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'''Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple''' is one of the most popular and most visited [[Vaishnavism|Vaishnavite temple]] in India. It is in the hills of [[Tirumala]] at the city of [[Tirupati]] in [[Chitoor District]] of [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref>http://www.tirumala.org/</ref>This temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an avatar of [[Vishnu]]. This lord is also called by the names: Balaji, Govinda, Srinivasa, and Venkatajalapati.
{{Short description|Hindu temple in Andhra Pradesh, India}}
{{More citations needed|date=November 2021}}


The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is on the Venkatadri hill, which is one of the seven hills of the Seshadri hills range. This is why the temple is called '''Temple of Seven Hills'''. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is the second richest temple in the world after the [[Padmanabhaswamy Temple]], [[Thiruvananthapuram| Thiruvananthapuram]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foraywhile.com/top-10-richest-temple-in-the-world/|title=Top 10 Richest Temple in the World|first=|last=shrabani|date=16 January 2013|website=foraywhile.com|access-date=13 January 2017|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630162140/http://www.foraywhile.com/top-10-richest-temple-in-the-world/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2023}}
{{Infobox Hindu temple
| name              = Venkateswara Temple
| native_name      = <!-- No native name as per [[WP:NOINDICSCRIPTS]] -->
| image            = Tirumala 090615.jpg
| alt              =
| caption          =
| map_type          = India Andhra Pradesh
| map_caption      = Location in Andhra Pradesh
| coordinates      = {{coord|13|40|59.7|N|79|20|49.9|E|type:landmark_region:IN|display=inline,title}}
| country          = India
| state            = [[Andhra Pradesh]]
| district          = [[Tirupati district|Tirupati]]
| locale            = [[Tirumala]]
| creator          = Veera Narasingadeva Krishnadevaraya <br/> Veera Rakshasa Krishnadevaraya <br/> Ranganatharaya<ref>{{cite news|last1=Rangarajan|first1=A. D.|date=12 June 2020|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/yadavas-hail-restoration-of-golla-mirasi/article31816586.ece|title=Yadavas hail restoration of 'Golla Mirasi|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200614094930/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/yadavas-hail-restoration-of-golla-mirasi/article31816586.ece|archive-date=11 August 2020|access-date=12 June 2020}}</ref>
| elevation_m      = 853
| deity            = [[Venkateswara]] ([[Vishnu]])
| festivals        = [[Brahmotsavam]], [[Vaikunta Ekadasi#Tirupati|Vaikunta Ekadashi]], [[Ratha Saptami#In Tirumala|Ratha Saptami]]
| architecture      = [[South Indian architecture]]
| temple_quantity  = 1
| monument_quantity =
| inscriptions      = [[Telugu language|Telugu]], [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Kannada language|Kannada]] and [[Sanskrit]]<ref>{{cite book|title=Spiritual Journey, Imperial City: Pilgrimage to the Temples of Vijayanagara|author=Alexandra Mack|publisher=Vedams eBooks (P) Ltd, 2002 - Hindu pilgrims and pilgrimages - 227 pages|page=80}}</ref>
| temple_board      = [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]]
| website          = {{URL|www.tirumala.org/}}
}}{{Hinduism small}}
{{Vaishnavism}}
The '''Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple''' is a [[Hindu temple]] situated in the hill town of [[Tirumala]] at [[Tirupati]] in [[Tirupati district]] of [[Andhra Pradesh]], India. The Temple is dedicated to [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]], a form of [[Vishnu]], who is believed to have appeared on the earth to save mankind from trials and troubles of ''[[Kali Yuga]]''. Hence the place has also got the name Kaliyuga [[Vaikuntha]] and the deity here is referred to as Kaliyuga Prathyaksha Daivam. The temple is also known by other names like Tirumala Temple, Tirupati Temple and Tirupati Balaji Temple. Venkateswara is known by many other names: Balaji, Govinda, and Srinivasa.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tirumala.org/maintemple_about.htm |title=Tirumala Temple |access-date=13 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011032254/http://tirumala.org/maintemple_about.htm |archive-date=11 October 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The temple is run by [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]] (TTD), which is under control of Andhra Pradesh Government. The head of TTD is appointed by Andhra Pradesh Government.


The temple is daily visited by about 50,000 to 1,00,000 devotees. On Special days like [[Srivari Brahmotsavam|Brahmotsava]], Tirumala Temple is visited by more than 5 [[lakh]]s of devotees making the temple the most-visited holy place in the world.
The temple is one of the [[Pancha Kshethram]] where [[Maha Lakshmi]] was born as ''Bhargavi'' - the daughter of Maharishi Bhrigu. The other four temples of the [[Pancha Kshethram]] are [[Sarangapani temple, Kumbakonam]], [[Oppiliappan temple]], [[Nachiyar Koil]] and [[Sundararaja Perumal Temple, Salem]].


==Reference==
Tirumala Hills are part of [[Seshachalam Hills]] range. The hills are {{convert|853|m|ft}} above sea level and comprise [[sapthagiri|seven peaks]], representing the seven heads of [[Adisesha]]. The temple lies on the seventh peak—[[Venkata (hill)|Venkatadri]], on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini, a holy water tank. Hence the temple is also referred to as "Temple of Seven Hills".<ref>{{Cite book |last=Chandra |first=Subhash |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Rh8vEAAAQBAJ |title=God vs Alien: (English Version) |date=19 May 2021 |publisher=Subhash Chandra |pages=54 |language=en}}</ref> Tirumala town covers an area of about {{convert|10.33|sqmi|km2|2|abbr=on}}.
{{reflist}}


[[Category:Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh]]
The Temple is constructed in [[South Indian architecture]] and is believed to be constructed over a period of time starting from 300 CE.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 May 2022 |title=21 Unknown Facts about Tirupati Balaji Temple (Venkateswara Swamy) |url=https://ttdsevadetails.in/unknown-facts-about-tirupati-balaji-temple/ |access-date=15 May 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> The [[Garbhagriha|Garbhagruha]] (Sanctum Sanctorum) is called Ananda Nilayam. The presiding deity, Venkateswara, is in standing posture and faces east in Garbha Gruha. The temple follows [[Vaikhanasa]] [[Āgama (Hinduism)|Agama]] tradition of worship. The temple is one of the eight Vishnu Swayambhu Kshetras and is listed as the 75th [[Divya Desam]]. The Temple premises have two modern Queue complex buildings to manage the pilgrim crowd, Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasadam complex for free meals to Pilgrims, hair tonsure buildings and a number of pilgrim lodging sites.
 
It is one of the richest temples in the world in terms of donations received and wealth.<ref name="ndtv">{{cite news |last=Sudhir |first=Uma |date=13 September 2007 |url=http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070026005| title=Tirupati ousts Vatican, reigns at top | access-date=13 September 2007 |work=NDTV |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070922164950/http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070026005|archive-date=22 September 2007 }}</ref><ref name="CSHindu">{{cite book |last1=Sivaratnam |first1=C |year=1964 |title=An Outline of the Cultural History and Principles of Hinduism |publisher= Stangard Printers |location=Colombo |edition=1 |oclc=12240260 |quote=Koneswaram temple. Tiru-Kona-malai is the sacred mountain of Kona or Koneser, Iswara or Siva. The date of building the original temple is given as 1580 BCE according to a Tamil poem by Kavi Raja Virothayan translated into English in 1831 by Simon Cassie Chitty ... }}</ref><ref name="HLtoSL">{{cite book |last1=Ramachandran |first1=Nirmala|year=2004 |title=The Hindu legacy to Sri Lanka|publisher=Stamford Lake (Pvt.) Ltd. 2004 |location=Pannapitiya|oclc=230674424|isbn=9789558733974|quote= Portuguese writer De Queyroz compares Konesvaram to the famous Hindu temples in Rameswaram, [[Ekambareswarar Temple (Kanchipuram)|Kanchipuram]], Tirupatti-Tirumalai, Jagannath and Vaijayanthi and concludes that while these latter temples were well visited by the Hindus, the former had surpassed all the latter temples by the early 1600s}}</ref>
 
There are [[Legend of Tirumala|several legends]] associated with the manifestation of the deity in Tirumala. According to one legend, the temple has a [[murti]] of Venkateswara, it is believed, which shall remain here for the entire duration of the present ''[[Kali Yuga]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shilpa |date=5 December 2018 |title=Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh |url=https://www.bharattemples.com/venkateswara-temple-tirumala-andhra-pradesh/ |access-date=19 April 2022 |website=Bharat Temples |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=21 May 2020 |title=Tirupati – Tirumala – Venkateswara the lord of the Kali Yuga |url=https://dakshinavarta.com/2020/05/21/tirupati-tirumala/ |access-date=19 April 2022 |website=Dakshināvarta |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |first=Mona |last=Punjabi |date=21 April 2019 |title=Tirupati Balaji - History of Tirupati Balaji temple |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/religious-places/history-of-tirupati-balaji-temple/articleshow/68206101.cms |access-date=19 April 2022 |work=The Times of India}}</ref>
 
==Temple legend==
{{main|Legend of Tirumala}}
 
During ''[[Dvapara Yuga]]'', [[Shesha|Adishesha]] resided on earth as [[Seshachalam Hills]] after losing a contest with [[Vayu]]. According to [[Puranas]], [[Tirumala]] is regarded as Adivaraha Kshetra. After killing [[Hiranyaksha]], [[Varaha|Adivaraha]] resided on this hill. Venkatachala Mahatyam is the widely accepted legend over Tirumala Temple.<ref name=legend1>{{cite web|url = http://www.tirumala.org/TempleLegend.aspx|title = Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Temple Legend}}</ref>
 
During ''[[Kali Yuga]]'', [[Narada]] advised some sages who were performing [[yajna|yagna]] to decide who could be given the fruits of yagna among [[Trimurti]]s ([[Brahma]], [[Vishnu]] and [[Shiva]]). [[Bhrigu]] was sent to test the Trinity. The sage who had an extra eye in the sole of his foot visited [[Brahma]] and [[Shiva]] and went unnoticed in both these locations. He cursed Brahma to be not worshipped and Shiva to be worshipped as a [[lingam]]. At last he visited [[Vishnu]] and the lord acts as if he had not noticed Bhrigu. Getting angered by this act, sage Bhrigu kicked Vishnu in the chest, to which Vishnu did not react and instead apologised to the Sage by massaging his feet. During this act, he squashed the extra eye that was present in the sole of Bhrigu's foot. However [[Lakshmi]] finds it as an insult since Vishnu's chest was considered as Lakshmi's residence (''vakshasthala'') and Bhrigu kicked it which indirectly insulted Lakshmi. She then left [[Vaikuntha]] and came to Earth to [[Kolhapur]] and started meditating.<ref name=legend1 />
 
Vishnu bore human form as [[Venkateswara|Srinivasa]], left Vaikuntha, in search of Lakshmi, reached the ''Seshachalam'' hills in Tirumala and started meditating. Lakshmi learned of the condition of Srinivasa and called Shiva and Brahma. Shiva and Brahma then converted themselves into Cow and Calf and Lakshmi had handed over the cow and calf to [[Chola]] king ruling over Tirumala Hills at that time. The Cow would provide milk to Srinivasa daily while it was taken for grazing. One day, a cowherd saw this and tried to beat the Cow with his staff but Srinivasa had borne the injury. Getting angered by this Srinivasa had cursed the Chola king to become a [[Demon]] as dharma says sins committed by servants (''shudras'') should be borne by Kings. The king prayed for mercy after which Srinivasa said to him, that the King should take next birth as Akasharaja and should perform marriage of his daughter Padmavati with Srinivasa.<ref name=legend1 />
 
Srinivasa went to his foster-mother [[Vakula Devi]] on Tirumala hills and stayed there for a while. After curse, [[Chola dynasty|Chola]] king took rebirth as Akasharaja and he had a daughter named Padmavati, who was born in the Padmapushkarini situated at present day [[Tiruchanur]] in [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Srinivasa married Padmavati at present day Narayanavanam in Andhra Pradesh and returned to Tirumala Hills. After few months, Goddess Lakshmi had discovered the marriage of Srinivasa with Padamavati and went to Tirumala hills to question Srinivasa. Srinivasa, unable to bear the quarrel between Lakshmi and Padmavati, turned into stone right when he was encountered by Lakshmi and Padmavathi. Brahma and Shiva appeared before the confused queens and explain the main purpose behind all this - The Lord's desire to be on the seven hills for the emancipation of mankind from the perpetual troubles of ''Kali Yuga''. Goddesses Lakshmi and Padmavathi also turn into stone deities expressing their wish to be always there. Lakshmi stays with Him on His Chest on the left side while Padmavathi rests on His Chest's right side.<ref name=legend1 />
 
==History of the temple==
{{main|History of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple}}
 
===Medieval history===
The first recorded endowment was made by Pallava queen Samavai in the year 966 CE. She donated many jewels and two parcels of land (one 10 acres and other 13 acres) and ordered to use the revenues generated from that land for the celebration of major festivals in the temple.{{sfn|Feminism and World Religions| 1999| p= 48}} The [[Pallava dynasty]] (9th century), the [[Chola dynasty]] (10th century), and Vijayanagara [[pradhan]]s (14th and 15th centuries) were committed devotees of Venkateswara. The temple gained most of its current wealth and size under the [[Vijayanagara Empire]], present-day [[Karnataka state]], with the donation of diamonds and gold.<ref name = 'Tirumalatemple'>{{cite book |author=N.Ramesan|title=The Tirumala Temple |year=1981 |publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams|location=Tirumala}}</ref> In 16th century, Vijayanagara Emperor [[Krishnadevaraya]] was a frequent donor and visitor to the temple. His donations of gold and jewels enabled the [[Ananda Nilayam]] (inner shrine) roofing to be gilded. On 2 January 1517, Krishnadevaraya installed his own statue in the temple.<ref name="ttd">{{cite web |last1=ttd |first1=official site |title=TTD Temple History |url=https://www.tirumala.org/TTDTempleHistory.aspx |website=Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams |publisher=Temple website |access-date=15 December 2019}}</ref>
 
After the decline of Vijayanagara Empire, rulers from states such as the [[Kingdom of Mysore]] and the [[Gadwal Samsthanam]] worshipped as pilgrims and donated ornaments and valuables to the temple.{{citation needed|date=August 2022}} [[Maratha Empire|Maratha general]] [[Raghoji I Bhonsle]] set up a permanent administration for the conduct of worship in the temple. He donated valuable jewels to the Lord which are still preserved in a box named after him.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.tirumala.org/maintemple_history.htm| title=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams: Temple History| access-date=15 July 2011| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120412013703/http://www.tirumala.org/maintemple_history.htm| archive-date=12 April 2012| url-status=dead| df=dmy-all}}</ref> Between 1320 CE and 1369 CE, idols of [[Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam]] were brought to this temple for safe keeping.<ref name="ttd"/>{{better source needed|date= August 2022}}
 
===Ramanujacharya's visits===
In the 11th and 12th centuries, [[Ramanujacharya]] visited Tirupati thrice. On the first occasion, he spent a year with his uncle, Tirumalai Nambi, learning the esoteric meaning of [[Ramayana]]. His second visit was for settling a dispute that arose between the [[Saivites]] and [[Vaishnavites]] regarding the nature of the image set up in the Tirumala temple.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Sreenivasa Ayyangar |first=C. R |url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/30865934 |title=The life and teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya |date=1908 |publisher=R. Venkateshwar |location=Madras |language=English |oclc=30865934}}</ref> During the last visit, which was at an advanced old age of 102 years, the acharya installed the image of [[Govindaraja Temple, Tirupati|Govindaraja]] and laid the foundations of the present town of Tirupati.<ref name = 'Tirumalatemple'/> Ramanuja streamlined the rituals at Tirumala temple according to [[Vaikhanasas|Vaikanasa]] [[Agama (Hinduism)|Agama]] tradition and introduced the recitation of [[Naalayira Divya Prabandham]]. He also set up Tirupati Jeeyar [[Matha|Mutt]] in 1119 AD in consultation with Tirumalai Ananthalwan to institutionalize service to the deity and supervise the temple rituals. The Jeeyars to this day ensures that the rituals ordained by Ramanuja are observed.<ref>{{cite news |title=Pontiffs Jeeyangars, the Ombudsman of Tirumala Temple rituals – TTD News |url=http://news.tirumala.org/pontifs-jeeyangars-the-ombudsman-of-tirumala-temple-rituals/ |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=T. T. D. News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Voice of a mighty philosophy |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/history-and-culture/Voice-of-a-mighty-philosophy/article16614610.ece |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=25 March 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Narasimhan |first1=T. A |title=He streamlined the rituals at Tirumala temple |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/He-crawled-all-the-way-up/article14425912.ece |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=16 June 2016}}</ref>
 
===Modern history===
[[File:SwamiPushkarni.JPG|thumb|250px|Swami Pushkarni of Tirumala]]
{{See also|Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams#Establishment and legislative setting|l1=Establishment and legislative setting of TTD}}
After the end of [[Vijayanagara Empire]], the temple went into the hands of [[Golconda]] in July 1656 and then it was under the [[French India|
French]] for a short period of time and under [[Nawab of Carnatic]] till 1801 CE. With the advent of British during the early 19th century, the management of the temple passed to hands of [[East India Company]], who accorded special status to temple and avoided interference in temple activities.<ref name="british">{{cite book |last=V.K|first=Bhaskara Rao |title=Organisational and Financial Management of Religious Institutions: With Special Reference to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) |publisher=Deep and Deep Publications |date=1992 |pages=52, 53|isbn=81-7100-441-5}}</ref> Madras government passed Regulation seven of 1817, which passed the temple to Board of Revenue through collector of North Arcot District.<ref name="british" /> In 1821, Bruce, the then East India company commissioner for Chittoor district, had drawn rules for the management of Temple which is referred to as ''[[Bruce's Code]]''.<ref name="british" />
The 7th [[Nizam]] of [[Hyderabad]], [[Mir Osman Ali Khan]] donated {{INR}}8,000 to the temple.<ref name="auto">{{cite news|title=A 'miser' who donated generously|newspaper=thehindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/A-lsquomiser-who-donated-generously/article15988076.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005104303/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/A-lsquomiser-who-donated-generously/article15988076.ece|archive-date=5 October 2020|date=19 February 2010|access-date=19 October 2020}}</ref>
 
In 1843, the [[East India Company]] transferred the Administration of Temple along with [[List of temples under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams#In Tirupati|other Temples in Tirupati]] to [[Mahant]]s of [[Hathiram Bhavaji#Hathiramji Muth|Hathiramji Muth]], who acted as Vicaranakartas. It was under the rule of Mahants for six generations until 1933 when [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]] was formed as a result of the TTD Act in 1933.<ref>{{cite book |last=Koutha |first=Nirmala Kumari |title=History of the Hindu Religious Endowments in Andhra Pradesh |publisher=Northern Book Centre |date=1 January 1998 |page=124 |isbn=81-7211-085-5}}</ref> The Act of 1933 was superseded by Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Act of 1951.<ref name=apendowments>{{cite book |last=Koutha |first=Nirmala Kumari |title=History of the Hindu Religious Endowments in Andhra Pradesh |publisher=Northern Book Centre |date=1 January 1998 |page=136 |isbn=81-7211-085-5}}</ref> Again in 1966, the temple was placed under direct control of [[Andhra pradesh]] State Endowments Department, with Andhra Pradesh Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments act.<ref name=apendowments /> In 1979, act of 1966 was rolled back with new Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams act, where temple administration was vested to a committee consisting of Executive officer, Chairman and two other members nominated by [[Government of Andhra Pradesh]].<ref name=apendowments />
The temple is run by body [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]] (TTD) which is under control of Andhra Pradesh Government. The head of TTD is appointed by Andhra Pradesh Government. The revenue from this shrine is used by Andhra Pradesh government.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|date=17 October 2020|title=Andhra government eyes Tirupati wealth|url=https://www.sundayguardianlive.com/news/andhra-government-eyes-tirupati-wealth|access-date=22 August 2021|website=The Sunday Guardian Live}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite news |last1=Seshagiri |first1=D M |last2=Sinha |first2=Saurabh |title=Andhra Pradesh government reappoints YV Subba Reddy as TTD Board Chairman |url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/andhra-pradesh-government-reappoints-yv-subba-reddy-as-ttd-board-chairman-2382937.html |access-date=30 July 2022 |work=Zee News |date=8 August 2021}}</ref>
 
The temple bears as many as 640 inscriptions in [[Kannada]], [[Sanskrit]], [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Telugu language|Telugu]] languages.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://srivenkatesa.org/index.php/temple/templehistory/675-tirumala-hill-shrine-and-inscriptions |title=Archived copy |access-date=22 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208115439/http://srivenkatesa.org/index.php/temple/templehistory/675-tirumala-hill-shrine-and-inscriptions |archive-date=8 December 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> There is a unique collection of about 3000 copper plates on which the [[Carnatic music|Telugu Sankirtanas]] of [[Tallapaka Annamacharya]] and his descendants are inscribed.<ref>{{cite book|title=Musical heritage of India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1o4HAQAAMAAJ&q=3000+copper+plates+annamcharya|access-date=23 September 2019|isbn = 9788187226611|last1 = Ramakrishna|first1 = Lalita|year = 2003}}</ref><ref name=annam2>{{cite book|title=International Journal of Dravidian Linguistics: IJDL., Volume 36|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=23ULAQAAMAAJ&q=3000+copper+plates+annamcharya|access-date=23 September 2019|year = 2007}}</ref> This collection forms a valuable source of material for a historical linguist in Telugu apart from its importance to musicologists.<ref name=annam2 />
 
==Temple administration==
{{Main|Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams}}
[[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]] (TTD) is the trust board which oversees and manages the operations of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. It is operated by a board of trustees that has increased in size from five (1951) to eighteen (2015)<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/New-TTD-Board-Members-to-Take-Oath-on-May-2/2015/04/30/article2790143.ece| title=New TTD Board Members to Take Oath on May 2|access-date=31 July 2015}}</ref> through the adoption of Acts. The daily operation and management of TTD is the responsibility of an executive officer, who is appointed by the [[Government of Andhra Pradesh]].
 
The temple attracts approximately 75,000 pilgrims every day.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.ibnlive.com/news/tirumala-the-epicentre-of-faith/25092-3.html|publisher= CNN-IBN|title =Tirumala, the epicentre of faith|date=2 November 2006|author=Jatania, Prachi| access-date=15 July 2011}}</ref> The annual budget, estimated at INR 2530.10 crores for the financial year 2015–16,<ref>{{cite web|url = http://news.tirumala.org/ttd-approves-annual-budget/|title = TTD approves annual budget for the year 2015-16}}</ref> runs charitable trusts whose funds are derived from the budget and donations from the devotees.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.tirumala.org/activities_main.htm| title=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams: Social Service|access-date=15 July 2011}}</ref> The annual income is estimated at INR 10&nbsp;billion in 2008. Most of its income is derived from the donations in SriVari Hundi. Devotees donate to the TTD, which runs into millions of rupees. TTD, the organisation running the welfare of the temple, runs various charitable trusts, whose funds are derived from the budget and donations from the devotees.<ref>{{cite web
|url = http://www.tirumala.org/activities_main.htm|title = TTD-social service activities}}</ref>
{{See also|List of temples under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams}}
 
==Architecture==
{{main|Architecture of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple}}
[[File:Tirumala Venkateswara temple entrance 09062015.JPG|thumb|View of Facade of the temple]]
[[File:Tirumala overview.jpg|thumb|250px|Tirumala Temple and [[Vaikuntam Queue Complex]] (semicircular building in the foreground) as seen from Srivari Padalu on Narayanagiri hill]]
 
;Dvarams and Prakarams
There are three ''dvarams'' (entrances) which lead to the ''[[garbhagriha]]'' from outside. ''Mahadvaram,'' also known as ''padikavali'', is the first entrance which is provided through ''Mahaprakaram'' (outer compound wall). A 50 feet, five storied [[Gopuram]] (Temple tower) is constructed over this Mahadvaram with seven [[kalasam]]s at its apex. ''Vendivakili'' (Silver Entrance), also known as ''Nadimipadikavali'', is the second entrance and is provided through ''Sampangi Prakaram'' (Inner compound wall). A three storied Gopuram is constructed over Vendivakili with seven Kalasams at its apex. ''Bangaruvakili'' (golden entrance) is the third entrance which leads into the ''[[garbhagriha]]''. There are two tall copper images of the [[dvarapala]]kas [[Jaya-Vijaya]] on either side of this door. The thick wooden door is covered with gold gilt plates depicting the [[Dashavatara]] of [[Vishnu]].
 
;Pradakshinams
The circumambulation around the [[sanctum sanctorum]] in the temple or deities is called [[Parikrama|Pradakshinam]]. There are two circumbulation paths in the temple. The first one is area between the ''Mahaprakaram'' and the ''sampangiprakaram''. This path known as ''Sampangipradakshinam'' has many [[Mandapa]]s, a [[Dwajasthambam|dvajasthambam]], a [[Bali Pitha|bali pitha]], kshetrapalika sila, and a prasadam distribution area. The ''Vimanapradakhinam'' is the second ''pradakshinam'', which circumbulates the ''[[Ananda Nilayam|Ananda Nilayam Vimanam]]''. This path has sub-shrines dedicted to Varadaraja and Yoga Narasimha, a potu (main kitchen), a bangaru bavi (golden well), an Ankurarpana Mandapam, a [[Yaga-shala|yagashala]], Nanala (coins and Notla (Paper notes) Parkamani, Almyrah of Sandal paste (Chandanapu ara), a cell of records, Sannidhi Bhashyakarulu, a hundi, and the seat of [[Vishvaksena]].
 
;Anandanilayam vimanam and Garbhagriha
The ''[[garbhagriha]]'' is the [[sanctum sanctorum]] where the presiding deity [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]] resides along with other small deities. The golden entrance leads to the g''arbhagriha''. There are two more doors in between the ''bangaruvakili'' and the ''garbhagriha''. The deity is in a standing posture with four hands in different postures - one in ''varada'' posture, one placed over thigh and other two holding the ''[[Panchajanya]]'' and the ''[[Sudarshana Chakra]]''. The deity is decorated with precious ornaments. The deity bears the [[Lakshmi|goddess Lakshmi]] on the right chest and the [[Alamelu|goddess Padmavati]] on the left. Pilgrims are not allowed to enter the garbhagriha (beyond ''Kulasekharapadi'' (path).
 
The ''[[Ananda Nilayam|Ananda Nilayam Vimanam]]'' is the main gopuram constructed over the ''garbhagriha''. This is a three-storied gopuram and has single [[Kalasam]] at its apex. It is covered with gilt copper plates and covered with a golden vase. Depictions of several deities are carved over this gopuram. On this gopuram, there is a deity of Venkateswara known as ''Vimana Venkateswara,'' which is believed{{by whom|date=March 2023}} to be exact replica of deity inside the ''garbhagriha''.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Sitapati |first=Pidatala |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=10QgAAAAMAAJ |title=Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of the Seven Hills, Tirupati |date=1968 |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan |pages=107 |language=en}}</ref>
 
==Deities in the temple==
{{main|Venkateswara|Tirumala Dhruva Bera|Deities in Tirumala Venkateswara Temple}}
[[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]], an [[avatar]] of [[Vishnu]] is the [[Tirumala Dhruva Bera|presiding deity of the temple]]. It is believed that the [[Moolavar|Moolavirat]] is Swayambhu (self manifested).<ref name=svayam1>{{cite book|title=Pagan Ethics: Paganism as a World Religion|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4cJOCgAAQBAJ&q=Swayambhu+tirumala&pg=PA405|access-date=24 September 2019|isbn = 9783319189239|last1 = York|first1 = Michael|date = 5 August 2015}}</ref>
[[File:Lord Venkat.jpeg|thumb|250px|A replica of the [[Garbhagriha]] of the Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala depicting '''Left''' - [[Lakshmi|Sridevi]] and [[Bhūmi|Bhudevi]] and [[Malayappa swami|Malayappa Swami]], '''Center''' - deity Venkateswara Main Deity (Dhruva beram), '''Center bottom''' - Bhoga Srinivasa, '''Right'''- Ugra Srinivasa, Koluvu Srinivasa, [[Sita]] and [[Lakshmana]] and Sri [[Rama]], Sri [[Krishna]], [[Rukmini]] ]]
 
===Pancha berams===
As per Vaikhanasa Agamas, Venkateswara is represented by five [[Murti|deities]] (berams) including the [[Moolavar|Moolavirat]] which are together referred to as '''Pancha beramulu''' (Pancha means five; Beram means Deity).<ref name=panchaberam>{{cite book | title =Sri Venkateshwara| publisher = Shantha Nair| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=CY9eAAAAQBAJ&q=pancha+beram&pg=PT219| isbn = 9788184954456| date = 7 January 2014}}</ref> The five deities are Dhruva Beram (Moolavar), Kautuka Beram, Snapana Beram, Utsava Beram, Bali Beram. All the pancha berams are placed in the Garbha griha under [[Ananda Nilayam|Ananda Nilayam Vimanam]].<ref name=panchaberam />
 
#'''Moolavirat''' or '''[[Tirumala Dhruva Bera|Dhruva Beram]]'''- In the centre of [[Garbha griha]], under the Ananda Nilayam Vimana, the Moolavirat of Venkateswara is seen in standing posture on lotus base, with four arms, two holding Shanka and Chakra and one in Varada posture and other in Kati posture. This deity is considered the main source of energy for the temple and adorns with the Vaishnavite nama and jewels including vajra kiritam (diamond crown), Makarakundalas, Nagabharana, Makara Kanti, [[Saligrama]] haram, Lakshmi haram.<ref name=panchaberam /> Venkateswara's consort, [[Lakshmi]] stays on the chest of the Moolavirat as Vyuha Lakshmi.
#'''[[Bhoga Srinivasa]]''' or '''Kautuka Beram''' -- This is a small one-foot (0.3 m) silver deity which was given to the temple in 614 AD by the [[Pallava dynasty|Pallava]] Queen Samavai for conducting festivals. Bhoga Srinivasa is always placed near the left foot of Moolavirat and is always connected to the main deity by a holy ''Sambandha Kroocha''.This deity receives many daily sevas(pleasures) on behalf of Moolavar and hence known as Bhoga Srinivasa(Telugu: Bhoga means Pleasure). This deity receives Ekanthaseva daily<ref name=bhoga1>{{cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Tiruppavai-to-replace-Suprabhata-Seva/articleshow/55865340.cms| title=Tiruppavai to replace Suprabhata Seva | work=times of india | date=8 December 2016 | access-date=27 July 2018}}</ref> and SahasraKalasabhisheka on Wednesdays.
#'''[[Ugra Srinivasa]]''' or '''Snapana Beram''' - This deity represents the fearsome (Telugu: Ugra means angry) aspect of deity Venkateswara.<ref name=ugra2>{{cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Much-awaited-Kaisika-Dwadasi-falls-on-November-11/articleshow/55271593.cms| title=Much awaited Kaisika Dwadasi falls on November 11 | work=times of india | date=6 November 2016 | access-date=27 July 2018}}</ref><ref name=ugra1>{{cite news | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/Fervour-marks-%E2%80%98Kaisika-Dwadasi%E2%80%99-at-Tirumala/article16443338.ece| title=Fervour marks 'Kaisika Dwadasi' at Tirumala | work=The Hindu | date=2 December 2016 | access-date=27 July 2018}}</ref> This deity was the main processional deity until 1330 CE when it was replaced by the Malayappa Swami deity.<ref name=panchaberam /> Ugra Srinivasa remains inside the sanctum sanctorum and comes out on a procession only one day in a year: on ''Kaishika Dwadasi,'' before the sunrise.<ref name=ugra1 /><ref name=ugra2 /> This deity receives daily ''[[abhishekam]]'' on behalf of Moolavirat, giving the name Snapana Beram(Sanskrit: Snapana means cleansing)
#'''[[Malayappa swami|Malayappa Swami]]''' or '''Utsava Beram''' - Malayappa is the processional deity (Utsava beram) of the Temple and is always flanked by the deities of his consorts [[Lakshmi|Sridevi]] and [[Bhūmi|Bhudevi]]. This deity receives all festivals like [[Srivari Brahmotsavam|Brahmotsavams]], Kalyanotsavam, Dolotsavam, Vasanthotsavam, Sahasra deepalankarana seva, Padmavati parinyotsavams, pushpapallaki, Anivara asthanam, Ugadi asthanam etc.
#'''[[Koluvu Srinivasa]]''' or '''Bali Beram'''- Koluvu Srinivasa represents Bali Beram. Koluvu Srinivasa is regarded as the guardian deity of the temple that presides over its financial and economic affairs. Daily Koluvu seva(Telugu: Koluvu means engaged in) is held in the morning, during which, the previous day's offerings, income, expenditures are notified to this deity, with a presentation of accounts. Panchanga sravanam also is held at the same time during which that particular days [[Tithi]], sunrise and sunset time, nakshatra are notified to the Venkateswara.
 
===Other Murtis===
Along with Pancha berams, the garbha griha also hosts the [[panchaloha]] deities of [[Sita]], [[Rama]], [[Lakshmana]], [[Rukmini]], [[Krishna]],<ref name=bhoga1 /> [[Sudarshana Chakra#In anthropomorphic form|Chakratalvar]]. The temple hosts the deities of [[Garuda]] (Vishnu's vehicle), [[Narasimha]], Varadaraja, [[Kubera]], [[Hanuman]] in their respective sub-shrines. The temple also host the deities of [[Shesha]] (Vishnu's serpent), [[Viswaksena]], [[Sugriva]], [[Ramanuja]]. Vimana Venkateswara is the exact replica icon of Venkateswara carved on the Ananda Nilayam Viamana's second tier north west corner.<ref name=panchaberam />
 
==Worship==
 
===Puja===
The temple follows ''[[Vaikhanasas|Vaikhanasa Agama]]'' tradition of worship,<ref name=agama>{{cite book|title=Tirumala, the Panorama of Seven Hills|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=b6jXAAAAMAAJ&q=tirumala+vaikhanasa+agama|access-date=20 September 2019|last1 = Varadachary|first1 = T.|year = 1999}}</ref> which is believed to be revealed by Sage Vikhanasa<ref name=agama2>{{cite book|title=Encyclopaedia of Oriental Philosophy and Religion: Hinduism|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=skb05uE64cEC&q=Vaikhanasa&pg=PA891|access-date=20 September 2019|isbn = 9788182200746|last1 = Singh|first1 = Nagendra Kr|last2 = Mishra|first2 = A. P.|year = 2005}}</ref><ref name=agama1>{{cite book|title=Tirumala, the Panorama of Seven Hills|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=b6jXAAAAMAAJ&q=vaikhanasa+vikhanasa|access-date=20 September 2019|last1 = Varadachary|first1 = T.|year = 1999}}</ref> and is propagated by his disciples [[Atri]], [[Bhrigu]], [[Marichi]], [[Kasyapa]].<ref name=agama2 /><ref name=agama3>{{cite book|title=Instrument and Purpose: Studies on Rites and Rituals South India|publisher=Gleevup|url=https://archive.org/details/in.gov.ignca.4725|quote=Sage Vikhanasa atri.|access-date=20 September 2019|last1 = Diehl|first1 = Carl Gustav|year = 1956}}</ref> Vaikhanasa is one of the principal traditions of [[Hinduism]] and primarily worships [[Vishnu]] (and his associated Avatars) as the Supreme God. This ancient texts recommends six times a day [[Puja (Hinduism)|puja]] (worship) for Vishnu, of which minimum one puja is mandatory.<ref name=worship1>{{cite web|title=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Arjitha Sevas|url=http://www.tirumala.org/ArjithaSevas.aspx|access-date=18 August 2015}}</ref> Rituals are classified as daily, weekly and periodical. The daily sevas in Temple (in order of occurrence) include Suprabhata Seva, Thomala Seva, Archana, Kalyanotsavam, Dolotsavam (Unjal Seva), Arjita Brahmotsavam, Arjita Vasantotsavam, Sahasra Dipalankarana Seva, Ekanta Seva. Weekly sevas of the Temple include Vishesha Pooja on Monday, Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana on Tuesday, Sahasra Kalasabhishekam on Wednesday, Tiruppavada Seva on Thursday, Abhishekam and Nijapada Darshanam on Friday. There are no weekly sevas on Saturday and Sunday. Periodical rituals include Jyesthabhishekam, Aaniwara Asthanam, Pavithrotsavam, Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam.
 
===Naivedhyam===
{{main|Naivedhya}}
[[File:Stamp of India - 2017 - Colnect 805329 - Bhog Prasad Tirupati Laddoo (cropped).jpeg|thumb|Postal stamp issued by [[India Post]] commemorating the Tirupati Laddu]]
The ''[[Tirupati Laddu]]'' is given at Tirumala Temple as [[prasadam]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-05-07/patna/27880287_1_laddoos-mahavir-mandir-sale | work=The Times of India | title=Record sale of Tirupati laddoos | date=7 May 2007}}</ref> Tirupati Laddu had got [[Geographical indication]] tag which entitles only [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]] to make or sell it.<ref>{{cite news|title=Only TTD entitled to make or sell 'Tirupati laddu': High Court|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/only-ttd-entitled-to-make-or-sell-tirupati-laddu-high-court/article5743809.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=23 June 2015|date=3 March 2014|last1=Sivaraman|first1=R.}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Now, Geographical Indication rights for 'Tirupati laddu'|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/now-geographical-indication-rights-for-tirupati-laddu-114022800969_1.html|publisher=Business Standard|access-date=23 June 2015|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=28 February 2014}}</ref> Many other prasadams are also offered to Venkateswara and they are classified as Anna-prasadams and Panyarams.<ref>{{cite book|title=Srivari Brahmotsavam: A celestial spectacle on earth|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FXZMAgAAQBAJ&q=daddojanam&pg=PA30|access-date=23 September 2019|year = 2013}}</ref> Annaprasadams include chakerapongal (sweet), [[Pulihora]] (tamarind rice), miryala pongal, kadambham, [[Curd rice|daddojanam]] (curd rice).<ref name=naivedya1 /> Panyarams include laddu, [[Vada (food)|vada]], [[Dosa (food)|Dosa]], [[Appam]], [[Jalebi|jilebi]], [[Murukku|muruku]], [[Puran poli|poli]], [[Kheer|payasam]].<ref name=naivedya1 /> Free meals are given daily to the pilgrims. On Thursdays, the Tiruppavada seva is conducted, where huge quantity of pulihora is offered to Venkateswara by heaping up into a pyramidal shape in Tirummani mandapam (ghanta mandapam).<ref name=naivedya1>{{cite book |title=The Crown Divine: Diamond Crown Souvenir, December 20, 1985 |date=1985 |publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams |pages=42, 43 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vl7kAAAAMAAJ&q=Tiruppavada+seva |access-date=23 September 2019 |language=en}}</ref>
 
===Darshan===
To manage the huge number of Devotees visiting the temple, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam constructed two Vaikuntam Queue Complexes: one in the year 1983 and the other in the year 2000. Vaikuntam Queue complexes have rooms where Devotees can sit and wait until their turn for Darshan. According to tradition, it is important for a devotee to have darshan of Bhuvaraha swamy temple lying on the northern banks of Swami Pushkarini before having Darshan of Venkateswara in the main temple.<ref name=darshan1>{{cite web|url = http://www.tirumala.org/Varaha_TempleLegend.aspx|title = Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple}}</ref>
 
Recently, the administration introduced a separate queue for pedestrian pilgrims. Free but limited number of biometric tokens are issued for the pilgrims to access this special queue. Tokens are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. The pilgrims can worship [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]] on the allotted time slots issued in the token. There are two entry points for the foot-path pilgrims: Alipiri Mettu and Srivari Mettu. Alipiri Mettu is open round the clock, whereas Srivari Mettu is open from 6am - 6pm.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shukla |first1=G. P |title=Early closure of Srivari Mettu footpath mooted |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/early-closure-of-srivari-mettu-footpath-mooted/article5094927.ece |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=4 September 2013 |language=en-IN}}</ref>
 
{{See also|Vaikuntam Queue Complex}}
 
To manage the large number of visitors, the temple administration has established various darshan types to ensure an orderly and efficient flow of pilgrims.
 
Sarva Darshan (Free Darshan): Sarva Darshan is the general queue available to all devotees free of charge. It is the most common and popular type of darshan. Devotees stand in line for several hours, sometimes even overnight, to have a glimpse of Lord Venkateswara. The waiting time can vary depending on the crowd, festivals, and other factors.<ref>{{Cite web
|title=Free Darshan Tirumala Sarva Darshan
|url=https://tirupatibalajionline.com/free-darshan-tirumala-sarva-darshan/
|website=Tirupati Balaji Online
|access-date=25 May 2023
}}</ref>
 
 
Special Entry Darshan (Seeghra Darshan): Special Entry Darshan is a paid darshan option introduced to reduce the waiting time for devotees. By purchasing a ticket, devotees can have a quicker darshan experience compared to the free darshan queue. The cost and availability of the tickets may vary, and they can be booked online or at designated TTD counters.
 
(The Chandrayan-3 that was successfully launched on 14 July also had the blessings of Shri Tirupati temple. The ISRO scientists had visited the temple with a miniature model of the chandrayan-3 and sought the blessings of the lord.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-15 |title=Tirupati Venkatachalapathy Temple: The shrine that blessed ISRO scientists and Chandrayaan-3 ahead of its launch |url=https://www.news9live.com/knowledge/tirupati-venkatachalapathy-temple-the-shrine-that-blessed-isro-scientists-and-chandrayaan3-ahead-of-its-launch-2214002 |access-date=2023-07-15 |website=News9live |language=en-US}}</ref> )
 
===Hair tonsuring===
Many devotees have their head tonsured as "Mokku", an offering to God. The daily amount of hair collected is over a ton. The hair is collected and is sold internationally creating a substantial profit for the temple.<ref name="rai">{{Cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/07/14/world/a-religious-tangle-over-the-hair-of-pious-hindus.html?pagewanted=all |title=A Religious Tangle Over the Hair of Pious Hindus |author=Saritha Rai |date=14 July 2004 |access-date=26 April 2009 |work=The New York Times}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=7 July 2022 |title=Tirupati Tirumala Temple: তিরুপতির এই মন্দির আপনাকে এনে দেবে জীবনের সব সুখ! বদলে দিতে এই সামান্য জিনিসটা |work=The Bengali Chronicle |url=https://thebengalichronicle.com/devotees-donates-hair-at-tirupati-tirumala-temple-act/ |access-date=10 August 2022 |language=bn}}</ref> As per legend, when Venkateswara was hit on his head by a cowherd, a small portion of his scalp became bald. This was noticed by Neela Devi, a [[Gandharva]] princess. Immediately, she cut a portion of her hair and, with her magic, implanted it on his scalp.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Tarlo|first=Emma|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7B29DwAAQBAJ&q=Venkateswara+Neela+Devi&pg=PT66|title=Entanglement: The Secret Lives of Hair|date=6 October 2016|publisher=Simon and Schuster|isbn=978-1-78074-993-8|page=66|language=en}}</ref> Venkateswara noticed her sacrifice. As hair is a beautiful asset of the female form, he promised her that all his devotees who come to his abode would offer their hair to him, and she would be the recipient of all the hair received. Hence, it is believed that hair offered by the devotees is accepted by Neela Devi. The hill, Neeladri, one of the seven hills, is named after her.{{citation needed|date=May 2022}} Traditionally the barbers employed to do the tonsuring were male and from the [[Nai (caste)|Nayee caste]] and this caused some discrimination and failed to resolve the requests from women that they would like a female barber.<ref name=twitaward/> A protest led by [[Kagganapalli Radha Devi]] overturned the objections and temple agreed to appoint women barbers. Devi was recognised by Andhra Pradesh in 2017 and with an award of the [[Nari Shakti Puraskar]] by the President of India in 2019.<ref name=twitaward>{{Cite tweet|user=MinistryWCD|date=8 March 2019|title=Ms. Kagganapalli Radha Devi - #NariShakti Puraskar 2018 Awardee in Individual category|number=1104006969143132160|access-date=7 January 2021}}</ref>
 
===Hundi (donation pot)===
As per legend, it is believed that Srinivasa had to make arrangements for his wedding. [[Kubera]] credited money to Venkateswara (a form of the god Vishnu) for his marriage with Padmavathi. Srinivasa sought a loan of one crore and 11.4&nbsp;million (11,400,000) coins of gold from Kubera and had [[Vishvakarma]], the divine architect, create heavenly surroundings in the Seshadri hills. Together, Srinivasa and Padmavathi lived for all eternity while Goddess Lakshmi, understanding the commitments of Vishnu, chose to live in his heart forever.{{citation needed|date=December 2020}} In remembrance of this, devotees go to Tirupati to donate money in Venkateswara's hundi (donation pot) so that he can pay it back to Kubera. The hundi collections go as high as 22.5&nbsp;million INR a day.<ref name="ndtv" /><ref>{{cite news |agency=PTI |date=12 February 2011 |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-02-12/india/28543646_1_ttd-famous-lord-venkateswara-temple-idle-gold| title=TTD again deposits 1,175 KG gold with SBI |access-date=13 September 2007 |work=The Times of India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105194711/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-02-12/india/28543646_1_ttd-famous-lord-venkateswara-temple-idle-gold |archive-date=5 November 2012}}</ref>
 
===Thulabaram===
In the Thulabaram ritual, a devotee sits on a pan of a [[Weighing scale|weighing balance]] and the other pan is filled with materials greater than the weight of the devotee. Devotees usually offer sugar, jaggery, tulsi leaves, banana, gold, coins. This is mostly performed with newborn babies or children.<ref name=thulabharam>{{cite book | title = My Amazing Life: Journey through Success| publisher = Partridge Publishing Singapore | year = 2013 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=rTVABAAAQBAJ&q=thulabharam+at+tirumala&pg=PT296| isbn = 9781482894905 }}</ref>
 
==Festivals==
[[File:TirumalaFunction.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Elephants marching during a festival at Tirumala]]
In the Venkateswara Temple over 433 festivals are being observed in 365 days of a year suiting the title "Nitya Kalyanam Paccha Toranam" where every day is a festival.<ref>{{cite web|title=Tirumala- The Paradise of Festivals|url=http://news.tirumala.org/tirumala-the-paradise-of-festivals/|access-date=7 June 2015}}</ref>
 
=== Sri Venkateshwara Brahmotsavams ===
[[Srivari Brahmotsavam|Sri Venkateswara Brahmotsavams]], a nine-day event, which is celebrated every year during month of October, is the major event of Venkateswara Temple. During brahmotsavams the processional deity [[Malayappa swami|Malayappa]] along with his consorts SriDevi and BhuDevi, is taken in a procession in four mada streets around the temple on different vahanams. Vahanams include Dwajarohanam, Pedda Sesha Vahanam, Chinna Sesha Vahanam, Hamsa Vahanam, Simha Vahanam, Muthaypu pandiri Vahanam, Kalpavriksha Vahanam, Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam, Mohini Avataram, Garuda Vahanam, Hanumantha Vahanam, Swarna Rathotsavam (Golden Chariot), Gajavahanam, Rathotsavam (Chariot), Ashwa Vahanam, and Chakra Snanam. During Brahmotsavams, the temple will witness lakhs of devotees particularly on Garuda vahanam.
 
=== Vaikunta Ekadasi ===
[[Vaikunta Ekadasi]], the day on which it is believed that Vaikunta Dwarams will be opened and the most important Vasihnavite festival, is celebrated with grandeur in Tirumala. The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple will be flooded with devotees on a single day with numbers reaching up to 150,000, to have a darshan of [[Venkateswara]] through special entrance which encircles inner sanctum called "Vaikunta Dwaram".<ref>{{cite news|title=Pilgrims throng Tirumala |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/tirumala-reels-under-pilgrim-rush/article6742380.ece|access-date=21 June 2015|newspaper=The Hindu|date=January 2015|last1=Shukla|first1=G. P.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Pilgrims throng Tirumala |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/450956/15-lakh-converge-tirumala-vaikuntha.html|publisher=Deccan Herrald|access-date=21 June 2015|date=January 2015}}</ref>
 
=== Rathasapthami ===
[[Ratha Saptami#In Tirumala|Rathasapthami]] is another festival, celebrated during February, when Venkateswara's processional deity ([[Malayappa swami|Malayappa]]) is taken in a procession around the temple on seven different [[vahana]]ms starting from early morning to late night.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.geocities.com/suman_malepati/rathasaptami.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091027133227/http://www.geocities.com/suman_malepati/rathasaptami.html | archive-date = 27 October 2009 | title = Rathasapthami photos}}</ref>
 
 
 
Other annual festivals include [[Rama Navami]], [[Janmashtami]], [[Ugadi]], Teppotsavam (Float Festival), Sri Padmavati Parinayotsavams, Pushpa yagam, Pushpa pallaki, Vasanthotsavam (spring festival) conducted in March–April, were celebrated with great splendor.
 
==Songs and hymns==
[[Suprabhatam#Venkateshwara Suprabhatam|Venkateswara Suprabhatam]] is the first and pre-dawn seva performed to [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]] at Sayana Mandapam inside sanctum sanctorum of Tirumala Temple. 'Suprabhatam' is a Sanskrit term which literally means 'Good Morning' and is meant to wake up the deity from His celestial sleep.<ref name=suprabhatham>{{cite book |last=V.K. |first=Subramanian |title=Sacred Songs of India, Volume 10 |publisher=Abhinav publications |page=59 |isbn=81-7017-444-9|year=1996 }}</ref><ref name=song>{{cite web|url = http://www.tirumala.org/Suprabhatam.aspx|publisher= Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams|title =Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams-Suprabhatam|access-date=29 July 2015}}</ref> Venkateswara Suprabhatam hymns were composed by [[Prathivadhi Bhayankaram Annangaracharya]] during 13th century and consists of 70 slokas in four parts including Suprabhatam(29), Stotram(11), Prapatti(14) and Mangalasasanam(16).<ref name=song/><ref name=suprabhatham /> The thirteenth sloka of Venkateswara Suprabhatam is as follows:<ref name=suprabhatham />
<blockquote>
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<div class="center">
[[Devanagari]]<br/>
श्रीमन्नभीष्ट-वरदाखिललोक-बन्धो <br/>
श्रीश्रीनिवास-जगदेकदयैकसिन्धो । <br/>
श्रीदेवतागृहभुजान्तर-दिव्यमूर्ते <br/>
श्रीवेङ्कटाचलपते तव सुप्रभातम् ॥ <br/>
</div>
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<div class="center">
[[Telugu script]]<br/>
శ్రీమన్నాభీష్ట -వరదఖిలలోక -బంధో  <br/>
శ్రీ శ్రీనివాస-జగదేకదయైకసింధో | <br/>
శ్రీదేవతాగృహభుజాన్తర-దివ్యమూర్తే <br/>
శ్రీవెంకటాచలపతే  తవ సుప్రభాతం|| <br/>
</div>
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<div class="center">
[[IAST]]<br/>
śrīmannabhīṣṭavaradākhilalokabandho <br/>
śrīśrīnivāsajagadekadayaikasindho । <br/>
śrīdevatāgṛhabhujāntaradivyamūrte <br/>
śrīveṅkaṭācalapate tava suprabhātam ॥ <br/>
</div>
{{col-end}}
{{Cquote|One with Lakshmi! One who grants boons! Friend of all the worlds! Abode of Sri Lakshmi! The matchless ocean of compassion! One having a charming form on account of the chest which is the abode of Sri Lakshmi! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee. ॥ 13 ॥}}
</blockquote>
[[Annamacharya|Tallapaka Annamacharya]] (Annamayya), the poet saint<ref name=annam1>{{cite book | title =Poet Saints of India| publisher = Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd | year = 1996 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=zMvlDsnEgRoC&q=annamacharya&pg=PA145| isbn = 9788120718838 }}</ref> of 14th century, one of the greatest Telugu poets and a great devotee of Venkateswara, had sung 32000 songs in praise of Venkateswara.<ref name=annam3>{{cite book | title = 101 Mystics of India| publisher = Abhinav Publications | year = 2006 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=KPPWvkKXwCwC&q=annamacharya&pg=PA97| isbn = 9788170174714 }}</ref><ref name=annam1 /> All his songs which are in Telugu and Sanskrit, are referred to as Sankirtanas and are classified as Sringara Sankirtanalu and Adhyatma Sankirtanalu.<ref name=annam1 />
 
==The Seven Hills==
The temple is located on seven hills.<ref name=svutsav1>{{cite book | title = Srivari Brahmotsavam| work = The Hindu | year = 1975 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=FXZMAgAAQBAJ&q=tirupati+brahmotsavams+the+hindu&pg=PA26}}</ref> The presiding deity is also referred to as Sapthagirisha<ref name=svutsav1 /> or Lord of Seven hills.<ref>{{cite book | title = Encyclopaedia of Tourism Resources in India, Volume 2| publisher = Kalpaz publications | year = 2001 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=nxtnsT8CdZ4C&q=tirumala+seven+hills&pg=PA45| isbn = 9788178350189 }}</ref> It is believed that seven hills, also referred to as Saptagiri, represent the seven hoods of Adisesha. The seven hills are as follows:<ref name=svutsav1 />
 
[[File:Thirumala Hanuman.jpg|thumb|right|A statue of [[Hanuman]] in prayer pose near Alipiri gate in Tirumala]]
*Vrushabhadri—Hill of [[Vrishabasura]], who was killed by Srinivasa
*Anjanadri—Hill of [[Hanuman]].
*Neeladri—Hill of Neela Devi
*Garudadri or Garudachalam—Hill of [[Garuda]], the vahana of Vishnu
*Seshadri or Seshachalam—Hill of [[Sesha]], the [[dasa]] of Vishnu
*Narayanadri—Hill of Narayana. Srivari Padalu (footprints of Venkateswara) are located here
*[[Venkata (hill)|Venkatadri]]—Hill of Venkateswara
 
==Subshrines==
{{more citations needed|section|date=March 2023}}
 
===Varadaraja Temple===
 
There is a small shrine dedicated to Varadaraja located in Vimana-pradakshinam, towards left of Vendivakili (silver entrance) while entering temple.<ref name=varada1>{{cite book|title=Growth and development of Tirumala-Tirupati as a dimension of Indian civilization|publisher=Anthropological Survey of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Dept. of Culture, Govt. of India|url=https://archive.org/details/growthdevelopmen00naid|quote=Varadaraja.|access-date=24 September 2019|last1 = Naidu|first1 = Thalapaneni Subramanyam|year = 1990}}</ref> It is not known when this deity was installed. The stone deity<ref name=varada1 /> is sitting posture facing west.
 
===Yoga Narasimha Temple===
 
A shrine is dedicated to Narasimha in North-east corner of the Vimana-Pradakshina.<ref name=yoga1>{{cite book|title=Growth and development of Tirumala-Tirupati as a dimension of Indian civilization|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_fi1AAAAIAAJ&q=yoga+narasimha|access-date=24 September 2019|last1 = Naidu|first1 = Thalapaneni Subramanyam|year = 1990}}</ref> {{Citation needed span|text=The shrine is said to have been built between 1330 A.D. – 1360 A.D.|date=December 2020}} The Yoga-Narasimha is seen sitting in cross-legged posture bound by yoga patta and holding Shankha and chakra in upper two hands and two lower hands in yoga mudra.<ref name=yoga1 />
 
===Garuthmantha Temple===
 
A small shrine dedicated to Garuda the vehicle of Venkateswara is situated exactly opposite to the Bangaruvakili (Golden Entrance) of [[Jaya-Vijaya]]. This sub-shrine is part of Garudamandapam. The Garuthmantha deity is six feet tall and faces west looking towards Venkateswara inside Garbhagriha.
 
===Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple===
 
[[Varahaswamy Temple, Tirumala|Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple]] is the temple dedicated to Varaha an incarnation of Vishnu. This temple is believed to be older than Venkateswara Temple. The temple lies on the Northern Banks of Swami Pushkarini. As per tradition, at first [[Naivedya]]m will be offered to Bhuvaraha Swamy before offering it to Venkateswara in main Temple. And also as per tradition, devotees should have the darshan of Bhuvaraha swamy before Venkateswara.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2016-09-03 |title=‘Varaha jayanti’ today |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/ |access-date=2023-07-09 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
 
===Bedi-Anjaneya Temple===
 
Bedi-Anjaneya Temple is the sub-shrine dedicated to [[Hanuman]]. The temple lies exactly opposite to the Mahadwaram near Akhilandam (place where coconuts are offered). The deity in this temple has both of his hands handcuffed ([[Telugu Language]]:Bedilu).
 
===Vakulamatha Sannidhi===
 
[[Vakula Devi|Vakulamatha]] is the mother of Venkateswara. There is statue dedicated to her in the main temple just ahead of Varadaraja shrine. The deity is in sitting posture. As per legend, she supervises the preparation of food that is to be offered to her son. For this reason a hole is made to the wall which separates Vakulamatha sannidhi and Srivari potu(Kitchen).
 
===Kubera Sannidi===
 
There is a sub-shrine dedicated to Kubera within the Vimanapradakshina. The deity lies to the right side of Garbhagriha and faces south towards preciding deity.
 
===Ramanuja Shrine===
 
The Shrine of [[Ramanuja|Sri Ramanuja]] is located adjacent to the northern corridor of the Vimana Pradakshinam. It is also known as the Bhashyakara Sannidhi. The shrine was built around in the 13th century A.D.
 
==Notable devotees==
 
[[Ramanuja]] (1017–1137)<ref name=ramanuja>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=25yC2ePhbXEC&q=Ramanuja+born+year&pg=PA160 |title=Philosophers and Religious Leaders – Google Books |isbn=9781573561525 |access-date=17 June 2013|last1=von Dehsen |first1=Christian D. |last2=Harris |first2=Scott L. |year=1999 }}</ref> the most important [[Acharya]] of [[Sri Vaishnavism]].<ref name=ramanuja /> was responsible for managing the worshipping procedures and other affairs of the Venkateswara temple. He is credited for gifting the holy conch and the discus, the weapons of [[Vishnu]] during his visit. So he is considered as 'Acharya'(Guru or teacher) to the himself.<ref>{{cite book|title=Srivari Brahmotsavam: A celestial spectacle on earth|author=Siddharth Varadarajan|publisher=Kasturi and Sons Ltd, 2013|page=68}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Followers of Krishna: Yadavas of India|author=S. D. S. Yadava|publisher=Lancer Publishers, 2006 - Ahirs - 185 pages|page=99}}</ref> He established the Pedda Jeeyar Matam. He has a sannidhi(shrine) inside the temple which was built by Sri AnanthALwAn.
 
[[File:Annamacharya.jpg|thumb|Statue of Pada-kavita Pitaamaha, [[Annamacharya|Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya]] (or Annamayya) - official songmaster of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple]]
[[Annamacharya|Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya]] (or Annamayya) (22 May 1408 – 4 April 1503) was the official songmaster of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, and a [[Telugu people|Telugu]] composer who composed around 36000 keertanas,<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/s-p-sailaja-keeps-audience-spellbound/article2940784.ece?| title=S. P. Sailaja keeps audience spellbound |newspaper=The Hindu News|date=28 February 2012|access-date=2 March 2013}}</ref> many of which were in praise of Venkateswara, the presiding deity of the temple.
 
[[Hathiram Bhavaji]] was a saint from [[Ayodhya]] who visited [[Tirumala]] around 1500 CE<ref name="Sri Venkateswara by Shantha">{{cite book|last1=Shantha|first1=Nair|title=Sri Venkateswara: Lord Balaji and his holy abode of Thirupati|date=2013|publisher=Jaico Publishing House|location=Mumbai|isbn=978-81-8495-445-6|page=12|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CY9eAAAAQBAJ&q=Hathiram+Bhavaji&pg=PT84|access-date=26 September 2016}}</ref> on a pilgrimage and became a devotee of [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]].<ref name="speakingtree">{{cite web|last1=Ramachandra Pai|first1=N. A.|title=Hathiram Baba|url=http://www.speakingtree.in/blog/hathiram-baba|website=speakingtree.in|publisher=Speeking Tree|access-date=26 September 2016}}</ref><ref name="panditbooking">{{cite web|last1=Team|first1=panditbooking|title=The Story of Lord Balaji's favorite devotee Hathiramji Baba and the name of Balaji to the Lord of Tirupati|url=http://spiritual.panditbooking.com/hathiramji-baba/|website=spiritual.panditbooking.com|publisher=Panditbooking|access-date=26 September 2016}}</ref>
 
==Religious significance==
 
The temple is considered one of the eight ''Swayambhu Kshetras'' of Vishnu where presiding deity is believed to have manifested on its own. Seven other temples in the line are [[Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple]], [[Bhu Varaha Swamy temple]], and [[Vanamamalai Perumal Temple]] in [[South India]] and [[Muktinath|Saligrama]] in [[Nepal]], [[Naimisaranya]], [[Pushkar]] and [[Badrinath Temple]] in [[North India]].<ref name=hindu>{{cite news|title=Symbolising religious unity|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/religion/symbolising-religious-unity/article3404308.ece|work=The Hindu|last=S.|first=Prabhu|date=10 May 2012|access-date=13 October 2014}}</ref>
 
The temple is revered by [[Alvars]] in ''[[Nalayira Divya Prabandham|Divya Prabandham]]''. The temple is classified as a ''[[Divyadesam]]'', one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in these books. The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas. In these epics, Venkateswara is described as the great bestower of boons. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the at Tirumala.
 
==Nearby temples==
{{main|List of Hindu temples in Tirupati}}
There are many ancient temples nearby [[Tirumala]]. [[Padmavathi Temple, Tiruchanur|Sri Padamavathi Temple]] is temple dedicated to [[Alamelu|Padmavathi]], the wife of [[Venkateswara|Venkateswara]], situated at [[Tiruchanur]] which is 5&nbsp;km from [[Tirupati]]. [[Srikalahasti Temple|Srikalahasteeswara Temple]] is the temple dedicated to [[Shiva]] which represents ''Vayu'' (air) form of elements of Nature, is situated at [[Srikalahasti]] which is 38&nbsp;km from Tirupati. [[Vinayaka Temple, Kanipakam|Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple]], situated at [[Kanipakam]] town, is a 10th-century Temple dedicated to [[Vinayaka]] at 75&nbsp;km from Tirupati. Other than these, temples like Govindaraja Temple, Kalyana Venkateswara Temple(Srinivasa Mangapuram), [[Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple|Kodandarama Temple]], [[Kapila Theertham]] are situated within the Tirupati city.
 
==See also==
* [[Balaji Temple, Ketkawla]]
* [[Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Yadadri]]
* [[Bruce's Code]]
* [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]]
* [[List of temples under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]]
 
==Notes==
{{Reflist}}
 
==References==
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |title=A History of the Holy Shrine of Sri Venkatesa in Tirupati |author=S. Krishnasvami Aiyangar |author-link= S. Krishnaswami Aiyangar |publisher= Ananda Press, Madras |year=1939|url=https://archive.org/stream/historyoftirupat035504mbp#page/n5/mode/2up }}
* {{cite web|title=Tirumala Temple History|publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams|url=http://www.tirumala.org/TTDTempleHistory.aspx|ref={{sfnref|Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams}}|access-date=27 August 2015}}
* {{cite web|title=Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple|publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams|url=http://www.tirumala.org/Varaha_TempleLegend.aspx|ref={{sfnref|Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams}}|access-date=27 August 2015}}
* {{cite web|title=Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple|publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams|url=http://www.tirumala.org/Anjaneya_TempleLegend.aspx|ref={{sfnref|Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams}}|access-date=27 August 2015}}
* {{cite book |title=Feminism and World Religions |publisher=SUNY Press |date=1999 |page=48 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=OGxL4YCX4AYC&pg=PA48|isbn= 9780791440230}}
* {{cite news |last=Neelima |first=P |date=22 September 2009 |title=Gold-coat-to-hide-Tirumala-carvings |work=[[The Times of India]] |url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Gold-coat-to-hide-Tirumala-carvings/articleshow/5039959.cms}}
{{refend}}
 
==External links==
 
 
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* [https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/book/the-skanda-purana/d/doc370679.html Veṅkaṭācala-māhātmya, Skanda Purana]
* {{Official website|http://www.tirumala.org}}
{{Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala}}
{{Vishnu temples}}
{{Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh}}
{{Tirupati topics}}
{{Authority control}}
 
[[Category:3rd-century establishments]]
[[Category:3rd-century establishments in India]]
[[Category:Tirupati]]
[[Category:Tirumala Venkateswara Temple|*]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
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[[Category:Vaishnavism]]
[[Category:Vishnu temples]]
[[Category:Buildings and structures in Tirupati]]
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