SriRanganatha Srirangam and Lord Srinivasa Tirumala Interconnected

SriRanganatha Srirangam andLord Srinivasa Tirumala Interconnected

Sriranganatha of Srirangam and Sri Venkateswara of Tirumala are one and the same - Lord Maha Vishnu.

When muslim rulers invaded the Southern states, the Srirangam Temple was shut and the processional dieities and Valuable ornaments of the Lord had been shifted to Tirumala for Safe Custody. Thus Sriranganatha  happened to be in Tirumala Temple for a number of years. When the invasion threat abated, the dieties and ornaments were taken back to Srirangam. That is why the place SriRanganatha Occupied during his Sojourn in Tirumala is even today known as Ranga Mandapam.

SriValliPuttur Godadevi Kalyanotsavam

SriValliPuttur Godadevi Kalyanotsavam

Sri Venkateswara Swamy of Tirumala and Godadevi of Srivalliputtur have been linked up for Centuries. Godadevi is said to be an incarnation of Bhudevi, wife of Lord Maha Vishnu.

According to Historical Sources, Vishnu Chitta, a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, found a female baby in his (BASIL) 'Tulasi' garden. Overwhelmed with joy over what he regarded as a divine dispensation, he took the baby name, named her Godadevi and brought her up. The child's speaking faculty began with her lisping the word 'Ranganatha'. Intensely devoted to Sriranganatha of Srirangam, it Culminated to her marriage with the Lord.

The Lyrics she had sung extempore out of her devotion to Ranganatha are today Known as 'Tiruppavai'

Garuda Rock Hill and Venkateswara Swamy Hill Tirumala Tirupati

Venkateswara Swamy shape is clearly visible at this rock structure. One can see Lord Venkateswara Rock Structure formation on a rock just below the windmill. It is natural formation of Lord Venkateswara Swamy Shpe. Rock formation is such a way that it looks like the face of Sri Venkateswara Swamy.

Marriages Upanayanam Anna Prasana Naamakaranam at Purohit Sangam Tirumala

Marriages Upanayanam Anna Prasana Naamakaranam at Purohit Sangam Tirumala

Purohit sangam tirumala tirupati

Ear piercing at Purohit Sangam Tirumala Tirupati:

Ear piercing should be done before Sri Venkateswara Swamy Darshan at Ananda Nilayam. Ear piercing will also be done at Cottages like Rambageecha, Padmavathi Guest House with additional charges.

No advance reservation is required for ear piercing. Plan your event on a auspicious day and reach Purohit Sangam which is beside C.R.O Office Tirumala ( Opposite Tirumala Bus station).

Things to do in Tirupati Tirumala Temple Darshan

Things to do in Tirupati Tirumala:

1) Tirumala is not a picnic post, it is highly sacred pilgrim center.

2) It is duty of every devotee to protect the greenery and sanctity of Tirumala Tirupati.

3) Devotees should wear traditional clothes while entering in the Tirupati Tirumala Temple.

4) Deposit your offerings only in the SriVari Hundi

5) Do not approach Dalalis (brokers) for Darshan and accommodation, they will deceive you.

6) Divya Darshan Tokens should be worn by token holders only, Tickets are non transferable and cannot be exchanged.

7) Consumption of Liquor, Non-Veg food, Ghutka and smoking is strictly prohibited. 

8) Defecation, Urination, Spitting in the open areas are subjected to Fine.

What is the Divya Darshan Counter Timings at Alipiri Path

Tirumala Tirupati Divya Darshan Token counter Timings at Alipri Mettu : 24 hours, All days

Divya Darshan Token counter is avaiable at Gali Gopouram Entrance, Gali Gopuram is available at Step No. 2083.

Divya Darshan Tokens will be issued using Bio Metric system (by registering with your finger prints) so that tickets can't be transferable from person to person.

At Step No. 2850 there is checking and stamping for Divya Darshan Token, only the ticket is valid.

How to book Arjitha vasanthotsavam seva tickets online

Arjitha vasanthotsavam seva timings Tirumala

Arjitha vasanthotsavam seva timings Tirumala : 3:30 p.m

Arjitha vasanthotsavam seva timings Tirumala Details

Arjitha Vasanthotsavam is a hour-long seva, this seva is performed in the Vaibhava Mandapam. During Arjitha Vasanthotsavam seva, the Idols of the Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy and His Consorts Sri Devi and Bhu Devi are given Abhishekam or the Sacred bath with water, milk and honey.  A paste of turmeric and then sandalwood is finally applied. Purusha Suktham, Sri Suktham and Vedic hymns are chanted during the Seva.

What is the History of GandiKota Hills Kadapa

History of Gandikota Hills Kadapa

GandiKota fort is situated on the top of a hill, 1670 feet above the sea, overlooking the river.  GandiKota history dates back to Vijayanagara times, but the fort itself dates mainly from the period of the Qutub Shahis, who captured it in 1589. Inspite of claims by the Vijayanagara emperors, the forces of Qutub Shahis continued to occupy GandiKota, and were still in control of when Francois Taveriner, the famous French Traveller, halted there in 1652.

GandiKota was then captured by Arungazeb in 1687, and by beginning of 18th Century it came under control of Kadapa Nawabs. Haidar Ali improved and garrisoned the fort, later it came under the control of British in 1791.

Interesting Places at GandiKota Hills Gorge Kadapa

Madhavaraya Temple ,West of the settlement in GandiKota Fort, is more impressive. It is recognized by Its gopura, which has four storeyed, steeply pyramidal tower.

Jama Masjid Standing in a large quadrangle, that may have served as a caravanserai. The triple arched opening of its facade are overhung by sloping eaves; above rises a parapet with arched openings.

A large Granary with a vaulted roof stands to the North.

Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Beyond Granary, is entered through a collapsing gateway devoid of any tower, The Mandapa inside has finely finished animal piers.

Rayalcheruvu and Jail inside Fort.

History of Sri Kodanda Rama Temple Valmikipuram Vayalpadu Chittoor Andhra Pradesh

Legend of Sri Kodanda Rama Temple Valmikipuram Vayalpadu 

Kodanda Ramaylam was built by Lord Jambavantha in Treta Yuga as a mark of his respect towards Lord Sri Rama. Uniqueness of this temple is that here Lord Sri Rama will be seen in the coronation ceremony posture as presiding deity flanked by His beloved Goddess Sita Devi and also by his brothers  Laxmana, Bharatha, Shatrughna and  Lord Anjaneya.Here SriRama also called as ‘Pratapa Raama’ as he is holding sword.

There is also a hill here called 'Veeranna Konda' with the shrine of Veerabhadra. It is said that the sage Valmiki sat on this hill while writing The Ramayana.

Another uniqueness of this Temple Idol in this Temple is facing North and Locals says that it is the only Temple in Andhra Pradesh with North facing.

Tallapaka Ananmacharya penned as many as 21 ‘sankeertanas’ in praise of the Pattabhirama Swamy deity here.

Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple is holding 500 years of history, this temple well managed in Krishna Deva Raya’s period and Chola’s period. In 1997, TTD (Tiruma tirupati Devasthanams) adopted and from then temple has seen drastic growth.

History of vimana venkateswara swamy Tirumala Temple

vimana venkateswara swamy Tirumala

There is an Icon called 'vimana venkateswara swamy' in the second tier of the Vimana of the Ananda Nilayam. It is a small-scale replica of the Moola Vigraha carved on the northwest corner of the Vimana. Devotees who visit this Temple make it a point to worship this Idol with a belief that they would attain salvation. There is a silver 'Thiruchi' to the icon to distinguish it from the other Idols and there is also a name board.

According to one Story, when the outer Prakarams and the Sanctum were built, a worried Kubera from whom the Lord had taken a huge loan for His marriage, expressed his anxiety that the Lord might not repay his debt and might indeed Vanish from his sight!

The Lord assured Kubera that he would get His Prototype installed on the Vimana so that Kubera would know that the Lord was ever-present. Tradition also says that Vyasa Teertha, also known as Vyasa Raja, a great saint of the Dwaitha cult, ate only after worshiping this Vimana Venkateswara swamy and thereby obtained the Lord's grace.

History of Sri Varadarajaswami Temple Tirumala

Sri Varadarajaswami Temple in Tirupati

Varadarajaswami Temple in Tirupati Tirumala,

Temple is located on the eastern side of the Vimana Pradakshinam, to the left, is located the small shrine of Sri Varadarajaswami, It is about 6 mt long and 4.5 mt wide. Varadarajaswami Temple is about 2 mt distant from the inner Gopuram and 60 cm away from the east Prakaram wall. It is crowned with a small Vimana. The Idol faces west and is about 25 cm high and stands on a platform that is about 10 cm high. It has four arms.

The Upper right and Left arms hold the Shanka and Chakra respectively. The lower right hand is in Abhayahastha pose and the lower left is in the Katyavalambitha pose. Varadaraja or 'the king who bestows boons' is a form of Vishnu.

There is also an inscription on the temple wall from the 16th year of Ranganatha Yadavaraya's reign (1354 - 1355). This means that the temple dates from an older era.

It is said that this shrine was built to house the Utsavamurthy Idol of Kanchi Sri Varadaraja, during Malik Kahfur's invasion of the south. The outer walls are built in the architectural style of the later Chola Period.

History of Koluvu Srinivasa Idol Tirumala

Koluvu Srinivasa holds court, called the Darbar or Asthanam, every morning in the temple, in the Tirumamani Mandapama and the total amount offered in the Hundi the previous day is announced before the diety. 

Koluvu Srinivasa is like the Supervising guardian of the Temple

The Darbar is held after Tomala Seva. Koluvu Srinivasa Idol is seated in a silver chair under a gold umbrella and is adorned with a Simha Thoranam. The Panchangam for the day is also read out, followed by a report of the Hundi ( Kopparai) collections of the Previous day. The daily rations are given here.

Most probably, The Thiruvilan Koil Perumanadigal mentioned in the inscriptions; must have become the Bali Beram.

route map from tirupati to talakona waterfalls

Talakona waterfalls are situated in Sri Venkateswara National Park in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh state. With a height of 270 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. At a distance of 49 KM from Tirupathi, 220 KM from Chennai and 105 Kms from Chittore, Talakona Falls are situated at a distance of 23 KM from Bakarapeta which is the nearest town.

The waterfalls are placed amidst dense forest surrounded by natural beauty and greenery. It is believed that the water of Talakona Falls near Tirupati is enriched with herbs wit healing powers. Talakona was declared as Bio-Sphere Reserve in 1989-90 because of wide variety of plant species present in the region. Talakona means 'head hill' in Telugu. This place is believed to be the starting point of 'Seshachalam Hills' which are extended till Tirumala.

There is a temple near the falls called Lord Siddeswara Swamy Temple. This temple is believed to be built by a devotee named Appa Swamy in 1811 AD. This Temple Attracts large number of devotees during Mahashivaratri.

Talakona falls have to be reached by 2 Kms trek from Siddeswara Swamy Temple which is nearest motorable road to the falls. The duration of the trek is about 30 minutes (one way) through dense forest and slippery road.

November to January is the best season to visit. There are several private transport facilities to Talakona Falls near tirupati from Bakarapeta, Piler and Chittoor.

GurramKonda Fort History

GurramKonda Fort History

Gurramkonda is a Hill-Fort town whose historical name was Zafarabad. It hosted over forty mosques, all since destroyed. One Sufi saint named Hazrath Shah Kamal came from Kirman of Old Persia and settled here. He taught Islam to the locals, spreading it throughout the village and its surroundings.

It was a fort town for the Vijayanagara kingdom under King Sree Krishna Deva Raya. The name came because the rulers rode horses to reach their palace at the top of the steep hill. Konda means Hill and Gurram means Horse.

There is also a tomb for Tippu Sultan's maternal uncle Maqbeera, similar to most Islamic tombs built in India.

Local lore states that a large deposit of diamonds and precious rocks were spread by the king across the hill when the kingdom was attacked. Even now, locals believe treasure is hidden around the foot of the hill.

Gurramkonda Fort is a 500 year old architectural masterpiece.It is made by Mortar.

Mamandur Forest Near Tirupati

Mamandur Eco Forest is one of the best Tourism places nearby Tirupati, This Bio park is near to Tirupati Forest Village and is a interesting Trekking Hub. Mamandur Eco Forest boasts of unique fauna like slender loris the golden geko(areptile)which are found only in these hills.Forest guest house.The last sighting of the Asiatic Cheetah is also recorded from Mamandur Eco Forest. It is best picnic spot and interesting trekking tourism places nearby tirupati.

History suggests that the famous composer Annamacharya walked on this path for a darshan of Lord Balaji.The trek routes from Mamanduru will culminate at Tirumala,the abode of Lord Balaji.And also Kenneth Anderson is a big game hunter, who built a house in 1920 year and it is present

How to Reach Kailasa Konai Falls from Tirupati

Kailasakona falls is one of the popular Tourism places nearby Tirupati, It is a perennial waterfall with sacred Siva and Parvathi temple. This place is famous for its pleasant waterfall with crystal clear water enriched with mineral values. This place historical significance and there is saying that lord Siva came for Venkateswara swami marriage at Narayanavaram a temple near to Kailasakona falls.

Kailasakona falls can be reached easily and has good transportation facilities, vehicles can reach the foot of waterfalls. This place is 40 KM away from Tirupati, best season to visit this would be from November to January.

Driving Directions to SadasivaKona Puttur

Sadasiva Kona Puttur is one of the best Tourism places nearby Tirupati which is situated at a distance of 10 km from Majjiga Gunta on Puttur-Tirupati route. The place with lofty mountain peaks, thick forests and a picturesque waterfall is a unique one. Sadasiva is the presiding deity. A large number of devotees come here from different parts Of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka on auspicious days like Mahasivaratri, Vaikunta Ekadasi and on all Mondays in the month of Karthika.

The most convenient route is the bus route from the main road to Nagilern. From there, the devotees can reach Sadasiva Kona by walking a distance of 4 km. Though there are other routes too from Yerpedu near Sri Kalahasti, Papanaidupeta and Vadamalapeta, these are quiet tedious.

Apart from the serene natural atmosphere of the hill, it is also know for producing a variety of medicinal herbs. Hence, a bath in the water fall is believed to cure chronic diseases.

The temple dedicated to Lord Sadasiva, was constructed by the rulers of Karveti Nagar who worshiped Kamakshi Bameta Sadasiva during festivals. Ammavari Kona and Ayyavari Kona are located near the temple. The water from these valleys flow together at a place where Pushkarini is formed. A dip in this Pushkarini too is believed to cure a person from diseases and sin.

sri veyi lingala kona falls near Kalahasti

Veyyi Lingala Kona Near SriKalahasti is a famous for Waterfalls and  is one of the best relaxing Tourism places nearby Tirupati, situated on the Sri Veyi Lingala Kona Hills. The water is considered to have healing properties that can cure skin diseases. The word Veyi Lingala Kona in Telugu means 'the valley of the thousand lingas'. The monsoon and the post-monsoon seasons are the best time for visiting this Veyi Lingala Kona Waterfall.

Prettily situated on a flamboyant location, Veyi Lingala Waterfall is just 8 km east of Srikalahasti. The cascading falls tempts each visitor and it is an enchanting experience to take a dip in this mesmerizing falls. People throngs here in large crowds since the water in this cascade has the unique properties of healing. The popular belief is that the dip in the waterfalls would fetch salvation.

Moola Kona Puttur Tourist Attractions

Moola Kona Puttur is at a Distance of 97 Km from Tirupati

The Gajapath hill is an ideal spot for picnickers and trekkers, lending its beauty with one of the most visually pleasing waterfalls. The hill is covered with herbal floral greenery and the water passes through them seems so crystal clear water reaches a small pond through two cascades. One coming from the eastern part of the hill opposite to the temple of Goddess Parvathi Devi shrine facing north and the other from the northern part of the hill, just opposite to Lord Sangameshwara Swamy shrine facing east , water from the hill falls into a small pit of about 10 feet deep and reaches the pond and the other cascade passes to the .Lord Jalalingeshwara swamy along with a nandhi is installed in the middle of the pond on a 7 ft platform .Lord Ganesha facing north are also installed here just beside the pond.

Legend of moola kona puttur

As per Legends, This is the sporting place of Alamelumangathayaru daughter or Akasaraju, where Lord Srinivas (in human form ) saw adorable/charming Alamelumangathayaru for the first time and inspired of her beauty and fallen in love.

Driving Directions to Kalyani Dam in Tirupati

Kalyani dam in Tirupati is one of the interesting tourism places which is about 18 kms from Tirupati and falls under Ramgampet forest zone. Kalyani Dam, the reservoir of drinking water which is meant for pilgrims of Tirumala. Earlier Kalyani Dam water is meant for Tirupati Residents later due to high volume and Demand in Tirumala, Water is pumped to Tirumala. Kalyani Dam stands in middle of the Bakarapeta Forest. The catchment area of the dam is around 48.56 sq Km and the full reservoir level touching to 900 feet.

Kalyani Dam in Tirupati is great Picnic spot for Locals, it will be nice to spend time with family at this place. During Winter and Early Summer is good time to find water in the reservoir.

Driving directions to horsley hills Madanapalli

Horsley hills is a pleasant hill station which is preferred during Summer Season.Horsley hills amidst thick forest is the most ideal place for trekking and hill climbing. Horsley hill is known for its pleasant climate, mountain peaks, beautiful valleys and luxurious vegetation.

Horsley hills is located at an altitude of about 4,152 ft in the Nallamalai Range on Andhra Pradesh’s southwestern border with Karnataka.A.P.T.D.C guest house is available for stay as they considered it as one of the best Tourism places nearby tirupati.

Story of horsley hills madanapalle andhra pradesh?
Horsley Hills got its name after W.D. Horsley, who was once the Collector of Cuddapah district and British member of the Indian Civil service. It is he who had Horsley hills as his summer retreat. This place is predominantly occupied by the Chenchu tribes who still have the renowned Punganur cows which is known for their milk yielding capacity with low appetite.

Attractions:

1)150 year old Eucalyptus tree named as Kalyani

2)Kaundinya wild life sanctuary is situated at a distance of about 87 km

3) The Environmental Park known as EEC centre

4)Gali Bandalu is a rocky slope and is a major tourist attraction.

Bhoga Srinivasa Tirumala

hoga Srinivasa Idol Tirumala

Bhoga Srinivasa Idol or Manavala Perumal or Kouthuka Beram

Bhoga Srinivasa Idol is of Silver which is similar to the Moola Vigraham. It is in a standing pose with four arms. It has  a permanent Sanka and Chakra held in the upper right and left hands. The lower arms are in the Varada and Katyavalambhitha poses. The idol has a yantram installed on  it and was donated by Princess Samavai or Kadavan Perundevi of the Pallava Kingdom in 966 CE. All the rituals like Abhishekam, Ekanta Seva and So on, are performed for this idol which regarded as a representative of the main idol ( Moola Vigraham). The exception is during Dhanurmasam when this idol is replaced by Lord Krishna's Idol.

Bhoga Srinivasa is the one who distributes food to the heavenly beings at Bali Pitam, the stone structure near Dwajasthambham, at the four corners of the temple and in the four streets ( Thiru maada) surrounding the Temple.

Apart from the Moola Vigraham that is Older, the Bhoga Srinvasa Idol seems to be the earliest one, belonging to the Pallava period along with the Ugra Srinivas Idol.

The idol is connected to the main idol by means of silk cord and a gold link. Bhoga Srinvasa is supposed to represent the Dhruva Beram.

Tirumala Thulabharam History

Thulabharam Reference in Siva Puranam

Tulabharam is a Hindu ritual that has been practised from Dwapara Yuga. Tulabharam means a person weighing himself or herself in a balance and pay in equal weight of gold, fruits or grains to God when one’s prayers are fulfilled.
The earliest reference to a Tulabharam comes from the Mahabharata, about the great emperor Sibi. He was so famous his name is found in ancient Tamil Sangam literature in four places and later in hundreds of places. He was even praised in Buddhist Jataka stories and Borobudur (Indonesia) sculptures. Emperor Sibi was a just king. Lord Indra and Agni wanted to test him and came in the form of an eagle and a dove. When the dove came to Sibi for protection from the chasing eagle, Sibi was ready to offer anything to save the dove. The eagle asked him to give his flesh measure for measure. Sibi cut himself bit by bit but the pans in the balance were never equal. At last when he himself stood on the pan the Gods appeared in front of him and blessed him. The story is found in other Sanskrit works as well.”

Tonsuring at KalyanaKatta Tirumala

Story behind Tonsuring in KalyanaKatta Tirumala

First devotee who gave her hair to god is Neela Devi. Lord Srinivasa named this hill by her name as Neeladri. When Lord Srinivasa was hit by a Shepard on his head, a small portion of his scalp becomes bald. There is no hair growth over that place and this was noticed by Gandharva princess, Neeladevi. She felt such a handsome face should not have any defect. Immediately she cuts a portion of her hair and implants it on his scalp with her powers. As hair is considered as the beautiful aspect of women, Lord Srinivasa notices her sacrifice and he said all the hair given to him by devotees in Tirumala or Tirupati belongs to Neeladevi. Giving our hair to god is the symbol of leaving our ego. The word “Talanelalu” is also came from her name.

Special Entry Darshan Tirumala Tirupati Online Tickets Booking and Timings

e-Special Entry Darshan Timings in Tirumala

e-Special Entry Darshan Ticket Costs Rs.300 per person.

Devotees can also get e-special Entry Darshan tickets at Tirupati Head Post Office as well, which is near to Gangamma Temple.

e-Special entry Darshan tickets is available at e-Darshan counters in Tirupati, which are located at

1) Opposite Renigunta Railway station

2) Sri Vari Sannidhi which is on the way to Kapila Theertham.

e-Special Entry Darshan Timing slots on a particular day

10 a.m.

11 a.m.

12 noon

1 p.m.

2 p.m.

3 p.m.

4 p.m.

Usually Reporting timing will be 1 hour ahead of Darshan Time, which means if Reporting time is 10 A.M , then Darshan Time will be 11 A.M.

Please note that the Darshan Time is the actual time when a devotee is allowed in Queue Line for Darshan. And it will take approx 1:30 -2 hours to complete Darshan.

T.T.D is providing additional Laddu Tokens to Devotees in Vaikuntam Queue Line, Now Devotee can get two additional Tokens by paying Rs.25 for each Laddu. In total a devotee can get four Laddus from Laddu Counter.

History of SriVari Padalu Tirumala

"SriVari Padalu", in English means "Lord Sri Venkateswara's Feet ". 

SriVari Padalu Tirumala is located a way ahead of Sila Thoranam,As per the mythology this is the place where Lord Narayana first set his feet. The foot print is available here and devotees visit this place at the top of Narayanagiri hill for the divine sight.

The abode of Lord Venkateswara a human incarnation of Lord Vishnu is a location that has been famous to be the first foot step of the lord which he set on this piece of earth. The foot marks at SriVari Padalu are visible and the direction of the feet is pointing towards the today’s Ananda Nilayam.

SriVari Padalu Tirumala directions from Sila Thoranam

10 minute walk from Sila Thoranam one comes to cross roads, one road leading to Dharmagiri and the other to the highest peak on the Tirumala Hills, the Narayanagiri.

History of Sila Thoranam Tirumala

History of Sila Thoranam Tirumala

As per History, Lord Sri Venkateswara came to Tirumala in search of his wife Sri Maha Lakshmi . She He had reverence towards the sage Brigu Maharshi, even though the sage had insulted him by kicking Him on the chest, the place where his wife Sri Mahalakshmi was there. He stood at the Top of Tirumala, which is now called SRIPADAM.

On the way down from Sripadam to Tirumala, there is a place called SILA THORANAM. Here natural rock depicts Lord Vishnu’s Sangu, Sakram, Thiruman and his Abhayakaram

During excavations in the 1980’s on a mound of earth in the jungles 1 km. North of the temple where it was believed that some information lied buried about the Lord’s transformation into rock, a very rare phenomenon of two different sets of rocks connected together in the form of a thin link was found.They are formed naturally very mysterious indeed! This geological arch is a very rare spectacle in the world. This arch (older than the Jurassic age) is 25 feet in length, 10 feet in height.

how to book suprabhatam seva in tirumala online

Tirumala Suprabhata Seva

Tirumala Suprabhata Seva Description

Suprabhatham is the first seva of the day. The half-hour ritual awakens the Lord Sri Venkateswara from His Celestial Sleep with hymns that include 'Kausalya Supraja Rama' stotram, Sri Venkatesha Prapapthi and Sri Venkatesha Mangalam, and other hymns. 

During Tirumala Suprabhata seva, Navanitha Harathi is done to the Lord Sri Venkateswara and a mixture of cow's milk, butter and sugar is offered. It is performed in the 'Sayana Mandapam' of the Lord. Children below ten years are not allowed for Suprabhata Seva.

After Suprabhata Seva ritual, the 'Bangaru Vakili' is opened. During Dhanurmasam, instead of Suprabhatham, 'Andal Thiruppavai' is recited to awaken the Lord Venkateswara. The Theertha that is stored in the  vessels at night is distributed to the devotees. It is believed that Brahma and the other Celestials worship the Lord at night and this Theertha belongs to that worship.

Vimana Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple

Vimana Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple

Vimana Pradakshinam Inside Tirumala Temple

After crossing the inner Gopuram, one enters the open space that is known as the Vimana Pradakshinam. This is the second Pradakshinma path circumambulating the inner shrine. This space is in-between the walls of the 2nd Prakaram of the Inner Gopuram and the walls of the 1st Prakaram that surround the sanctum. The open space combined with the Tirumamani Mandapam measure hardly 5 mt. The Vimana or Gopuram can be seen from here.

The devotees who have taken a vow for Anga Pradakshinam or Circumambulation by rolling on the ground, perform it here. There are many cut stone structures, shrines and Mandapams inside in addition to the Garbagriham. The corridor has pillars built in typical Vijayanagara Style. They are carved with sculptures of a monkey and snake, lady with a bow, Kamsa, Puthana, Krishna tied to a stone, Ranganatha etc.

On the western Verandah, Veda Prayanam takes place every day. This verandah leads off into a number of rooms like the Kaikolas, Sangeetha Bhandaram and so on.

Vendi Vakili Tirumala Temple

Vendi Vakili Tirumala Temple

Vendi Vakili Tirumala Temple

It is the Inner Gopuram that leads to the Temple Proper. The base of the Inner Gopuram is rectangular in shape and east to west it is about 7 m wide and 11 m long from north to south. The width of the gateway is 2.7 m. In design it is similar to the outer Gopuram or Mukha Dwaram. The wooden doors here are covered with silver carvings. So it is also referred to as Vendi Vakili. The compound wall or the Prakaram of the his Gopuram measures 70.5 m east to west and 48 m north to south. The thickness of the walls is 90 cm.

There are numerous inscriptions on the outer as well as inner face of these walls and also on the base and walls of the Gopuram. The older inscriptions can be seen on the basement and walls of the Gopuram while the inner face of the Prakaram walls depict the inscriptions belonging to a later period of time. The outer face of these walls contains inscriptions belonging to the 15th and 16th centuries. From the earliest inscriptions belonging to the year 1209, it is assumed that the inner Gopuram has been in existence at least since then. It is also assumed that the base portion of this Gopuram might have been constructed sometime between 1160-1170. The inscriptions are found on the north base of the Gopuram that are partially hidden by the Prakaram wall.

There are two bas-reliefs on the walls at the entrance of this Inner Gopuram. One is Hathimramji playing dice with Lord Venkateswara and the other is the scene of Sri Rama Pattabhishekam. Sri Rama is seated on a platform in Sukhasana and His right hand is in Abhayahastha Chinmudra pose. His Consort Sita is also seated in Sukhasana like Her Lord; Her right hand holds a Lotus while the left hand is in the Parasarita Vamahastha pose. Lakshmana and Bharata are shown with folded hands in Anjali posture. Shatrughna standing to the right of Sri Rama holds the royal Umbrella. The carvings of Anjaneya and the two Paricharakas are also seen.

On the inside walls there are several inscriptions, the earliest one related to Pandya King Jata Varma Sundara Pandya who came to the throne in 1251.

Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple , Ranganayakula Mandapam Tirumala Temple

Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple

Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple, A big mandapam that is located on the southeast corner of the Sampangi Pradakshinam and to the left of the Pratima Mandapam, it houses several statues of royal devotees. It measures 32 m north to south and 18 m east to west. At its southern end, there is a small granite shrine about 3.6 m sq built with cut stones.

It is surrounded by a Vimana that has been kept closed. This shrine might have been the abode of the Utsavamurthy of Sri Ranganatha of SriRangam during His stay in Tirumala between 1320 and 1360. This was  to safeguard the idol from destruction when Srirangam was invaded by Mallik Khafur in 1320. The deity was worshipped here till 1360 when it was sent back to Srirangam.

The Shrine might have been closed after the idol was returned. Now the processional deities of Malaippa and His Consorts are housed in this small shrine. Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple is decorated during Brahmotsavam and other festival days. The Asthanam is held here for the Dwajarohanam during Brahmotsavam, on Deepavali and for 23 days in December in Connection with the Adyayanotsavam and some other festivals.

The space for Pradakshinam here is only about 3 mt wide, Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple is supposed to have been constructed between 1320 and 1360 by the Yadava ruler Sri Ranganada Yadavaraya. The top portion of the Pillars in this Mandapam is carved with panels depicting scenes from Ramayanam. The style and architecture belong to the Vijyanagara period.On the pillars, there is a sculpture of boar holding a sword that resembles the Vijayanagara royal crest of Varaha holding a long sword.

On the southern side of this shrine there is Yagnasala where Homas are performed. It has an inner Mandapam with four beautiful polished stone pillars. Ranga Mandapam Tirumala Temple is full of Sculptures carved in the Vijayanagara Style. A portion of it is now used as the office of the Peskhar and TTD Publications sales counter. Kalyanotsavams are also performed here.

tirupati ganga jatara 2015

tirupati ganga jatara 2015

Legend of Tirupati Ganga Jatara 2015

According to folklore, Legend has it that the local chief called as “Palegadu” used to seduce beautiful women. As per his commands, newly-wed women were forced to spend their first wedded night with him. The women prayed to Goddess Jaganmatha who then took birth as Gangamma, at Avilala village, near Tirupati.

When she grew up, Palegadu cast his lustful eyes on Gangamma. Palegadu insulted Gangamma, by pulling her hand in full public view when the later rejected him. When She showed her frightening “Viswaroopam” to him, to escape death, Palegadu fled and hid himself in an unidentified location. In search of him, Gangamma wore several attires for three days. And On the fourth day, she lured the Palegadu, attired as his boss (dora). Mistaking her for his boss, Palegadu came into the public, only to be slain by her.

To mark this memorable event and thanksgiving gesture to the Jaganmatha in the form of Goddess Gangamma, Jatara celebration is being held by Tirupati people.

Sampangi Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple

Sampangi Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple Details

From the Mahadwara, one enters the courtyard of the Temple. Cheek by Jowl with the Gopuram, there is a small mandapam with two wings on their side and a pathway in the middle. This is the Sampangi Pradakshinam, that forms the outer Prakaram inside the temple complex. The Mandapam measures 11 mt square. Sampangi Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple Stands on 16 pillars. The open space here is about 3.6 mt wide but on the other sides it is hardly 1.5 mt wide. There are several structures in Sampangi Pradakshinam Tirumala Temple.

The Bali Peetam and Dwajasthambam are located here. The sampangi Paradakshinam has a small mandapam in each of its four corners. These were constructed by Saluva Narasimha around 1470. The mandapams have four pillars measuring about 3 mt sq. During Vasanthotsavam, the processional diety is seated here.

The sampangi Prakaram, that is the pathway for circumambulating the temple, lies between the first and the third Prakarams. The Sampangi Prakaram Contains Prathima Mandapam, Ranga Mandapam, Tirumalaraya Mandapam, Saluva Narasimha Mandapam, Aina Mahal and the Dwajasthamba Mandapam.

Previously, the south, west and north facing prakarams of the Sampangi Pradakshinam were mere open spaces. In due course, corridors of the mandapam type were constructed touching the walls on one side and with pillars at the other end. On the south side the corridor is about 6 mt wide, leaving an open space 9 mt wide for Pradakshinam.

Padi Kavali Mahadwaram Tirumala Temple

Padi Kavali Mahadwaram Tirumala

Padi Kavali Mahadwaram Tirumala is the outer Gopuram of the Temple and it is 3.3 mt wide. It stands on a quadrangular base in the center of the structure. The Base measures 11 mt South To North and 9.6 mt East To West.

The distance between this Gopuram and the Inner Gopuram is 36 mt. The Compounds walls are 10 cm thick. There are two symmetrically placed cut stone door frames. The folding doors are hung on pivots. There is also a trapdoor entrance into the temple on the left side of the main door.

The arichtectural style of the  Gopuram belongs to the later Chola period and the inscriptions belong to the 13th Century. Several figures of the Vaishnava gods like Narasimha and Anjaneya can be seen on the Gopuram.

The Outer Gopuram has an inscription on the right side belonging to 1217, that describes the donations made by Yadavaraya Vira Narasinga Deva. This shows its antiquity. It also leads to the conclusion that although the outer Gopuram was constructed before 1217 CE, it might had only a bald entrance until about 1260 when the Gopuram was raised by one more level. The superstructure is made of brick and mortar and has a height of 15 mt. It has been renovated with white cement.

iskcon temple tirupati Darshan Timings

Iskcon temple Tirupati

Iskcon temple tirupati, A centre for Vedic culture and Theology at the most famous place of pilgrimage Tirupati.

Iskcon temple tirupati History

In 1974, His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada made a visit to Tirupati-Tirumala as a special guest of the Government of Andhra Pradesh. During his stay at Tirumala, Srila Prabhupada was extremely pleased to have darshan of Lord Venkateswara. He was also pleased to see hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visiting the divine daily. During the course of his discussion with Endowments Minister of A.P, Srila Prabhupada pointed out that TTD should take steps of propagating and reviving the message of Bhagavad Gita immediately on large scale. His Divine Grace said it was the only way to bring peace and harmony throughout the world. Since T.T.D has the basic infrastructure it should work out some programme and take the assistance of the devotees fo the ISCON to conduct vigorous preaching for the benefit of all.

In 1982, T.T.D provided a piece of land at the foot of the Divine Tirumala Hills. Today the vision of Srila Prabhupada is becoming unfolded. In order to effectively carry out the mission of broadcasting the science of God Consciousness, the master plan has been made for the temple. We strongly believe that this project will create a strong spiritual base for India, from where the universal message can easily reach one and all.

Japali Teertham Tirupati

JAPALI TEERTHAM TIRUPATI

The Hanuman temple at Japali Teertham Tirumala, is one if the least known and most worthy places during visit to Tirumala. After a kilometer's trek into the woods, the darshan of Lord Anjaneya is really a memorable experience. It is located 3 km from Gogarbham dam.

It is located amidst deep woods and a shrine of Lord Hanuman, which attracts several visitors. The famous festivals celebrated at this site are Tumburu Phalguna Pournami, Chakra Kartika Masa - Ksheerabdi Dwadasi, Kumaradhara Magha Pournami and Ramakrishna Pushya Pournami. Tourists can also trek from the dense forest to reach this holy pond in Tirumala.

It is believed that Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana stayed here with Hanuman.

There is also a pond called Rama Kund within the temple premises. This place is believed to have been blessed by Lord Hanuman as he himself got peace of mind in this place

One can find a tree at the entrance of the temple with a form of Lord Ganesha at its base and it is believed that Lord Ganesha himself appeared there

Devotees also believe that the holy water of Japali teertham Tirumala can wash away all the evils and sins that they have committed in their life