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The holy hill of Tirumala is one of the most important piligrimage centres in India,and the Venkateswara Temple here is claimed ti be the busiest in the world. Existence in the 12th century with the founding of Govindarajaswamy temple. Sri Venkateshwara temple, the abode of Lord Venkateshwara, also known as Balaji in the north and Srinivasa in southern parts of India,is one of the most famous temples in India and is located at Tirumala,18 km. northwest of Tirupati at a height of 874 mt. above sea level amidst the hills known as seven hills of the Eastern Ghats
It is believed that Lord Vishnu (Balaji) enchanted by the charm of the hill Seshachalam, settled down here to meditate and in course of time his body was transformed into stone. Also, according to the Puranas,the hills represent the body of Adisesha on which Lord Vishnu, the protector of the world, is said to rest. The seven hills denote the seven hoods of Adisesha on which Venkatachalapati resides. The origin of the temple is shrouded in antiquity and is regarded as one of the most ancient temples in India. It was patronised by the Pallavas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagara rulers and later by the kings of Mysore The idol of Lord Venkateshwara has the attributes of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, a happy compromise appealing at once to both Vaishnavites and Shaivites.
Sri Venkateshwara temple, the richest shrine in India, attracts a steady flow of pilgrims throughout the year eager to have a glimpse of Lord Venkateshwara in his bejewelled glory. The main temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with its "Ananda Nilaya Vimanam", the granite canopy over the sanctum sanctorum, covered with gilded copper sheets. The temple flagpost is also gold plated.
Tirumala, Sep 21 2009Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of Pedda Sesha Vahanam
The Srivari Brahmotsavam begins with the parade of the Vishwakshena , the commander of the forces of Lord Vishnu ( Lord Venkateswara ) .As part of the procession Lord Venkateswara appears before his devotees on his pet vahana of Adishesha .Legend says that Adishesha is the most beloved and obedient member of the celestial entourage of Sri Vishnu in all his a vatars . He is identified as Lakshmana in Ramavataram, Balram in Dwapara etc. “ Adishesha is the closest to Lord Vishnu as he comes his vehicle, bed , throne ,an umbrella , shelter and also foot wear .In almost eight inscriptions of the historic literature Adi shesha is described as worthy of daily worship as -“ Sheshaya, SheshaStutya , Sheshadri Nilayaha, Bhogindra Bho samsthanaha “.In the Kaliyuga Adishesha is described to have incarnated as Govindaraja, Venkatachala, Ayurveda exponent Charaka , linguist Panini , Yoga sutra innovator Patanjali and also as Sri Ramanuja, campaigner of Vishistha advaita cult “ says Chief priest of Dr. A.V. Ramana Dikshitulu .The procession of the first day of Sri Venkateswara along with his consorts is taken on the vehicle decorated with the golden Adishesha ( serpent god ) along the Four mada streets where lakhs of people gather to witness the diety appearing before them in all grandeur and pay their reverence.
On the second day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam in his incarnation as Malayalappa swami , Lord Venkateswara appears on a Five hooded Chinna Shesha Vahanam .
As per the puranas and mythology the Chinna Shesha Vahanam is represented as Vasuki, the Lord Venkateswara is hailed for using him as his vehicle to convey yet another message to the mankind.
As per the Vaishanava tradition Srivari procession on Chinna Shesha Vahanam denoted the need for rejuvenation of seven charkas in the human body which shape up his mental and physical abilities . The Chinna Shesha Vahanam representing Vasuki is considered as a rejuvenator of these seven charkas .
All those who witness the procession of Lord Venkateswara on his i Chinna Sehsha Vahana procession will thus benefit from the ‘Yoga Siddhi “effect of Srivari divine energy .
The grand procession of Lord Venkateswara on the second day of Srivari Brahmotsavam is on Hamsa Vahanam .Lord Venkateswara in his incarnation as Malayalappaswami will give darshan to his devotees as Veenapani Saraswati atop he Brahmas’s vehicle of Hamsa or Swan . Hamsa also represented the Surya ( sun god ) in Indian mythology as those who had attained spiritual levels with God are also called ‘Paramahamsa’ as well .The procession of Lord Venkateswara on Hamsa Vahanam also denoted his incarnation as Lord Vishnu in the form of Sun God, say saints and exponents of Mythology.
Tirumala, Sep 22 2009
2nd day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of Hamsa Vahanam
Swan or Hamsa also stands out for its capabilities to weed out the good from the bad . In other words the celestial bird is known for its in-born virtues to segregate the milk from water in a pot of mixed liquid. This is considered a divine blessing of Lord Venkateswara to weed out the bad qualities in a human being and retain only the good virtues .
As per the puranas and mythology the Chinna Shesha Vahanam is represented as Vasuki, the Lord Venkateswara is hailed for using him as his vehicle to convey yet another message to the mankind.
As per the Vaishanava tradition Srivari procession on Chinna Shesha Vahanam denoted the need for rejuvenation of seven charkas in the human body which shape up his mental and physical abilities . The Chinna Shesha Vahanam representing Vasuki is considered as a rejuvenator of these seven charkas .
All those who witness the procession of Lord Venkateswara on his i Chinna Sehsha Vahana procession will thus benefit from the ‘Yoga Siddhi “effect of Srivari divine energy .
The grand procession of Lord Venkateswara on the second day of Srivari Brahmotsavam is on Hamsa Vahanam .Lord Venkateswara in his incarnation as Malayalappaswami will give darshan to his devotees as Veenapani Saraswati atop he Brahmas’s vehicle of Hamsa or Swan . Hamsa also represented the Surya ( sun god ) in Indian mythology as those who had attained spiritual levels with God are also called ‘Paramahamsa’ as well .The procession of Lord Venkateswara on Hamsa Vahanam also denoted his incarnation as Lord Vishnu in the form of Sun God, say saints and exponents of Mythology.
Tirumala, Sep 22 20092nd day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of Hamsa Vahanam
Swan or Hamsa also stands out for its capabilities to weed out the good from the bad . In other words the celestial bird is known for its in-born virtues to segregate the milk from water in a pot of mixed liquid. This is considered a divine blessing of Lord Venkateswara to weed out the bad qualities in a human being and retain only the good virtues .
On the third day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam , Lord Venkateswara will give darshan outside his temple to lakhs devotees who come from all over the world on his vehicle of Simha ( Lion ) .
The incarnation of Lord Vishnu as the Mrugendrudu ( most ferocious and strong among the animals ) is an indication of Lord Venkateswara as a powerful entity born to punish the erring anti social elements on the universe for protection of the righteous, poor and the weaker sections in the society .
Being a Simha , is the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as ‘Narasimha’ whom the puranas and legends speak in volumes of his drive against ‘Dushta’ ( wrong doers) and protection of the weak, poor and the god fearing persons.
Tirumala, Sep 23 2009
3rd Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam
Lord Venkateswara appears before his devotees on the third day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam on a vehicle decorated with prices less and resplendent white pearls which denoted peace and patience .
Legend says that pearls , a produce of sea, is formed when the dew and rain drops into pearl chip in the ocean . Even Sri Krishna wore pearl nose rings and necklaces and Lord Venkateswara hailed as “ Alankara priyudu”
On the fourth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateswara adorns the role of Kalpa Vruksha to bless his devotees with their sought after desires for which they vow to serve and worship him .
He rides on the Kalpa Vruksha vahanam and goes around the four mada streets around the temple giving darshan to thousands of people who come for witnessing the Srivari Brahmotsavam.
Legend says that Kalpa Vruksha was one of the elements what erupted when the Adisesha placed his vice grip on the Mandara Mountain where the Deva- Asuras tried to steal the Amrutam (celestial liquid). All those who took shelter under Kalpa vruksha did not have problems of starvation and poverty, says the classic literature of Srimad Bhagavatham
Tirumala, Sep 24 2009
4th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of KALPA VRUKSHA VAHANAM
The incarnation of Lord Vishnu as the Mrugendrudu ( most ferocious and strong among the animals ) is an indication of Lord Venkateswara as a powerful entity born to punish the erring anti social elements on the universe for protection of the righteous, poor and the weaker sections in the society .
Being a Simha , is the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as ‘Narasimha’ whom the puranas and legends speak in volumes of his drive against ‘Dushta’ ( wrong doers) and protection of the weak, poor and the god fearing persons.
Tirumala, Sep 23 20093rd Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam
Lord Venkateswara appears before his devotees on the third day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam on a vehicle decorated with prices less and resplendent white pearls which denoted peace and patience .
Legend says that pearls , a produce of sea, is formed when the dew and rain drops into pearl chip in the ocean . Even Sri Krishna wore pearl nose rings and necklaces and Lord Venkateswara hailed as “ Alankara priyudu”
On the fourth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateswara adorns the role of Kalpa Vruksha to bless his devotees with their sought after desires for which they vow to serve and worship him .He rides on the Kalpa Vruksha vahanam and goes around the four mada streets around the temple giving darshan to thousands of people who come for witnessing the Srivari Brahmotsavam.
Legend says that Kalpa Vruksha was one of the elements what erupted when the Adisesha placed his vice grip on the Mandara Mountain where the Deva- Asuras tried to steal the Amrutam (celestial liquid). All those who took shelter under Kalpa vruksha did not have problems of starvation and poverty, says the classic literature of Srimad Bhagavatham
Tirumala, Sep 24 20094th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of KALPA VRUKSHA VAHANAM
The Srivari Brahmotsavam the Malayalappa swami alias Lord Venkateswara presents himself as the king of kings to his devotees who throng Tirumala on the Sarva bhoopala Vahanam.
Sarva bhoopala means the Devas in charge of the earth, water and air become the pall bearers of his vehicle . Along with the Sarva Bhupalas, the Dikpala’s of East-West and South-North etc also join in his service .
“The objective is to display that all the Dikpalas of the universe were not just under the control of Lord venkateswara but also that there was no chance for misuse of office by them under his diligent vigilance and directions “ says Dr.A.V.Ramana Dikshitulu , chief priest of Tirumala Temple .
On the fifth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara stuns his devotees by appearing as a dazzling Mohini and alives up to his reputation as an “alankara priyudu ( well dressed and be-jewelled handsome personality ).
At the same Lord Venkateswara appears as a child Srikrishna before his countless devotees on a pallaki ( palanquin ) made of Ivory and Rose wood presented to the Temple by the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore .
The devout say that by appearing as Mohini during the Srivari Brahmotsavam the Lord had sent a message that the entire universe was a creation of his Maya and those who do not worship him were also hypnotized under the spell of his Mohini avatar to become his followers .
The Garuda Vahanam on the fifth day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam is considered the most significant of all events in the festival .
Garuda or the Eagle is the main and daily vehicle of Lord Vishnu . Besides being the daily transport , Garuda also said to sit atop the Dwajam on the day of Dwajarohanam ( inauguration of Brahmotsavam ) and heralded the event and invited all the Devatas for the event on earth .
25th sept 2009-5th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of GARUDA VAHANAM
On the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam , the presiding deity of Tirumala gives his darshan to his devout followers on the Hanuman Vahanam.
Hanuman is considered one of the top devotees of Lord Vishnu in one of his avatars as Lord Rama . He is also hailed as a exponent of all four vedas, Nava vyakarana pundit and destroyer of Lanka.
Hanuman is considered as an embodiment of Wisdom, Muscle power,Victory, Braveness, health, over active, fearless and common sense . One of the hillocks on the Tirumala hill range is also named as Anjanadri . Known as a vara putra of Anjana born out of power of ‘tapas’, Hanuman.
Hanuman is also described as Bhavishyat Brahma for his blessings and acts denote a special and spiritual path for everyone to abide to lead a peaceful and prosperous livelihood
The sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala heralds a distinct and unique celebration popularly known Swarna Rathotsavam (the festival of the Golden chariot).
Legends say that the golden chariot is considered to be faourite vehicle of Lord Venkateswara. Malayalappa gives darshan to his scores of devotees in grand style as his vehicle is preceeded by Shunya ratham of Brahma and other chariots dragged by Elephant , Ashwa and Vrushaba .
As part of established tradition, the barbers of Kalyana katta-tonsuring centre of Tirumala where thousands offer their hair to the deity to redeem their vows – offer a golden umbrella to the deity of Lord Venkateswara .
Mythology says that the golden chariot of Lord Venkateswara is driven by four horses names as Sugriva, Shaibya, Meghapuspha and Valahaka with Daraka as his sarathi .
The darshan of Lord Venkateswara on his golden chariot is an memorable experience to all devout Hindus. Many pious Hindus consider it an once in a life time experience to witness the golden chariot festival as part of Brahmotsavam of Lord Venkateswara. It is comparable only to the colorful and picturesque Ratha yatra of Lord Krishna in Dwaraka .
Tirumala, Sep 26 2009
6th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - GAJA VAHANAM
In the evening of the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam at tirumala, Lord Venkateswara enthralls the devotees on the Gaja Vahanam. Elephant as been a vehicle of the Tirumala deity from time immemorial .
Elephant as a vehicle is a symbol of wealth of not only the rich but also of the deities of prominent temples in the country .The wealth of Lord Venkateswara Tirumala is wellknown as he is said to be the Kanchana brahma , the one who heard the tinkling of coins trickling into his Hundi every day in thousands and lakhs .
Gaja is representing Iravata- he four ivory teethed elephant which was one of the products of the Mandira parvatam mathanam by Adishesha
The procession of Lord Venkateswara well decorated with jewellery of pearls, diamonds and other precious stones atop the Elephant chariot is a celestial sight for all of his devotees though the presence of the elephant corps of the Temple behind the chariots on all days of the Brahmotsavam is well known .
The mythological lore of Gajendra Moksha of how Lord Vishnu descended to rescue the Gajendra whose feet was caught by the crocodiles. Thus Gajendra concept occupies a dominant position in the realm of ones surrendering to Lord Venkateswara and seeking his blessing as part of repentance.
As contemporary Vedic exponent Geetacharya says “Sava Dharmana Parityajya Ma mekam Sharanam Vraja” , is the message of repentance for devotees to surrender themselves in service of Lord Venkateswara .
The procession of Lord Venkateswara on the seventh day of Srivari Brahmotsavam is atop the Surya prabha vahanam. The Tirumala diety rides atop a vehicle adorned by Surya , the sun god , who was the key architect of lie of both humans, animals and plants .Legends and mythological scripts identify Surya as the element that brought activity among all living things .All devout hindus offer prayers to Sunday god every morning and the Gayatri Mantram triggers a divine energy among all living beings.Surya, the sun god was always rode in a chariot driven by seven horses .He spread light and health in the world and also threw away darkness which symbolized poverty, illiteracy and ignorance.
On the seventh day evening of the Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala the presiding deity Lord Venkateswara rides atop a Chandra Prabha Vahanam to the delight of thousands of who devotees who gather around the four mada streets to witness the divine event .
In the morning Lord Venkateswara was taken around in a Surya Prabha Vahanam and in the evening he is placed atop the Chandra Prabha vahanam.
While Surya stands for energy in its basic form and enlivens the living things in the world ,Chandra stands for promoting medicinal values among living beings including plants .
As per the scripts in the Purushottam Prapti Yagam Chandra is described as a Lord Vishnu becomes an invisible architect creating of medicine for the well being of the society . The Saint exponent Geeta Charya also refers to “Nakshatrana Aham Shashi” ( I am a spot on he moon) indicating the presence of moon as an integral part of the celestial system .
The procession of Lord Venkateswara on the Chandra Prabha Chariot is a delightful sight for all the devouts and pious people who throng Tirumala for the Brahmotsavam festival .
“ The Chandra Prabha Vahanam is an indication of the significance and concern attached in those days for traditional school of herbal and ayurvedic medicine “, says Dr. A.V.Ramana Dikshitulu, chief priest of Tirumala temple.
The florists from Coimbatore who are specially brought for making garlands for all the festivals of Brahmotsavam make a special 18 feet garland and a arch made of White jasmine colours as per the agama shastras and enriched the divine energy of the idols on display .
Tirumala, Sep 27 2009
7th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - CHANDRA PRABHA VAHANAM
On the penultimate day of Srivari Brahmotsavam , on the eigth day, the Malayalappaswami is seated on a high pedestal throne and taken ina procession around the four mada streets around Tirumala for the benefit of devotees who throng the temple town for a glimpse of Lord Venkateswara in various vahanams and in forms .
Tirumala, Sep 28 2009
8th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - RATHOTSAVAM
Tirumala, Sep 29 2009
9th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - CHAKRASNANAM
The Srivari Brahmotsavam comes to a conclusion on the Ninth day with the Chakrasnanam event at the Swami Puskarini near the Tirumala Temple.
The chakrasnanm significies the close of the nine day celebrations and the festivities. The deity is taken in a Pallaki utsavam in the early hours on the four mada streets before preparations are made for the Chakrasnanam. The Utsava deities and the Sri Chakrathalwar are offered Panchamrutha snapana Thirumanjanam at the Sri Varahaswamy temple .
"Not less than seven magnificent crowns make up for the jewellery kitty of Lord Venkateswara, including 11 tonnes of gold, ornaments and other precious jewels. But, what is bothering the priests and Vedic pundits is the overweight of the offerings, particularly the crowns.A temple priest said the 8-ft Moola Viraat (the principal idol of the Lord) is adorned by not less than 60-70 kg of gold ornaments on any given day."
Mr.Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy, Member Of Parliament has donated Rs 3.70 crore worth golden Peethamburam (golden vesture) to the Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala on Thursday evening. This Golden Peethamburam (a gold cover to place over the bottom of the deity from the waist) Mr.Reddy has handed over the golden vesture, weighing 21 kgs to the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams(TTD) Executive officer IYR Krishna Rao inside the temple.
Sri Pratap.C. Reddy of Apollo Hospital, Chennai has donated Rs. 80 lakhs worth Golden KATI, VAIKUNTA HASTHAMS weighing approx 5.6kgs to the Lord of Seven Hills. He has handed the gift to the TTD Spl Officer Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy inside Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on Thursday night. [nov 2008]
Sri Pratap Reddy of Penna Cement, Hyderabad is seen donating Rs. 5 crores worth Diamond studded Golden KATI, VAIKUNTA HASTHAMS to the Lord of Seven Hills. TTD Chairman Sri B.Karunakara Reddy is also seen.
Sri Venkateshwara or Balaji, is a form of the Lord Vishnu only. Sri Krishna is also an Avatar of Lord Vishnu. So Sri Krishna, Lord Vishnu or Sri Venkateshwara or Balaji are one & the same God. As per the Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu, out of love towards his devotees, incarnated as Sri Venkateshwara and appeared for the salvation and upliftment of humanity in this Kali Yuga (dark age) and is considered the supreme form of Vishnu in this age. Meaning of Lord Venkateshwara is the one Supreme Lord who destroys sins.
Lord Venkateshwara is famous for being the most-visited shrine in the world and its prime deity for being the richest God in the world. This temple is in the town of Chittor District of Andhra Pradesh in India & is located in the foot hills of Tirumala. It is around 140 km from Chennai and 740 km from Hyderabad city in India.
In the temple the black idol of Lord Balaji is covered in gold, jewellery and precious ornaments and its height is 2 meters.The sacred shrine is visited by millions of devotees from far and wide and has been worshipped consistently since the past thirteen years. Every year more than 12 million people visit this temple from within India and the world. Every year the temple receives around Indian Rs 10 Billion ( More than 200 Million US$) in offerings from the devotees
Divya Mangala Swarupam
The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri Hills on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini & because of this reason only Lord Balaji has been named Venkateswara. The Greatness & opulence of Lord Balaji, the Preserver of the Whole Universe, is reflected in his richly ornamented life-size idol in the Tirumala Tirupati temple.
Lord During Bramhostavam
Malayappaswami is the utsava murthi of Lord Sri Venkateswara.His ubhaya nacchiyars (twoconsorts) are Sri Devi and Bhu Devi
Tirumala Rama idol is one of the idols in the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh. While the temple is dedicated to worship of lord Vishnu as Venkateswara, it contains the idols of some of Vishnu's other avatars - Rama and Krishna. The idol is usually accompanied by his consort Sita and his brother Lakshman
Idols of Lord Rama (center) with his wife Sita (left) and brother Lakshmana (right) in the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple as seen during Vasanthotsavam festival
Hanuman idol in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple as seen during Vasanthotsavam festival. The idol of Hanuman is usually kept sideways on to the right side of Lord Rama. The idol stands on a pedestral and has Rama's favorite disciple in a wide eyed expression indicating his ever-present enthusiasm to serve his Lord. In addition, the right hand is bent at the elbow and touches the mouth in a posture than conveys Hanuman's mark of respect for Rama. The left hand is in the Katyavalambita pose (left palm closed and resting on the waist and the outer side of the palm is seen to the onlookers)
Lord Krishna with Rukmini during the Vasanthotsavam festival in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
Message from Shri Shirdi Sai baba's teachings for 27th October
Sarva bhoopala means the Devas in charge of the earth, water and air become the pall bearers of his vehicle . Along with the Sarva Bhupalas, the Dikpala’s of East-West and South-North etc also join in his service .
“The objective is to display that all the Dikpalas of the universe were not just under the control of Lord venkateswara but also that there was no chance for misuse of office by them under his diligent vigilance and directions “ says Dr.A.V.Ramana Dikshitulu , chief priest of Tirumala Temple .
On the fifth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara stuns his devotees by appearing as a dazzling Mohini and alives up to his reputation as an “alankara priyudu ( well dressed and be-jewelled handsome personality ).At the same Lord Venkateswara appears as a child Srikrishna before his countless devotees on a pallaki ( palanquin ) made of Ivory and Rose wood presented to the Temple by the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore .
The devout say that by appearing as Mohini during the Srivari Brahmotsavam the Lord had sent a message that the entire universe was a creation of his Maya and those who do not worship him were also hypnotized under the spell of his Mohini avatar to become his followers .
The Garuda Vahanam on the fifth day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam is considered the most significant of all events in the festival .Garuda or the Eagle is the main and daily vehicle of Lord Vishnu . Besides being the daily transport , Garuda also said to sit atop the Dwajam on the day of Dwajarohanam ( inauguration of Brahmotsavam ) and heralded the event and invited all the Devatas for the event on earth .
25th sept 2009-5th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - Procession of GARUDA VAHANAM
On the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam , the presiding deity of Tirumala gives his darshan to his devout followers on the Hanuman Vahanam.Hanuman is considered one of the top devotees of Lord Vishnu in one of his avatars as Lord Rama . He is also hailed as a exponent of all four vedas, Nava vyakarana pundit and destroyer of Lanka.
Hanuman is considered as an embodiment of Wisdom, Muscle power,Victory, Braveness, health, over active, fearless and common sense . One of the hillocks on the Tirumala hill range is also named as Anjanadri . Known as a vara putra of Anjana born out of power of ‘tapas’, Hanuman.Hanuman is also described as Bhavishyat Brahma for his blessings and acts denote a special and spiritual path for everyone to abide to lead a peaceful and prosperous livelihood
The sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala heralds a distinct and unique celebration popularly known Swarna Rathotsavam (the festival of the Golden chariot).Legends say that the golden chariot is considered to be faourite vehicle of Lord Venkateswara. Malayalappa gives darshan to his scores of devotees in grand style as his vehicle is preceeded by Shunya ratham of Brahma and other chariots dragged by Elephant , Ashwa and Vrushaba .
As part of established tradition, the barbers of Kalyana katta-tonsuring centre of Tirumala where thousands offer their hair to the deity to redeem their vows – offer a golden umbrella to the deity of Lord Venkateswara .
Mythology says that the golden chariot of Lord Venkateswara is driven by four horses names as Sugriva, Shaibya, Meghapuspha and Valahaka with Daraka as his sarathi .
The darshan of Lord Venkateswara on his golden chariot is an memorable experience to all devout Hindus. Many pious Hindus consider it an once in a life time experience to witness the golden chariot festival as part of Brahmotsavam of Lord Venkateswara. It is comparable only to the colorful and picturesque Ratha yatra of Lord Krishna in Dwaraka .
Tirumala, Sep 26 20096th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - GAJA VAHANAM
In the evening of the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam at tirumala, Lord Venkateswara enthralls the devotees on the Gaja Vahanam. Elephant as been a vehicle of the Tirumala deity from time immemorial .Elephant as a vehicle is a symbol of wealth of not only the rich but also of the deities of prominent temples in the country .The wealth of Lord Venkateswara Tirumala is wellknown as he is said to be the Kanchana brahma , the one who heard the tinkling of coins trickling into his Hundi every day in thousands and lakhs .
Gaja is representing Iravata- he four ivory teethed elephant which was one of the products of the Mandira parvatam mathanam by Adishesha
The procession of Lord Venkateswara well decorated with jewellery of pearls, diamonds and other precious stones atop the Elephant chariot is a celestial sight for all of his devotees though the presence of the elephant corps of the Temple behind the chariots on all days of the Brahmotsavam is well known .The mythological lore of Gajendra Moksha of how Lord Vishnu descended to rescue the Gajendra whose feet was caught by the crocodiles. Thus Gajendra concept occupies a dominant position in the realm of ones surrendering to Lord Venkateswara and seeking his blessing as part of repentance.
As contemporary Vedic exponent Geetacharya says “Sava Dharmana Parityajya Ma mekam Sharanam Vraja” , is the message of repentance for devotees to surrender themselves in service of Lord Venkateswara .
The procession of Lord Venkateswara on the seventh day of Srivari Brahmotsavam is atop the Surya prabha vahanam. The Tirumala diety rides atop a vehicle adorned by Surya , the sun god , who was the key architect of lie of both humans, animals and plants .Legends and mythological scripts identify Surya as the element that brought activity among all living things .All devout hindus offer prayers to Sunday god every morning and the Gayatri Mantram triggers a divine energy among all living beings.Surya, the sun god was always rode in a chariot driven by seven horses .He spread light and health in the world and also threw away darkness which symbolized poverty, illiteracy and ignorance.
On the seventh day evening of the Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala the presiding deity Lord Venkateswara rides atop a Chandra Prabha Vahanam to the delight of thousands of who devotees who gather around the four mada streets to witness the divine event .In the morning Lord Venkateswara was taken around in a Surya Prabha Vahanam and in the evening he is placed atop the Chandra Prabha vahanam.
While Surya stands for energy in its basic form and enlivens the living things in the world ,Chandra stands for promoting medicinal values among living beings including plants .
As per the scripts in the Purushottam Prapti Yagam Chandra is described as a Lord Vishnu becomes an invisible architect creating of medicine for the well being of the society . The Saint exponent Geeta Charya also refers to “Nakshatrana Aham Shashi” ( I am a spot on he moon) indicating the presence of moon as an integral part of the celestial system .
The procession of Lord Venkateswara on the Chandra Prabha Chariot is a delightful sight for all the devouts and pious people who throng Tirumala for the Brahmotsavam festival .
“ The Chandra Prabha Vahanam is an indication of the significance and concern attached in those days for traditional school of herbal and ayurvedic medicine “, says Dr. A.V.Ramana Dikshitulu, chief priest of Tirumala temple.
The florists from Coimbatore who are specially brought for making garlands for all the festivals of Brahmotsavam make a special 18 feet garland and a arch made of White jasmine colours as per the agama shastras and enriched the divine energy of the idols on display .
Tirumala, Sep 27 20097th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - CHANDRA PRABHA VAHANAM
On the penultimate day of Srivari Brahmotsavam , on the eigth day, the Malayalappaswami is seated on a high pedestal throne and taken ina procession around the four mada streets around Tirumala for the benefit of devotees who throng the temple town for a glimpse of Lord Venkateswara in various vahanams and in forms .
Tirumala, Sep 28 20098th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - RATHOTSAVAM
Tirumala, Sep 29 20099th Day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam - CHAKRASNANAM
The Srivari Brahmotsavam comes to a conclusion on the Ninth day with the Chakrasnanam event at the Swami Puskarini near the Tirumala Temple.
The chakrasnanm significies the close of the nine day celebrations and the festivities. The deity is taken in a Pallaki utsavam in the early hours on the four mada streets before preparations are made for the Chakrasnanam. The Utsava deities and the Sri Chakrathalwar are offered Panchamrutha snapana Thirumanjanam at the Sri Varahaswamy temple .
"Not less than seven magnificent crowns make up for the jewellery kitty of Lord Venkateswara, including 11 tonnes of gold, ornaments and other precious jewels. But, what is bothering the priests and Vedic pundits is the overweight of the offerings, particularly the crowns.A temple priest said the 8-ft Moola Viraat (the principal idol of the Lord) is adorned by not less than 60-70 kg of gold ornaments on any given day."
Mr.Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy, Member Of Parliament has donated Rs 3.70 crore worth golden Peethamburam (golden vesture) to the Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala on Thursday evening. This Golden Peethamburam (a gold cover to place over the bottom of the deity from the waist) Mr.Reddy has handed over the golden vesture, weighing 21 kgs to the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams(TTD) Executive officer IYR Krishna Rao inside the temple.
Sri Pratap.C. Reddy of Apollo Hospital, Chennai has donated Rs. 80 lakhs worth Golden KATI, VAIKUNTA HASTHAMS weighing approx 5.6kgs to the Lord of Seven Hills. He has handed the gift to the TTD Spl Officer Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy inside Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on Thursday night. [nov 2008]
Sri Pratap Reddy of Penna Cement, Hyderabad is seen donating Rs. 5 crores worth Diamond studded Golden KATI, VAIKUNTA HASTHAMS to the Lord of Seven Hills. TTD Chairman Sri B.Karunakara Reddy is also seen.
Sri Venkateshwara or Balaji, is a form of the Lord Vishnu only. Sri Krishna is also an Avatar of Lord Vishnu. So Sri Krishna, Lord Vishnu or Sri Venkateshwara or Balaji are one & the same God. As per the Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu, out of love towards his devotees, incarnated as Sri Venkateshwara and appeared for the salvation and upliftment of humanity in this Kali Yuga (dark age) and is considered the supreme form of Vishnu in this age. Meaning of Lord Venkateshwara is the one Supreme Lord who destroys sins.
Lord Venkateshwara is famous for being the most-visited shrine in the world and its prime deity for being the richest God in the world. This temple is in the town of Chittor District of Andhra Pradesh in India & is located in the foot hills of Tirumala. It is around 140 km from Chennai and 740 km from Hyderabad city in India.
In the temple the black idol of Lord Balaji is covered in gold, jewellery and precious ornaments and its height is 2 meters.The sacred shrine is visited by millions of devotees from far and wide and has been worshipped consistently since the past thirteen years. Every year more than 12 million people visit this temple from within India and the world. Every year the temple receives around Indian Rs 10 Billion ( More than 200 Million US$) in offerings from the devotees
Divya Mangala Swarupam
The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri Hills on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini & because of this reason only Lord Balaji has been named Venkateswara. The Greatness & opulence of Lord Balaji, the Preserver of the Whole Universe, is reflected in his richly ornamented life-size idol in the Tirumala Tirupati temple.
Lord During Bramhostavam
Malayappaswami is the utsava murthi of Lord Sri Venkateswara.His ubhaya nacchiyars (twoconsorts) are Sri Devi and Bhu Devi
Tirumala Rama idol is one of the idols in the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh. While the temple is dedicated to worship of lord Vishnu as Venkateswara, it contains the idols of some of Vishnu's other avatars - Rama and Krishna. The idol is usually accompanied by his consort Sita and his brother Lakshman
Idols of Lord Rama (center) with his wife Sita (left) and brother Lakshmana (right) in the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple as seen during Vasanthotsavam festival
Hanuman idol in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple as seen during Vasanthotsavam festival. The idol of Hanuman is usually kept sideways on to the right side of Lord Rama. The idol stands on a pedestral and has Rama's favorite disciple in a wide eyed expression indicating his ever-present enthusiasm to serve his Lord. In addition, the right hand is bent at the elbow and touches the mouth in a posture than conveys Hanuman's mark of respect for Rama. The left hand is in the Katyavalambita pose (left palm closed and resting on the waist and the outer side of the palm is seen to the onlookers)
Lord Krishna with Rukmini during the Vasanthotsavam festival in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.My heartfelt pranams to all the Gods and Godessess in the Venakateshwara temple in Tirumala.
Below are the links for some never before seen videos of Sri Venkateshwara temple of Tirumala
Rare video footage recorded by the Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam 50 years ago as a promotional video for the Tirupati Balaji temple. You can see the abhishekam of the moola vigraha without any ornamentation, followed by the deity in full gold and diamond dress. This is the only authentic video of Tirupati Balaji ever recorded.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDKRHerBDhk&feature=player_embedded
Real video of venkateshwara swamy at tirupati. This Video was Recorded in 1950's in the temple of Tirumala Tirupati.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybLBma5KwEo
Lord Venkateshwara video -1962
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3A-W78xQKc
Tirumala 60 years before
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEGtfHNqm-8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDKRHerBDhk&feature=player_embedded
Real video of venkateshwara swamy at tirupati. This Video was Recorded in 1950's in the temple of Tirumala Tirupati.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybLBma5KwEo
Lord Venkateshwara video -1962
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3A-W78xQKc
Tirumala 60 years before
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEGtfHNqm-8
Message from Shri Shirdi Sai baba's teachings for 27th OctoberEven if Heavens fall downnever lose Faith in Baba People with undeviating devotion will never deflect their minds from the thought of God and will never forget Him even when they face troubled times or losses. Those who seek God for mere fulfillment of physical desires and wealth will lose confidence the moment the tide turns against them. As long as we have plenty of money, people flock us and pose as intimate well-wishers. In trying times, no one would come to our rescue. In such bad times, even our health might get deteriorated as if the God is testing us. Unmindful of these set-backs, if one prays with firm faith to Baba, the troubles will melt away, much like the mist melting away in the rays of the rising Sun. When difficulties engulf you, you should not feel frightened and dejected. Fill your heart with faith in God and pray to Him. At that hour, Baba showers His Grace on you like the beams of light to dispel darkness. Here, your duty is to wait patiently. Let us not lose hope or get disheartened that Baba did not help us at the hour of crisis. Let us sincerely believe that Baba will remove all the troubles which are a result of our past deeds and the All-Merciful Baba paves a golden path for our bright future. This strong faith alone drives away all our fears. Therefore, never lose faith in Baba even if the Heavens fall on you.
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