Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as Sri Venkateswara Temple, is one of the most prominent and sacred Hindu temples in India. Situated on Venkata Hill in the town of Tirumala, near Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is revered by millions of devotees worldwide and is known for its divine significance, architectural grandeur, and spiritual wealth.
Historical Significance
The Tirupati Balaji Temple is believed to have been over 2,000 years old, though it was rebuilt and renovated many times by various dynasties. The history of the temple dates back to ancient times, and the deity of Lord Venkateswara is said to have appeared on the hill in response to a vow made by the divine couple, Vishnu and Lakshmi. According to legend, Lord Venkateswara is said to have descended to earth to fulfill the wishes of his devotees, making him particularly significant in the Kaliyuga.
Legend and Mythology
This legend about Lord Venkateswara is greatly attached with the curse by Sage Bhrigu. It is said that the promise that Lord Vishnu in the form of Venkateswara gave his people to stay on Venkata Hill for the betterment of his devotees converted the hill into an abode of the God. Tirupati is one of the 108 Divya Desams (abodes of Lord Vishnu). It is a prominent destination for Vaishnavites.
Many more stories revolve around the temple, including the one where the deity (Lord Venkateswara) is said to have lost his wealth due to a debt incurred to Kubera, the god of wealth, which is why devotees offer donations at the temple.
Architectural Grandeur
The Tirupati Balaji Temple is an architectural marvel in itself. It is a classic example of the Dravidian style of architecture. The main temple structure is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. His idol is placed within the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha). The idol is composed of black stone and covered with a golden crown and a variety of jewels.
The temple complex boasts of the iconic Rajagopuram (main tower), which rises with exquisite carvings of various Hindu gods and goddesses and emblems. The Vimanam (dome) above the sanctum is plated with gold, giving an impression of divine treasure of the Lord. This sprawling temple complex consists of mandapams (pillared halls), tanks, and other smaller shrines in the name of numerous deities and goddesses.
Key Features and Rituals
- The Main Deity: The idol of Lord Venkateswara is a life-like figure, with a serene and divine appearance. The idol is adorned daily with different ornaments, including a golden crown, which is considered extremely sacred. The deity’s face is not fully visible as it is partially covered by a veil, which adds to the mystery and reverence surrounding it.
- The Hundi (Donation Box): The temple is famous for its Hundi (offering box), where devotees donate money, jewelry, and other valuable items. It is estimated that the temple receives over ₹2,000 crores annually in donations, making it one of the wealthiest temples in the world. The offerings are used to maintain the temple, run various charitable activities, and fund the temple’s operations.
- Tonsuring as a Ritual: Devotees, who visit the temple, perform tonsuring (shaving of the head) as a form of offering to Lord Venkateswara. This is considered to be an expression of humility and surrender to God, and the shaved hair is donated to the temple, which is later sold to fund temple activities.
- Daily Sevas and Rituals: The temple follows a very rigid schedule of rituals. Starting with the Suprabhatam, a morning prayer to wake the deity, it includes Abhishekam (holy bath), Archana (chanting of hymns), and Arti (offering of light). Thomala Seva, Kaisika Ekadasi, Vasantotsavam, and Brahmotsavam are some of the major rituals and events celebrated in the temple.
- Darshan and Pilgrimage: Darshan of Lord Venkateswara is a spiritual highlight for millions of devotees. The temple manages heavy pilgrim traffic, with darshan taking several hours, especially during festivals. Devotees can avail different types of darshan, including the Sarva Darshan (general darshan), Special Entry Darshan (VIP darshan), and Divya Darshan (for those walking to the temple). The management of crowd is handled by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The temple is rich in organizing festivals and has one prominent festival every year, and this is known as Brahmotsavam. It lasts for nine days and has grand processions, rituals, and cultural performances as Lord Venkateswara performs the divine marriage with his consort Alamelu Mangamma. Some of the other main festivals are Vaisakha (Chitra) Brahmotsavam, Ugadi, Vaikunta Ekadasi, Sankranti, Deepavali, and Sri Rama Navami.
The Importance of Donations
Donations are essential to the functioning of the temple and help with a myriad of social welfare programs. The donations by the devotees are often put to use in the following ways:
Running free meals (Annadanam) for millions of pilgrims.
Medical services through hospitals run by TTD.
Educational programs to help underprivileged students.
Religious research and promoting spiritual teachings.
The devotees also give valuable metals, such as gold and silver, which are molten and used to ornament the deity or kept in the temple treasury.
Spiritual Benefits and Boon
The Tirupati visit and worship to Lord Venkateswara is said to confer the following benefits:
Relief from financial troubles: This god is said to grant the wishes of the devotees, especially those connected with wealth and prosperity.
- Moksha: This is seen as a place where there is liberation and spiritual salvation for those who worship sincerely at Lord Venkateswara.
- Health and well-being: Many people pray for the health and well-being of their family members, under the divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
Accommodation and Facilities
Tirumala is adequately provided with accommodations for the pilgrims. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) operates various guesthouses and other facilities to accommodate the pilgrims at reasonable costs. In addition, there are private hotels and lodges in and around Tirupati town.
The TTD Guesthouses are Srinivasam, Vishnu Nivasam, and Alipiri. They are basic but comfortable places to stay. There are many facilities, including medical facilities, transportation, and food services. The temple offers free meals (Annadanam) to all visitors, so no one has to go hungry.
Accessibility
Tirupati is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The Tirupati Airport caters to domestic as well as international flights. Tirupati Railway Station is the nearest railhead with excellent connectivity to other major cities of India. Bus services are available from various parts of Andhra Pradesh and other neighboring states.
For the visitors, good road networks connect the hill top to Tirumala, where pilgrims either have an option of walking or getting onto their vehicles. There exists the primary entry for Alipiri for devotees wanting to trek into Tirumala. There also exist battery-operated vehicles especially to take elderly devotees into the hills End
The Tirupati Balaji Temple symbolizes faith, devotion, and divine blessings. It attracts millions of pilgrims every year who catch a glimpse of the transcendence of the spiritual world and divine grace. This ancient temple is rich in history and magnificent architecture as well as cultural significance, thus one of the most respected pilgrimage centers in the world. An experience of Lord Venkateswara and involvement in rituals are said to be a journey of spiritual growth and purification.
General Information
- Q: Where is Tirupati Balaji Temple located?
A: It is located in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, India. - Q: Who is the presiding deity of Tirupati Balaji Temple?
A: Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. - Q: What is the significance of the temple?
A: It is one of the richest and most visited pilgrimage sites in the world, symbolizing devotion to Lord Vishnu. - Q: What is the alternate name for Tirupati Balaji Temple?
A: It is also known as the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. - Q: What is the height of the main deity’s idol?
A: The idol is about 8 feet tall.
Historical Aspects
- Q: When was the Tirupati Balaji Temple constructed?
A: The exact date is unclear, but the temple has been mentioned in ancient texts dating back to 300 CE. - Q: Who constructed the Tirupati Temple?
A: The temple was patronized and expanded by various dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara rulers. - Q: Why is the temple considered so sacred?
A: It is believed to be the earthly abode of Lord Vishnu during the Kali Yuga. - Q: What is the meaning of “Balaji”?
A: “Balaji” is a term of reverence for Lord Venkateswara, symbolizing strength and protection. - Q: Which ancient scripture mentions Tirupati?
A: The Skanda Purana and the Varaha Purana.
Darshan and Rituals
- Q: What is “Sarva Darshan”?
A: Sarva Darshan refers to the free darshan available to all devotees. - Q: What is “Seva”?
A: Seva refers to special worship services performed in the temple. - Q: What is the “Suprabhatam Seva”?
A: It is the ritual performed early in the morning to wake up the deity. - Q: What is the dress code for darshan?
A: Men must wear dhoti and angavastram, while women must wear sarees or salwar suits. - Q: How long does it usually take for darshan?
A: It can range from 2-3 hours to more than 12 hours, depending on the crowd.
Tirumala Hills
- Q: How many hills make up Tirumala?
A: Tirumala consists of seven hills, representing the seven heads of Adisesha. - Q: What is the total altitude of Tirumala Hills?
A: The hills rise to a height of about 853 meters (2,799 feet). - Q: What is the significance of the seven hills?
A: The seven hills represent the seven hoods of Adisesha, Lord Vishnu’s divine serpent. - Q: What is the name of the main hill?
A: Venkatadri, where the temple is situated. - Q: Are there trekking options for pilgrims?
A: Yes, there are two pedestrian paths—Alipiri and Srivari Mettu.
Laddu Prasadam
- Q: What is the most famous prasadam of Tirupati?
A: Tirupati Laddu. - Q: Is the Tirupati Laddu protected under law?
A: Yes, it has a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. - Q: What are the ingredients of Tirupati Laddu?
A: It is made with gram flour, sugar, cashews, raisins, ghee, and cardamom. - Q: How many laddus are prepared daily?
A: Approximately 300,000 laddus are prepared daily. - Q: Can devotees purchase additional laddus?
A: Yes, devotees can buy extra laddus at a nominal price.
Festivals
- Q: What is the most famous festival celebrated in Tirupati?
A: Brahmotsavam. - Q: When is Brahmotsavam held?
A: It is celebrated annually in September or October. - Q: What is the significance of Brahmotsavam?
A: It commemorates the divine rituals performed by Lord Brahma. - Q: How long does the Brahmotsavam festival last?
A: It is a nine-day festival. - Q: What other festivals are celebrated in Tirupati?
A: Vaikunta Ekadasi, Ratha Saptami, and Ugadi.
Devotee FAQs
- Q: How can one book darshan tickets?
A: Through the official TTD website or mobile app. - Q: Is accommodation available in Tirumala?
A: Yes, TTD provides various types of accommodations for devotees. - Q: Are there special queues for senior citizens?
A: Yes, special darshan facilities are available for senior citizens, disabled individuals, and infants. - Q: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A: No, photography is strictly prohibited within the temple premises. - Q: Can non-Hindus visit Tirupati Temple?
A: Yes, but they are required to sign a declaration of faith.
Spiritual Beliefs and Legends
- Q: How does one explain the presence of tilak on Lord Balaji’s idol?
A: The tilak explains the protection and goodwill that Lord Vishnu endows. - Q: What is the backgrounder about marriage that Lord Balaji undertakes? A: Legend has it that Lord Venkateswara married Padmavathi, who was the princess and daughter of King Akasha Raja.
- Q: What is the explanation given behind Lord Balaji’s dark tanning?
It is said that the black colour symbolizes the all-absorbing cosmic energy of Lord Vishnu.
- Q: What is the history of the seven hills of Tirumala? A: It is said that the seven hills symbolize the seven heads of Adisesha, the serpent on whom Lord Vishnu rests.
- **Q: Why is the temple termed as “Kaliyuga Vaikuntha”?
A: Because it is considered the abode of Lord Vishnu in the present age (Kaliyuga).
Temple Architecture
- Q: What style of architecture is the temple built in?
A: It is built in the Dravidian architectural style. - Q: How many gopurams (towers) does the temple have? A: The temple has three gopurams, including the main entrance tower.
- Q: What is the name of that golden tower over the sanctum sanctorum?
A: That golden tower was called “Ananda Nilayam.”
- Q: What all materials have been used while constructing the temple?
A: This temple majorly constructed out of stones, but with gold covering on parts, like for the roof of the sanctum. - Q: What are the inscriptions on the temple walls?
A: Ancient scripts, inscriptions, and carvings of the temple’s history and its devotion.
Temple Management and Services
- Q: Who takes care of the Tirupati Balaji Temple?
A: The temple is maintained by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). - Q: What does TTD stand for?
A: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, which means it is an autonomous body responsible for the administration of the temple. - Q: Does the temple offer free food to the devotees? A: Yes, the temple provides free meals under the “Annadanam Scheme.
- Q: Is TTD involved in any charitable activities? A: Yes, TTD is involved in several social, educational, and health activities.
- Q: How is the temple financed?
A: Through donations, offerings from devotees, and revenue from the sale of prasadam.
Donation and Hundi
- Q: What is the Hundi at Tirupati Temple? .
A: It is the donation box where devotees offer cash, gold, and valuables. - **Q: What is the largest single donation received at Tirupati?
A: At one time, a devotee donated 100 kg of gold to the temple.
- Q: Are there options for online donation? A: Yes, TTD can be donated through its own portal.
- Q: Are donations to the Tirupati Temple free from tax? A: Yes, since TTD comes under tax-exempt sections of the Indian laws.
- Q: How much does the temple make in a year?
A: More than ₹3,000 crores of income per annum in the temple.
Tradition and Culture
- Q: Why does one shave his head on visiting Tirupati? ?
A: To signify humility, to surrender oneself before the Lord. - Q: What is “Thulabharam”?
A: An important ritual wherein devotees give in gifts weighing equal to their bodily weight before the deity. - Q: Why the bells are not rung inside the sanctum sanctorum?
A : The deity is considered in a meditative stage; therefore, silence prevails.
- Q: Why is Lord Balaji adorned with real hair?
A : It is considered that Lord Venkateswara’s hair was donated to him by the devotee Neela Devi.
- Q: Why are flowers offered at the temple not distributed as prasadam?
A: They are believed to retain the spiritual energy of the deity and are disposed of in a sacred manner.
Spiritual Offerings
- Q: What are the common offerings made by devotees? A: Cash, gold, jewelry, coconuts, and silk clothes.
- Q: What does the “Naivedyam” signify? A: It is that food which is offered unto the deity before being issued as prasadam
- Q: Name the different types of “Sevas” that can be performed in the temple? A: Suprabhatam, Thomala Seva, Archana, Kalyanotsavam, among others
- Q: Can devotees take an active part in the rituals to be performed in the temple?
A: Devotees can book tickets for participating in certain services.
- Q: Is a daylong fast a necessity before one visits the Tirupati Temple?
A: A fast is not a necessity, but a day-long fast is an undertaking many of the devotees do before visiting the temple.
Pilgrimage and Accessibility
- **Q: What are the main ways to get to Tirumala?
*A:* Road, rail, and air. Tirupati is the nearest city with all facilities. - Q: Which is the nearest airport to Tirupati? A: Tirupati International Airport, about 40 km from Tirumala.
- Q: How many steps are there in the Alipiri path? A: The Alipiri path has 3,550 steps.
- Q: Is there a direct bus from Tirumala? A: Yes, buses operated by APSRTC and TTD connect Tirupati to Tirumala.
- Q: Are special transport services available for disabled or old pilgrims?
A: Yes, battery-operated vehicles are available for senior citizens and disabled pilgrims.
Unique Features
- Q: Why does Lord Balaji wear a Namam (vertical white mark) on his forehead?
A: It represents the goddess Lakshmi and Bhoodevi boons. - Q: Why is it claimed that the idol has glow of divinity? A: According to legend, it was self-manifested one and radiates divine force.
- Q: What is “Dwajasthambam”? A: The golden flagstaff put in the temple ground where flag hoisting is performed.
- Q: What is the significance of the “Bangaru Vakili”? A: It is the golden threshold leading to the sanctum sanctorum.
- Q: Why is the deity adorned with diamonds and gold? A: To symbolize the supreme opulence and blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Temple Timings and Accessibility
- Q: What are the daily opening hours of the temple?
A: The temple typically opens at 2:30 AM and closes at 1:30 AM, with breaks for rituals. - Q: Can darshan tickets be booked on the same day? A: Limited same-day darshan tickets are available, but online booking is recommended.
- Q: Is there night darshan? A: Night darshan is not available because the temple is closed at night for rituals and cleaning.
- Q: Are there various types of darshan tickets? A: Options include free darshan, special entry darshan, and seva tickets.
- Q: Is Tirupati Temple wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the temple offers facilities like ramps and wheelchairs for differently-abled devotees.
Unique Spiritual Experiences
- Q: What is the importance of the “Srivari Hundi”?
A: It symbolizes surrendering to God, where devotees give money and other valuable things. - Q: What is the “Garuda Seva”?
A: It is a sacred ritual where the deity is taken out on a Garuda Vahana (eagle vehicle).
- Q: Why is Suprabhatam Seva so popular? A: This is the first rite of the day, where the deity is awakened with mantras.
- **Q: What is the ritual of “Pushpa Yagam”?
It is an offering ceremony by means of flowers to thank the lord, as he protected the devotees.
- Q: For what purpose is “Kalyanotsavam” performed?
A: It represents a heavenly marriage between Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati.
Laddu and Prasadam Information
- Q: How much does a Tirupati Laddu cost?
A: The cost for a normal laddu is ₹50. - Q: Are Tirupati Laddus allowed in the airplane?
A: Yes, they are allowed since these are offered to the lord. - Q: Is it available in different sizes?
A: Available in two sizes – small and normal. - Q: How many calories are in one Tirupati Laddu?
A: A standard one contains around 180 calories. - Q: Is the laddu preparation process open to visitors?
A: No, the preparation takes place in a restricted area called “Potu.”
Festivals and Celebrations
- Q: What is “Vaikunta Ekadasi”?
A: It is a sacred day when the Vaikunta Dwaram (heavenly gate) is opened for devotees. - **Q: What is “Ratha Saptami”?
A: It is a festival worshipping Lord Venkateswara as the Sun God, with processions all day.
- Q: What is the meaning of “Pavitrotsavam”? A: It is the purification ceremony to rectify mistakes in temple activities.
- Q: Are fireworks part of Brahmotsavam? A: Yes, fireworks are used during processions and festivals.
- Q: When is “Padmavati Kalyanam” performed?
A: This is an annual event, where Goddess Padmavati is married to Lord Venkateswara.
Pilgrim Services
- Q: Are free accommodations available for pilgrims?
A: The TTD offers free dormitories and other basic amenities for pilgrims. - **Q: Is food available 24/7 in Tirumala?
A: Some hours food is free in canteens and restaurants are also there
- Q: Private vehicles allowed on the hills? A: Yes. They are allowed, but certain zones for parking.
- Q: Lockers for pilgrims? A: Yes. Lockers available for personal belongings to store them.
- Q: What are the Medical facilities at Tirumala?
A: There is a well-equipped TTD-run hospital and ambulance services for emergencies.
Sacred Protocols
- Q: Can menstruating women visit Tirupati Temple?
A: Though there is no official restriction, some devotees do not like to visit during menstruation due to traditional beliefs. - Q: Is photography inside the temple allowed? A: No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited.
- Q: Is mobile allowed in the temple? A: No, mobile phones and electronic gadgets are not allowed in the temple.
- Q: Is non-veg allowed in Tirumala? A: No, non-veg food is strictly not allowed in Tirumala.
- **Q: Are there dress codes for entering the temple?
A: Yes, traditional dress is compulsory, such as dhoti and angavastram for men, and sarees or salwar suits for women.
Legends and Mysteries
- Q: Why is the idol’s back kept moist?
A: It is believed that the deity perspires and requires regular anointment. - Q: Why does the idol have a Sri Chakra on its right foot?
A: It depicts the Lord’s divinity and auspicious blessings.
- Q: The God’s eyes are not fully opened.
**A:** That is also, to prevent people from getting stunned by the blazing radiations from the deity's eyes.- **Q: Why has the oil-lamp placed before the Lord, never going off?
**A:** For, it stands for an infinite, presiding omnipotence of the Lord Sri Venkateswara.- Q: What is the importance of the “Sankha” and “Chakra” of the deity?
They symbolize divine strength, protection, and good fortune.
Trekking and Pilgrimage
- Q: What are the two trekking paths to Tirumala? They are Alipiri path (longer) and Srivari Mettu path (shorter).
- **Q: What time does it take to walk the Alipiri path?
A: It takes nearly 3-4 hours in the case of an average pilgrim.
- Q: Is free darshan arranged for trekkers? A: For the pilgrims who trekked to the hilltop, free darshan tokens are distributed.
- Q: Are rest places available along the trek routes? A: Yes. Resting places, drinking water stations and resting places along the trekking routes.
- Q: Can elderly people use trekking routes?
A: Yes, but it is advised to evaluate their health condition before trekking.
Temple Legends
- Q: What is the legend of Lord Balaji’s loan from Kubera?
A: It is believed that Lord Venkateswara borrowed money from Kubera for his marriage, and devotees’ offerings help repay the loan. - Q: Why is Goddess Lakshmi not kept in the main temple? A: It is considered that Goddess Lakshmi sits in the chest of the deity as his wife.
- Q: What is the story of Annamacharya and his devotion? A: Annamacharya was a saint-poet who composed thousands of devotional songs for Lord Balaji.
- Q: Who discovered the idol of Lord Venkateswara? A: The idol was found by a Chola king after divine revelation.
- Q: Why is the temple called “Bhooloka Vaikuntha”? A: It is said to be the earthly abode of Lord Vishnu.
Spiritual Practices and Rituals
- Q: What is “Archana” seva in Tirupati Temple?
A: It is a special pooja where the deity is worshipped with chants of 1,008 names of Lord Vishnu. - Q: What is “Thomala Seva”?
A: It is the ritual of adorning the deity with garlands made from fresh flowers. - Q: Why is the temple closed at certain hours of the day?
A: The temple is closed for specific rituals like cleansing and special poojas. - Q: What is the meaning of “Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam”?
A: It is a ritual cleansing of the sanctum and temple premises, performed four times a year. - **Q: What is “Vasanthotsavam”?
What: It is a spring festival, worshipped with offerings of flowers to the deitty. - Q. Why does one offer coconut to Lord Balaji? A: The coconut represents Purity and surrender to god or surrender the ego.
- Q: What is “Unjal Seva”? A:** It is done through idols which is placed on an abaya – swing and deesamanadaram.
- Q: Is it possible for devotees to perform private rituals within the temple?
A: Devotees can book particular sevas but cannot conduct private rituals within the sanctum. - Q: What is the “Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva”?
A: It is a ritual wherein the deity is worshiped amidst 1,000 lit lamps. - Q: What is the importance of “Astadala Pada Padmaradhana”?
A: It is a special pooja performed with 1,008 gold coins offered to the deity.
Accommodation and Facilities
- Q: Which are the good TTD guesthouses for accommodation?
A: Guesthouses like Srinivasam, Vishnu Nivasam, and Alipiri are popular among devotees. - **Q: Can accommodations be booked online?
*A:* Booking the accommodation is possible using official TTD website only. - Q: Are private accommodations near available near Tirumala? A:Private hotels and lodges, however, are accessible on the outskirts of Tirupati.
- Q. Is there a darshans waiting hall in operation? A Yes, it is so at the temple, although arrangements for waiting hall have seating accommodation to serve food as well.
- Q: What facilities are available for senior citizens?
A: Special darshan, battery-operated vehicles, and assistance are provided for senior citizens.
Temple Offerings
- Q: What is “Kaanuka”?
A: It refers to the offerings made by devotees, such as cash, jewelry, or items. - Q: What is the most valuable offering ever made?
A devotee donated a diamond-studded golden crown worth crores once. - Q: What happens to the jewelry that devotees donate? 138. A: That is kept in safe custody and is decorated to the deity during poojas.
- Q: Does TTD accept grains and eatables? 139. A: Yes. Devotees can donate grains or other food materials for Annadhanam.
- Q: Are there some specific days for donating highly?
A: No, one can make donations on any day.
Significance from Culture and History
- Q: How many years old is the Balaji Temple in Tirupati?
A: It is over 1,000 years old with evidence of inscriptions existing in the 9th century. - Q: Which dynasties contributed to the development of the temple?
A: The Chola, Pallava, and Vijayanagara dynasties. - Q: What is the historical importance of the temple?
A: It is a place of worship for centuries and an important cultural center that has attracted millions of pilgrims. - Q: Are there ancient inscriptions in the temple?
A: More than 600 inscriptions in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada exist on the temple walls. - Q: How is the Vijayanagara Empire related to the temple?**
A: The kings of the Vijayanagara Empire were great devotees and contributed much to the temple’s wealth and architecture.
Unique Features
- Q: Why is the god decorated with the Sudarshan Chakra?
A: It symbolizes divine protection and the Lord’s great power. - Q: Why is the idol of Lord Balaji so realistic?
A: It is believed to be a Swayambhu idol with divine energy. - Q: What is the meaning of the ornaments on the deity?
A: The ornaments represent the wealth and bounty of the Lord. - Q: Why are camphor and turmeric in profusion in the rituals?
A: They represent purity, auspiciousness, and devotion. - Q: Why is the sanctum sanctorum always dark?
A: It enhances the mysticism and divine presence of the deity.
Pilgrim Guidelines
- Q: Can children participate in rituals?
A: Yes, children are welcome to participate with their parents. - Q: Are pets allowed in Tirumala?
A: No, pets are not allowed in the temple or its premises. - Q: Is smoking or drinking permitted in Tirumala?
A: No, both smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited. - Q: Are electronic gadgets permitted in darshan queues?
A: No, electronic gadgets such as mobile phones and cameras are not allowed. - Q: Can foreigners enter the temple?
A: Yes, but they are expected to follow the dress code and rules of the temple.
Festivals and Special Occasions
- **Q: How is Brahmotsavam conducted?
*A:* It is a nine-day festival with grand processions, special rituals, and cultural events. - Q: What is the “Float Festival”?
A: It is a festival where the deity’s idol is placed on a boat and taken around the temple tank. - **Q: What is the significance of the “Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam” during festivals?
It cleanses the temple premises and readies it for the festivals. - Q: Are there fireworks during festivals?
A: Yes, fireworks are part of celebrations like Brahmotsavam. - Q: What is “Hanumantha Vahana Seva”?
A: It is a procession where the deity is paraded on Hanuman’s vehicle.
Darshan and Devotee Experience
- Q: How long does one need to wait in darshan?
A: It is from 2 hours to 12 hours depending on the crowd. - Q: Are there special queues for families?
A: No, but there are special queues for senior citizens and differently-abled people. - **Q: What is VIP darshan facility?
A: It facilitates faster entry with expensive tickets. - Q: Which time of the day and what day of the week would help us have a serene darshan in Tirupati?
A: Weekdays early in the morning during festival seasons avoid - Q: Is the Lord’s feet visible in the darshan?
A: No, it is covered with a kavacham (golden shield)
Mysteries and Beliefs
- Q: Why does the idol of Lord Balaji produce a mysterious humming sound?
A: It is said that it is the continuous chanted “Om” from the sanctum. - Q: Why do devotees feel peaceful inside the temple?
A: The divine energy and vibrations calm the mind. - Q: Why is the goddess beautiful? A: The idol is bathed in natural oils, flowers, and ornaments every day.
- Q: Why is the idol always fresh? A: It is believed that the divine force maintains the freshness of the idol.
- Q: Is there a hidden treasure in the temple?
A: It is said that huge treasures lie hidden beneath the temple.
Facts About Tirupati
- Q: How many devotees does the temple attract daily?
A: About 50,000 to 100,000 devotees visit daily. - Q: What is the highest number of devotees visiting the temple in a day?
A: More than 1 lakh devotees during Brahmotsavam. - Q: How much gold is kept in the temple?
A: There are more than 10 tonnes of gold in the temple’s treasury.
Here’s the continuation to reach the full 200 questions and answers about Tirupati Balaji Temple:
Facts About Tirupati (Continued)
- Q: How much gold is stored in the temple?
A: The temple holds over 10 tonnes of gold in reserves. - Q: What is the source of the wealth in the temple?
A. Money collected is basically derived from the devotees as it includes cash, gold jewels and expensive ornaments presented for worships. - Q: How is the temple operated?
A. The management of this temple rests with the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). In fact, all its operating as well as charity work comes under its control. - **Q: What proportion of the temple’s income goes into charity?
A: About 50% is spent on various charitable causes, such as medical aid, education, and distribution of food. - Q: What does TTD do for social welfare?
A: TTD operates several educational institutions, hospitals, and social welfare schemes, including Annadanam, free meals to millions of pilgrims. - Q: Amount of money that is drawn in the Hundi every year?
A: Annual collection of the temple’s Hundi can go up to ₹2,000 crores or more. - Q: What are the proceedings of the Hundi Offerings?
A: The offerings are utilized for maintaining, developing, and carrying on charitable activities in the temples.
Special Events and Pilgrimage
- Q: Can pilgrims take part in such special events like processions?
A: Yes, devotees can participate in some of the processions, subject to the rules and regulations of the temple. - Q: Is there any restriction on visiting the temple during festivals?
A: In the case of peak festivals like Brahmotsavam, entry may be restricted and waiting times may be long. - **Q: What is the significance of the “Jeevatha” procession?
A: The “Jeevatha” procession includes the deity of Lord Balaji, who is taken on the streets, and the devotees seek prayers and blessings. - Q: Does the temple remain open during eclipses or astrological events?**
A: Yes, the temple is open, but special poojas may be conducted at these times. - Q: Are special seva tickets available online for booking?
A: Yes. Devotees can be booking tickets for special sevas and darshans through the official TTD website.
Temple Architecture and Maintenance
- Q: Was the architecture of the Tirupati Balaji Temple a design by some ancient architect?
A: The Temple was originally designed by some ancient builders under the patronage of various dynasties, with the present one influenced by the Vijayanagara rulers. - Q: How many towers (Shikharas) does the temple have?
A: The temple has three main towers, including the iconic Rajagopuram, which stands as the temple’s entrance. - Q: What is the unique feature of the temple’s architecture?
A: The temple blends Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles, with ornate carvings, pillars, and sculptures. - Q: How often is the temple cleaned and maintained?
A: The temple is cleaned with rituals every day, while there is a proper cleaning on festivals. - Q: What is so special about the temple’s golden roof?
A: The roof or “Ananda Nilayam” symbolises good fortune and divine fortune. - Q: What do priests in the temple do?
A: Daily rituals, prayers, and sevas to offer respect to Lord Venkateswara. Daily maintenance of the temple for the smooth run is carried out by priests. - Q: Does the temple offer spiritual preachings or talks?
A: The temple regularly has discourses or lectures on spirituality, along with educational talks to the devotees. - Q: What is significance of the “Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatam”?
A: The very early morning prayer which wakes up Lord Venkateswara and gives him ready for the rituals performed all through the day. - **Q: Why Lord Venkateswara is referred to as the “Kaliyuga Varada”?
He is believed to be the one who bestows blessings and salvation to devotees in the present age, Kaliyuga. - Q: What is the spiritual message of the Tirupati Balaji Temple? A: The temple teaches humility, devotion, and the importance of surrendering to God’s will for divine blessings and peace.
Tirupati Balaji and the Modern World
- Q: In what ways does the temple encourage eco-friendly practices?
A: It has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, such as waste management, solar power, and water conservation. - Q: Are there any plans to make the temple more accessible to non-Hindu pilgrims?
A: Yes, the temple is open to pilgrims of all faiths, and its services are extended to all those who seek blessings. - Q: What is the role of technology in the temple’s functioning?
A: Technology is used in online darshan booking, digital donations, and to streamline the pilgrim services. - **Q: Does the temple have an official app for devotees?
*A:* Yes, the TTD application gives information on darshan, sevas, accommodation, and temple services. - Q: How does the temple support global devotees?
A: The temple offers online services, virtual darshan, and accepts donations from devotees worldwide.
