and devoid of timber.
Koneti Naidu, who was made the king of Penukonda by the Vijayanagar Raya was the great-grandson of Kanaka Naidu of Chandragiri Royal Family, Koneti Naidu belonged to Vasarasi family of Balijas and he ruled for about fourteen years.
Laser show is organized in fort premises during weekends, 7pm
The Seven Sacred Hills of Tirumala, Tirupati:
The picturesque Tirumala hills is situated 2820 ft above MSL and is about 100sq.m in area. It comprises seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Audisesha, thus earning the name Seshachalam.
The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Vedadri, Garudadri, Anjandri, Vrishabhadri, Narayandri and Venkatadri (Adri in sanskrit means Hill).
The Venkatam hill is believed to be a part of the celestial mount meru, brought to the earth from Vaikuntam by Garuda.The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak,Venkatdri and there are several legends associated with the manifestation of the lord in Tirumala. The shrine of the lord is very ancient and there are ample references to it in the early inscriptions belonging to the Chola and Pallava periods as well in the Sangam literature.
The abode of the lord is about 10 Km north-west of Tirupati and there are footsteps leading to the hill as well as two separate serpentine roads to reach the shrine. According to legend, God Vishnu revealed himself earlier in the previous incarnations as Varahaswamy on the banks of the present temple tank. This manifestation of the white boar (Sveta Varaham) is enshrined in the Adi Varahaswany temple situated on the northeastern banks of the tank.
The Sanctum sanctorum called the Garbha Griha is where the main idol of lord Venkateswara resides. The idol stands majestically to a height of eight feet, in the centre of the sanctum directly beneath a gold guilded dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divay Vimana. The exquisitely wrought idol called the Mulabera is believed to be Svayambhu(self manifested), according to the legends. Further, no human being is known to have either sculpted or installed the idol in the shrine.
On normal days the imposing idol is adorned with a golden Kiritam which has a large emerald embedded on its front. On special occasions like the Brahmothsavam, he is adorned with his precious diamond crown worth Rs 30 Crores. On his forehead, the lord has a thick double patch of upright Namam drawn with refined camphor which screens his eyes. In between the two white patches is the Kasturi tilakam. His ear's are bedecked with shinning golden Makara Kundalas. The fist of his right raised hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra and the correponding left fist is with the Sankha. The slightly outstretched right hand has its finger pointing to his lotus feet, as the only recourse to his devotees to attain oneness with him and enjoy eternal bliss. His right hand is akimbo to assure his devotees of protection and to show the proverbial SamsaraSagara, the ocean of mundane life,is only hip deep if they seek refuge in him.
He has on the right side of his chest a clear impression of Goddess Lakshmi's, his consort. The deity has a unique magnetism, many devotees who go through the fleeting Sarvadarsanam have unusual psychic experience. They leave with a sense of spiritual satisfaction, coupled with a religious hunger to stand in front of Lord Venkateswara and experience the bliss again and again.
The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Vedadri, Garudadri, Anjandri, Vrishabhadri, Narayandri and Venkatadri (Adri in sanskrit means Hill).
The Venkatam hill is believed to be a part of the celestial mount meru, brought to the earth from Vaikuntam by Garuda.The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak,Venkatdri and there are several legends associated with the manifestation of the lord in Tirumala. The shrine of the lord is very ancient and there are ample references to it in the early inscriptions belonging to the Chola and Pallava periods as well in the Sangam literature.
The abode of the lord is about 10 Km north-west of Tirupati and there are footsteps leading to the hill as well as two separate serpentine roads to reach the shrine. According to legend, God Vishnu revealed himself earlier in the previous incarnations as Varahaswamy on the banks of the present temple tank. This manifestation of the white boar (Sveta Varaham) is enshrined in the Adi Varahaswany temple situated on the northeastern banks of the tank.
The Sanctum sanctorum called the Garbha Griha is where the main idol of lord Venkateswara resides. The idol stands majestically to a height of eight feet, in the centre of the sanctum directly beneath a gold guilded dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divay Vimana. The exquisitely wrought idol called the Mulabera is believed to be Svayambhu(self manifested), according to the legends. Further, no human being is known to have either sculpted or installed the idol in the shrine.
On normal days the imposing idol is adorned with a golden Kiritam which has a large emerald embedded on its front. On special occasions like the Brahmothsavam, he is adorned with his precious diamond crown worth Rs 30 Crores. On his forehead, the lord has a thick double patch of upright Namam drawn with refined camphor which screens his eyes. In between the two white patches is the Kasturi tilakam. His ear's are bedecked with shinning golden Makara Kundalas. The fist of his right raised hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra and the correponding left fist is with the Sankha. The slightly outstretched right hand has its finger pointing to his lotus feet, as the only recourse to his devotees to attain oneness with him and enjoy eternal bliss. His right hand is akimbo to assure his devotees of protection and to show the proverbial SamsaraSagara, the ocean of mundane life,is only hip deep if they seek refuge in him.
He has on the right side of his chest a clear impression of Goddess Lakshmi's, his consort. The deity has a unique magnetism, many devotees who go through the fleeting Sarvadarsanam have unusual psychic experience. They leave with a sense of spiritual satisfaction, coupled with a religious hunger to stand in front of Lord Venkateswara and experience the bliss again and again.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Recommended Restaurants in Tirupati
Nitya Anna Dana Hall
Basic free meals consisting of vegetable dishes, chutney, rice, sambhar, rasam and buttermilk are provided at the Nitya Anna Dana Hall. The hall is one km from temple, next to the shopping complex. Over 25,000 pilgrims eat in this big hall every day. Food is served on tables, either in stainless steel plates or on banana leaves.
Location: Tirumala Temple Premises
Balaji Woodlands
Balaji Woodlands, near the bazaar, is clean and a good option for South Indian tiffin meals.
Location: 206, Achalukya Complex, TP Area
The Saptagiri Woodlands Restaurant
The restaurant is recommended for its hot and tasty South Indian veg snacks and meals. The long dosa and pesarattu are some of the most loved dishes here.
Location: Near the Saptagiri Guesthouse
Woodside Restaurant
The restaurant serves some delicious tiffin meals. The prices are affordable and the restaurant has clean surroundings.
Location: Near the SV Museum
Bhimas Paradise
The restaurant at Bhimas Paradise Hotel serves traditional authentic vegetarian South Indian, North Indian, Chinese, and Mughlai cuisine.
Location: 3-37, Renigunta Road
Hotel Mayura
Hotel Mayura takes pride in its on-site restaurant that whips up pure vegetarian North Indian and South Indian delicacies. The gourmet can also place orders for scrumptious Chinese and Mughlai dishes. The flavor of the food will leave even the most finicky foodie thoroughly pleased.
Location: 209, T.P Area
Vrinda
Vrinda is a pure vegetarian restaurant in Sindhuri Park Hotel. The restaurant serves delicious North Indian, Chinese and South Indian food. The hotel provides an unforgettable experience of dining in a restaurant adorned with appealing wall-hangs and gorgeous Radha-Krishna idols. There is also an adjoining mini dining hall for small parties and family dinners.
Location: TP Area, Opp. Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Pushkarini
Basic free meals consisting of vegetable dishes, chutney, rice, sambhar, rasam and buttermilk are provided at the Nitya Anna Dana Hall. The hall is one km from temple, next to the shopping complex. Over 25,000 pilgrims eat in this big hall every day. Food is served on tables, either in stainless steel plates or on banana leaves.
Location: Tirumala Temple Premises
Balaji Woodlands
Balaji Woodlands, near the bazaar, is clean and a good option for South Indian tiffin meals.
Location: 206, Achalukya Complex, TP Area
The Saptagiri Woodlands Restaurant
The restaurant is recommended for its hot and tasty South Indian veg snacks and meals. The long dosa and pesarattu are some of the most loved dishes here.
Location: Near the Saptagiri Guesthouse
Woodside Restaurant
The restaurant serves some delicious tiffin meals. The prices are affordable and the restaurant has clean surroundings.
Location: Near the SV Museum
Bhimas Paradise
The restaurant at Bhimas Paradise Hotel serves traditional authentic vegetarian South Indian, North Indian, Chinese, and Mughlai cuisine.
Location: 3-37, Renigunta Road
Hotel Mayura
Hotel Mayura takes pride in its on-site restaurant that whips up pure vegetarian North Indian and South Indian delicacies. The gourmet can also place orders for scrumptious Chinese and Mughlai dishes. The flavor of the food will leave even the most finicky foodie thoroughly pleased.
Location: 209, T.P Area
Vrinda
Vrinda is a pure vegetarian restaurant in Sindhuri Park Hotel. The restaurant serves delicious North Indian, Chinese and South Indian food. The hotel provides an unforgettable experience of dining in a restaurant adorned with appealing wall-hangs and gorgeous Radha-Krishna idols. There is also an adjoining mini dining hall for small parties and family dinners.
Location: TP Area, Opp. Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Pushkarini
Quick facts about Tirupati
Tirupati Information & Fact file
Altitude | 750 meters | |
Temp | Summer: 45 (max) and 40 (min) Degrees Celsius Winter: 30 (max) & 15 (min) Degrees Celsius | |
Best time to Go | Oct - March | |
Monsoon | July - Sept | |
Summer | March - June | |
Winter | Oct - Feb | |
Clothes | Light cottons in summers and woolen clothes during winters as it is usually cold in Tirumala. | |
Nearest Airport | Tirupati | |
Railway Station | Tirupati | |
Bus Station | Tirupati | |
Hospital & Doctor | SVIMS, Tirupati | |
Sightseeing | Tirumala Balaji Temple, Silathoranam, Theerthams, Papvinasanam... |
Overview on Tirupati
Tirupati, the place which constantly reverberates with the holy chanting of Om Namo Narayanaya and reminds of delicious laddus distributed as prasadam, is a major pilgrimage city drawing devotees from all over the country and abroad.
Tirupati is prominently known for Tirumala, the place of seven hills which is the abode of great lord Balaji usually called as lord Venkateswara or Srinivasa. The city is located in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, in Chittoor district, located at the foothills of Eastern Ghats. The temple here is said to be the busiest in the world, eclipsing even Rome, Jerusalem and Mecca with the number of pilgrims visiting it.
The term 'Tirupati' is made of two words, where 'Tiru' means 'Sri' and 'Pati' means 'Husband'. Thus, 'Tirupati' suggests 'Maha Vishnu' or 'Lord of Maha Lakshmi'. Tirumala is located atop the hill which comprises of seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Adisesha, thus earning the name, Seshachalam.
Popular as the richest and most opulent temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam (TTD). It is thronged by the devotees all around the year that it is not unusual for pilgrims to stand in line for hours together to witness a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few seconds, which take you to experience the pinnacle of divinity within those few precious seconds standing before God in the temple.
Apart from the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, there are plethora of other temples in and around the city which are worth visiting. In addition to various shrines scattered all over Tirupati and beyond, there are holy water falls, sacred rivers and archaeological wonders too.
Most of the devotees visit the temple to give their offerings on fulfillment of their vows, by either dropping them in Hundi or by tonsuring their heads. Walking up to the tmple is also treated as one offering to God. The path up to the doors of the Tirupati temple is around 12 km, comprising nearly 3500 plus stairs in total as one crosses seven hills.
Tirupati also offers some delicious cuisines reflecting the authentic Rayalaseema food, famous for its spiciness and hot chili flavor.
Tirupati is prominently known for Tirumala, the place of seven hills which is the abode of great lord Balaji usually called as lord Venkateswara or Srinivasa. The city is located in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, in Chittoor district, located at the foothills of Eastern Ghats. The temple here is said to be the busiest in the world, eclipsing even Rome, Jerusalem and Mecca with the number of pilgrims visiting it.
The term 'Tirupati' is made of two words, where 'Tiru' means 'Sri' and 'Pati' means 'Husband'. Thus, 'Tirupati' suggests 'Maha Vishnu' or 'Lord of Maha Lakshmi'. Tirumala is located atop the hill which comprises of seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Adisesha, thus earning the name, Seshachalam.
Popular as the richest and most opulent temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam (TTD). It is thronged by the devotees all around the year that it is not unusual for pilgrims to stand in line for hours together to witness a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few seconds, which take you to experience the pinnacle of divinity within those few precious seconds standing before God in the temple.
Apart from the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, there are plethora of other temples in and around the city which are worth visiting. In addition to various shrines scattered all over Tirupati and beyond, there are holy water falls, sacred rivers and archaeological wonders too.
Most of the devotees visit the temple to give their offerings on fulfillment of their vows, by either dropping them in Hundi or by tonsuring their heads. Walking up to the tmple is also treated as one offering to God. The path up to the doors of the Tirupati temple is around 12 km, comprising nearly 3500 plus stairs in total as one crosses seven hills.
Tirupati also offers some delicious cuisines reflecting the authentic Rayalaseema food, famous for its spiciness and hot chili flavor.
How to reach Tirupati by Train
Trains connected to Tirupati from all places of India
Tirupati Railway Station is connected by trains from Bangalore, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Mumbai. A major railhead nearby is Renigunta, which is 15 km away. Renigunta is located in Trivandrum – Delhi route, which is connected to all cities in India by rail.
Tirupati Railway Station is connected by trains from Bangalore, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Mumbai. A major railhead nearby is Renigunta, which is 15 km away. Renigunta is located in Trivandrum – Delhi route, which is connected to all cities in India by rail.
Starting Station | Train | Arrival at Tirupati | Service Days |
Bangalore (SBC) 5 more trains | Seshadri Expres (7209) | 07:55 PM (duration: 6h 35m) | All Days |
Chennai (MAS) 1 more train | Sapthagiri Exp (6057) | 09:30 AM (duration: 3h 5m) | All Days |
Tirupathi Exp (6053) | 05:00 PM (duration: 3h 10m) | All Days | |
Delhi (NDLS) 5 more trains | Kerala Express (2626) | 09:05 PM (duration: 33h 35m) | All Days |
Hyderabad (SC) 6 more trains | Narayanadri Exp (2734) | 06:05 AM (duration: 12h) | All Days |
Padmavati Exp (2764) | 07:00 AM (duration: 12h 30m) | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun | |
Mumbai (CSTM) | Nagarcoil Exp (6351) | 10:45 AM (duration: 22h 40m) | Tue & Sat |
Kanyakumari Exp (6381) | 02:30 PM (duration: 22h 45m) | All Days | |
Adilabad (ADB) | Krishna Exp (7406) | 09:25 PM (duration: 24h 25m) | All Days |
Bhubaneswar (BBS) 3 more trains | Bbs Ypr Sup Exp (2845) | 03:45 AM (duration: 20h 15m) | Sun |
Bilaspur (BSP) | Bsp Tpty Expres (7481) | 04:05 PM (duration: 30h) | Tue & Sat |
Chamarajanagar (CMNR) | Tirupati Passr (213) | 05:35 AM (duration: 14h 35m) | All Days |
Chittoor (CTO) 15 more trains | Venkatadri Exp (2798) | 06:30 PM (duration: 1h) | All Days |
Coimbatore (CBE) 9 more trains | Cbe Tirupaty Ex (0623) | 07:30 AM (duration: 8h 55m) | Tue |
Ernakulam (ERS) 6 more trains | Nizamuddin Exp (2645) | 07:30 AM (duration: 12h 40m) | Sat |
Ers Patna Exp (6359) | 12:10 PM (duration: 13h 25m) | Sat | |
Guntur (GNT) 2 more trains | Gnt Tpty Pas (440) | 11:45 AM (duration: 10h 45m) | All Days |
H Nizamuddin (NZM) 3 more trains | Ers Millenum Ex (2646) | 05:10 PM (duration: 35h 10m) | Tue |
Swarna Jayanti (2644) | 05:10 PM (duration: 35h 10m) | Fri | |
Hatia (HTE) | Hte Ypr Express (2835) | 10:00 PM (duration: 27h 40m) | Tue & Sun |
Howrah (HWH) | Hwh Pdy Exp (2867) | 01:20 AM (duration: 25h 50m) | Sun |
Hwh Ypr Express (2863) | 11:40 PM (duration: 27h 5m) | All Days | |
Hubli (UBL) 1 more train | Ubl Tirupati Pa (271) | 09:00 PM (duration: 15h) | All Days |
Hyderabad Decan (HYB) | Sabari Exp (7230) | 12:30 AM (duration: 12h 30m) | All Days |
Rayalaseema Exp (7429) | 08:45 AM (duration: 15h 20m) | All Days | |
Jammu (JAT) | Navyug Express (6688) | 01:20 AM (duration: 49h 35m) | Thu |
Himsagar Exp (6318) | 01:20 AM (duration: 49h 35m) | Mon | |
Kacheguda (KCG) 2 more trains | Venkatadri Exp (2797) | 07:30 AM (duration: 11h 25m) | All Days |
Kakinada (CCT) 1 more train | Sheshadri Exp (7210) | 05:25 AM (duration: 11h 50m) | All Days |
Kakinada Port (COA) | Tirupati Psgr (274) | 02:40 AM (duration: 19h 40m) | All Days |
Kanyakumari (CAPE) | Cape Mumbai Exp (6382) | 03:20 AM (duration: 21h 50m) | All Days |
Himsagar Exp (6317) | 09:08 AM (duration: 19h 8m) | Fri | |
Kolhapur (KOP) | Haripriya Exp (7416) | 08:45 AM (duration: 21h 10m) | All Days |
Machelipatnam (MTM) | Mtm Tpty Exp (7402) | 04:35 AM (duration: 9h 35m) | All Days |
Mangalore Cntl (MAQ) | Navyug Exp (6687) | 09:08 AM (duration: 16h 48m) | Mon |
Nagercoil (NCJ) 2 more trains | Gurudev Express (2659) | 09:08 AM (duration: 18h 33m) | Sun |
Ncj Mumbai Exp (6352) | 09:40 PM (duration: 16h 50m) | Thu & Sun | |
Narasapuram (NS) | Ns Tpty Exp (7402A) | 04:35 AM (duration: 11h 20m) | All Days |
Okha (OKHA) | Rameswaram Exp (6734) | 06:10 AM (duration: 48h 5m) | Tue |
Patna (PNBE) | Pnbe Ers Expres (6360) | 09:50 AM (duration: 41h 20m) | Tue |
Pondicherry (PDY) | Pdy Howrah Exp (2868) | 07:30 PM (duration: 8h) | Wed |
Puri (PURI) 4 more trains | Puri Tpty Exp (7479) | 04:05 PM (duration: 27h 5m) | Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri & Sun |
Rameswaram (RMM) 3 more trains | Rmm Okha Expres (6733) | 11:10 AM (duration: 14h 20m) | Fri |
Shalimar (SHM) | Gurudev Express (2660) | 03:45 AM (duration: 28h 45m) | Wed |
Tatanagar Jn (TATA) | Tata Ypr Exp (2889) | 10:00 PM (duration: 27h 25m) | Fri |
Tirunelveli (TEN) 1 more train | Ten Jammu Exp (06317) | 09:08 AM (duration: 17h 23m) | Mon & Fri |
Ten Jammu Exp (06687) | 09:08 AM (duration: 17h 23m) | Mon | |
Trivandrum (TVC) 4 more trains | Sabari Express (7229) | 12:30 AM (duration: 17h 15m) | All Days |
Kerala Express (2625) | 03:50 AM (duration: 16h 35m) | All Days | |
Visakhapatnam (VSKP) 6 more trains | Tirumala Exp (7488) | 05:00 AM (duration: 15h 10m) | All Days |
Yesvantpur Jn (YPR) 2 more trains | Ypr Howrah Exp (2864) | 02:30 AM (duration: 6h 55m) | All Days |
Ypr Tata Exp (2890) | 02:35 PM (duration: 6h 5m) | Mon |
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