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Indian Spirituality => Stories from Ancient India => Topic started by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 08:35:08 AM

Title: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 08:35:08 AM
Venkateshwara  is another form of Lord Vishnu who is the most popular deity among GSBs in Kerala. He is also known as Venkatachalapathi or Venkataramana or Tirumal devar or Varadaraja or Srinivasa or Balaji or Bithala. He has a dark complexion and four hands. In his two upper hands he holds a discus (a symbol of power) and a conchs hell (a symbol of existence). With his lower hands extended downward he asks devotees to have faith and surrender to him for protection. The supreme temple of Venkateswara is at Tirupati and every GSB wants to visit this temple at least once in life.

The temple town of Tirupati is situated at the foot of Tirumala hills in the Chandragiri Taluka of the Chittor district in Andhra Pradesh. The sacred spot on the hill about 2,800 feet above sea level is known as Tirumala, the abode of Lord Venkateswara. The hill forms part of the Eastern Ghats and is also known as Venkatachala and Seshachala. It is said that the Eastern Ghats on this side along with their curves, heights and falls resemble the serpent Adisesha and that the seven hills of Tirupati are its seven heads and Ahobalam where Lord Narasimha murthy is worshipped, representing the centre of Adisesha, and Srisailam representing the tail end of Adisesha. That is why Tirumala is called Seshachala. According to the legends, this has been a sacred place in all the four yugas, and was known as Vrishabhachala in the Krithayuga, Anjanachala in the Tretayuga, Seshachala in the Dwaparayuga and Venkatachala in the present Kaliyuga.

In this temple, unlike other Vishnu temples, we find no minor shrines or idols of Vaishnava saints. Apart from the Lord Venkateswara temple, the other important places at Tirumala and Swami pushkarini, Papavinasam and Akasaganga waterfalls, Varahaswamy temple, and Shila Toranam a very ancient rock formation supposed to be over 10,000 years old.

Legend of Lord Venkateswara


http://www.tirumala.org/opage2.html
(for story of srinivasa kalyanam)

Once some rishis headed by Kasyapa began to perform a sacrifice on the banks of the Ganges. Sage Narada visited them and asked them why they were performing the sacrifice and who would be pleased by it. Not being able to answer the question, the rishis approached Sage Bhrigu. To reach a solution after a direct ascertainment of reality, Sage Bhrigu first went to Satyaloka, the abode of Lord Brahma. At Satyaloka, he found Lord Brahma, reciting the four Vedas in praise of Lord Narayana, with each of his four heads, and attended upon by Saraswati. Lord Brahma did not take notice of Bhrigu offering obeisance. Concluding that Lord Brahma was unfit for worship, Bhrigu left Satyaloka for Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva. At Kailasa, Bhrigu found Lord Siva spending his time pleasantly with Parvati and not noticing his presence. Parvati drew the attention of Siva to the presence of the sage. Lord Siva was furious at Bhrigu's intrusion and tried to destroy him. The sage cursed Lord Siva and left for Vaikuntam.

At Vaikuntam, Lord Vishnu was reposing on Adisesha with Sri Mahalakshmi in service at His feet. Finding that Lord Vishnu also did not notice him, the sage was infuriated and kicked the Lord on His chest, the place where Mahalakshmi resides. At once, Lord Vishnu hastened to apologise to the angry sage and pressed his feet to allay the pain caused to Bhrigu's leg. In doing so the Lord removed the eye in the foot of the sage, stripping of his special powers.Thereupon, the sage concluded that Lord Vishnu was the most supreme of the trimurthis and told the rishis the same.

Sri Mahalakshmi was angered by the action of her Lord in apologising to Bhrigu who committed an offence. Out of anger and anguish she left Vaikuntha and resided in Karavirapur now known as Kolhapur. After the departure of Mahalakshmi, a forlorn Lord Vishnu left Vaikuntam and took abode in an ant-hill under a tamarind tree, beside a pushkarini on the Venkata Hill, meditating for the return of Lakshmi, without food or sleep. This was the place where Lord took the form of Varaha to rescue Mother Earth form the deep ocean.

aking pity on Lord Vishnu, Brahma and Maheshwara decided to assume the forms of a cow and its calf to serve Him. Surya, the Sun God informed Mahalakshmi of this and requested her to assume the form of a cowherdess and sell the cow and calf to the king of the Chola country. The king of the Chola country bought the cow and its calf and sent them to graze on the Venkata Hill along with his herd of cattle. Discovering Lord Vishnu on the ant-hill, the cow provided its milk, and thus fed the Lord. Meanwhile, at the palace, the cow was not yielding any milk, for which the Chola Queen chastised the cowherd severely. To find out the cause of lack of milk, the cowherd followed the cow, hid himself behind a bush and discovered the cow emptying her udder over the ant-hill. Incensed over the conduct of the cow, the cowherd aimed a blow with his axe on the head of the cow. However, Lord Vishnu rose from the ant-hill to receive the blow and save the cow. When the cowherd saw the Lord bleed at the blow of his axe, he fell down and died of shock.

The cow returned, bellowing in fright and with blood stains all over her body, to the Chola King. To find out the cause of the cow's terror, the King followed her to the scene of the incident.
 The King found the cowherd lying dead on the ground near the ant-hill. While he stood wondering how it had happened, Lord Vishnu rose from the ant-hill and cursed the King saying that he would become an Asura because of the fault of his servant. The King pleaded innocence, and the Lord blessed him by saying that he will be reborn as Akasa Raja and that the curse would end when the Lord will be adorned with a crown presented by Akasa Raja at the time of His marriage with Padmavati. With these words Lord turned into stone form.

Thereafter, Lord Vishnu in the name of Srinivasa, decided to stay in Varaha Kshetra, and requested Sri Varahaswami to grant Him a site for His stay. His request being readily granted, Srinivasa ordained that a pilgrimage to His shrine would not be complete unless it is preceded by a bath in the Pushkarini and darshan of Sri Varahaswami, and that puja and naivedyam should be offered to Sri Varaha swami first. Vishnu built a hermitage and lived there, attended to by Vakuladevi who looked after him like a mother.

Yasoda Reborn : Yesoda brought up Sri Krishna, the son of Devaki, in his early years. However, Yasoda was not blessed to witness the marriage of Sri Krishna with Rukmini and she felt very sad. Sri Krishna promised to fulfil her desire in her next birth as Vakuladevi in his next incarnation as Srinivasa. In Rukmini's next birth as Vakuladevi, she was serving Lord Varahaswami when He sent her to serve Srinivasa.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 08:36:59 AM
Sometime later, a King named Akasa Raja who belonged to the Lunar race was ruling over Thondamandalam. Akasa Raja had no heirs, and therefore, he wanted to perform a sacrifice. As part of the sacrifice, he was ploughing the fields when his plough turned up a lotus in the ground. On examining the lotus, the King found a female child in it.  The king was happy to find a child even before he performed a sacrifice and carried it to his place and gave it to his Queen to tend it. At that time he heard an aerial voice which said "O King, tend it as your child and fortune will befall you". As she was found in a lotus, the king named her Padmavati. Princess Padmavati grew up into a beautiful maiden and was attended by a host of maids.

Padmavathi's origin : In olden times, Lakshmi, in the form of Vedavati, was staying in an ashram  in the forests. At that time, Ravana, the lord of Lanka tried to tempt her. In anger, Vedavati cursed him saying that she would bring about his death. To show how true her words were, Vedavati walked into the fire, but Agni, the Fire God rescued her. He took Vedavati to his house and entrusted her to his wife's care. When Ravana was about to carry away Sita from Panchavati, in the absence of Rama and Lakshmana, Agni appeared and offered Vedavati to Ravana as the real Sita who was kept with him by Rama to evade Ravana. Ravana was tricked into thinking that Vedavati was the real Sita.

Ravana took Vedavati to Lanka thinking she was the real Sita, while Agni took Sita to his house and asked his wife Swahadevi to look after her. After the destruction of Ravana, Vedavati entered the fire when rejected by Rama. Then, Agni, offered the real Sita to Rama. Rama then questioned her as to who the other lady by her side was, Sita informed Rama that the lady was Vedavati who endured Ravana's torture for ten months in Lanka for her sake. Sita requested Rama to accept Vedavati also as his spouse. But Rama declined her request saying that he believed in having only one wife during his life time. However, He promised to wed her in her next birth as Padmavati, born as the daughter of Akasa Raja, when Rama himself would take the form of Srinivasa.

One day, Lord Srinivasa, who was hunting, chased a wild elephant in the forests surrounding the hills. In the elephant's pursuit, the Lord was led into a garden, where Princess Padmavati and her maids were picking flowers. The sight of the elephant frightened the Princess and her maids. But the elephant immediately turned around, saluted the Lord and disappeared into the forest. Lord Srinivasa, who was following on horse back, and saw the frightened maidens. However, He was repulsed with stones thrown at Him by the maids.  He returned to the hills in haste, leaving His horse behind. Vakuladevi found him lying on his bed, not interested in anything. The Lord informed her that unless he married Princess Padmavati. The Lord then narrated the story of her (Padmavati’s) previous birth and his promise to wed her.   After listening to Srinivasa's story of how he had promised to marry Vedavati in her next birth as Padmavati, Vakuladevi realised that Srinivasa would not be happy unless he married Padmavati. She offered to go to Akasa Raja and his Queen and arrange for the marriage. On the way she met the maid-servants of Padmavati returning from a Siva Temple. She learnt from them that Padmavati was also pining for Srinivasa. Vakuladevi went along with the maid servants to the Queen.

Meanwhile, Akasa Raja and his queen Dharanidevi were anxious about the health of their daughter, Padmavathi. They learnt about Padmavathi's love for Srinivasa of Venkata Hill. Akasa Raja consulted Brihaspati about the marriage and was informed that the marriage was in the best interest of both the parties. Kubera lent money to Lord Srinivasa to meet the expenses of the marriage. Lord Srinivasa, along with his consorts and Lord Brahma and Lord Siva started the journey to the residence of Akasa Raja with his vehicle Garuda. At the palace entrance, Lord Srinivasa was received by Akasa Raja with full honours and taken in procession on a mounted elephant to the palace for the marriage. In the presence of all the Devas, Lord Srinivasa wed Princess Padmavati, thus blessing Akasa Raja.

Everyday at Tirupati temple, a kalyana utsavam celebrates the divine union in a celebration that stretches to eternity.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 08:38:56 AM
http://sapthagirisandesha.blogspot.com/2006/09/foreword.html

Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 09:21:54 AM
 History

Now as we know the Avatars of Lord Vishnu, let’s know the Story of Lord Venkateshwara Swamy, who is called as KALIYUGA DAIVAM (the LORD OF KALIYUGA)

The Story:

On the request of Sowanka and other sages, Sootha maharshi narrated them the story of Sri Venkateswara. Sage Narada who will always be moving from one place to another entered Sathya Loka and saluted his parents Barahama and Saraswathi told Brahma that after Krishna Avatar, Sri Hari did not go to Bhooloka again and therefore, it has become a hell, as innocent are teased by the wicked. They therefore decided that time has come when God has to appear again on earth and restore Dharma. Narada descended to Bhooloka and decided that Brighu Maharshi would conduct test as who among Trimurtis will bear the Yagna effect. Accordingly Brighu Maharshi first went to Satyaloka where Brahma was explaining the Vedas to several eminent rishis seated there.

When, Brighu Maharshi occupied the throne without showing any respect and without saluting, Brahma lost his temper and chided Brighu. Brighu got down from the throne and cursed Brahma saying "YOU WILL NOT HAVE ANY TEMPLE IN THE EARTH AND NONE WILL WORSHIP YOU".

Brighu, then went to Kailash where Shiva was in privacy with his wife Parvathi. Enraged Siva took his Trisool to finish Brighu but stopped on the intervention of Parvathi. Brighu in his turn also cursed Siva saying, "YOU WILL BE WORSHIPPED IN THE TEMPLE ON EARTH IN THE SHAPE OF "LINGA" INSTEAD OF YOUR REAL SHAPE", and left to Vaikuntham to request Maha Vishnu to bear the Yagna effects.

Maha Vishnu though aware of the arrival of Brighu pretended to be innocent resting on the Sesha Sayanam and Maha Laxmi sitting near his feet pressing them. Recalling the maltreatment meted out to him at Sathyaloka and Kailash, Brighu rushed towards Maha Vishnu and kicked him on his chest with right foot. Without showing any annoyance, Vishnu pinched the third eye that was embedded in Brighu's right foot with the result, he lost his power and pride. Repented Brighu then explained the purpose of his visit. Sri MahaVishnu promised to receive the benefit of Yagna being conducted by the eminent sages on the banks of Ganga at the appropriate time. Lakshmi who was witnessing all these acts however got angry with her husband especially because, he tended such a rude person who dishonored her by kicking in the chest of Maha Vishnu where she lived. When Lakshmi left Vaikuntham there was no pleasure and pomp. Maha Vishnu became helpless. He ran helter and skelter in search of Lakshmi without food and sleep and atlast reached Tirupati and took shelter in a Valmikam (anthill) at the Adi Varsha's shrine meditating for the return of Lakshmi.

Narada came to know the separation and the dwelling places of Lakshmi, at Kolhapur and of Maha Vishnu at Venkatachalam. Narada as directed by Brahma met her and narrated how Sri Hari is starving for food and much reduced. Worried Lakshmi prayed Brahma and Shiva and the three decided to take the shape of a cow, a calf and a cow-herd woman. As a cow-herd woman Lakshmi sold the cow and the calf to Chola King. In the guise of cow Brahma daily gave rain of milk to Sri Hari and returned home with no drop of milk.

The Chola Queen who desired to feed her child with the milk from the new cow suspected that the cow-herd boy of stealing the milk and ordered him to bring the milk of the new cow at any cost next day. With a fear of severe punishment the cow-herd boy followed the cow and saw at Valmiki it is raining milk through her breast. The cow-herd boy burst into anger and took his axe and tried to hurt the animal. Sri Hari immediately came out of the Valmiki (anthill) and saved the cow and bore that blow on his head and started bleeding profusely. The Chola King seeing the sprinkles of blood on the cow reached Valmiki and after hearing sighing sound from there found Maha Vishnu in a pool of blood. On seeing the Chola King Maha Vishnu got wild and cursed him to become a ghost as he got the wound through his cow-herd. Chola King begged for pardon. Maha Vishnu relented and gave him a boon to reborn in the same family as Akasa Raju. He pitied cow-heard boy and gave him a boon that his generation to have the first Darshan of the Lord in his temple.

Jaya and Vijaya who were the guards at the entrance of Vaikuntham became Harinyaksha and Hiranyakasipu with the curse of Sanakasada nanda and other Sages. Hiranyaksha was very cruel and troubling innocent people. Mahavishnu therefore took the form of white pig (Varaham) and diving into the sea killed Hiranyaksha and brought the earth up which he rolled it as a mat and hid in the Pathala loka.

The foster Mother of Lord Krishna, Yasoda Devi though tended him as a child never witnessed his marriages. Lord Krishna consoled her and promised to create an opportunity in Kaliyuga. Yasoda, therefore was born as Vakuladevi and became a devotee of Varaha Swamy. Sri Hari with a wounded head was wandering in the woods in search of a suitable medicine. On the advice of Brihaspati, the Guru of Devas who met him in the forest, went in search of a fig tree to apply its milk mixing it with the other herbs to the wound and chanced upon to hear Sri Krishna Bhajana and walked towards the cottage crying in pain "mother" "mother". Vakuladevi heard the call, and after fondly enquiring applied the medicine, fed him with some fruits and milk, and named him as Srinivasa. Sri Hari revealed to her his previous birth as Lord Krishna. Overjoyed, she bathed him and took to Varaha Swamy. On his request Varahaswamy gave him 100 sqft of land with a promise that all the pilgrims to Tirupati first visit his Temple, then have Darshan of Sri Venketeswara. The image of Sri Venkateswara is self manifest (Swayambhu) and not prepared by any mortal.

The celebrated temple of Sri Venkateswara stands on a hill named Venkatadri. It is very difficult to determine the date of this temple. Inscriptions found in the temple only refer to its renovation, rebuilding and addition made to the main temple. The earliest inscription found at Tirumala records the birth of Bana Prince named Vijayaditya who ruled during the half of the 9th Century A.D. The first mention of the temple on the hill is to be found in an inscription assignable to 970 A.D. A renovation made in the 13th Century was done as to preclude a view of the original Sanctum. From then onwards the rulers who ruled the place and devoted to the Lord made several gifts and offerings and structural changes whenever necessary.


source:http://www.srimannarayana.com/History1.htm
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 09:37:03 AM

SRI VARI  Murti's features :

HE has long hair, which falls on HIS shoulders. HE has a perfect nose, which is not long or short. HIS mouth is also perfect. HE has beautiful cheeks and ears. If we are allowed to measure HIS chest, we could find it would be between 36 inches and 40 inches and waist in between 24 inches and 27 inches. HE has neck that simulates a conch, and waist, which is like a lion's waist. Both are good qualities, which shows the person's handsome and great personality. HE has four hands. Two are in upward direction. These two hands hold Golden Discus (Sudharshan) and Conch. Actually these two are not formed with the idol of the Supreme Lord. But later were molded with Gold, by HIS devotees. The other two hands are in downward direction. In those the left one (in Katyavalambita Mudra), Kati Hasta, rests on the left thigh with the thumb in upward angular direction. HIS right hand (in Varada Hasta Mudra), Abhaya Hasta, shows the downward direction. This is the specialty of HIM. One will not find in any other God's Murti that the right hand showing downward. HE is the supreme and HE gives all pleasure or any thing we want that we beg HIM which is not harmful to others. This hand has so many meanings. One, it is showing the Vaikuntam. Second, HE is giving all the support in all the ways and clearing our requests. Third, HE is telling that everyone should fall on HIS lotus feet. Fourth, HE is the supreme of all, Master of Universe, everything is below HIM, and no one is above HIM, i.e. HE is Alpha and Omega of the Universe.

On the right side of HIS chest, there lies the impression of HIS consort, Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi and is known as SriVatsam. That impression is there as if SHE is sitting there. There are Impressions showing that HE has sacred thread (Yajgnopavitam), four golden chains falling from HIS neck and BujaKirti's (The ornaments on the shoulders). These are clearly visible. HIS chest is bare and HE has also impression of a two inches wide thread, below HIS waist. HE also has impressions formed from Bow and Arrows Pouch on HIS shoulders. It is clearly showing that HE wore them for a long time. Which is true, HE had them (Kothandam and arrows) constantly on his shoulders in His Sri Rama Avatar. Lord Brahma referred these impressions on both the shoulders extending to the arm pit are due to the constant wearing of bow-string (Vinti Nari) and arrow pouch (Ammula podi). So the Idol of Srinivasa has those. HE has strong legs and lotus feet, with ornaments on HIS ankles. All these are impressions, which are formed on HIS Murti which are clearly visible.

Sri Venkateswara has another scar, which is not formed with the original Idol, but developed later. This has a story, which happened in 11th Century. Sri Ramanujarcharya ordained one of his strong followers Ananthalwar to do flower service (Poolangi seva) daily to the Lord. So Ananthalwar decided to grow a Garden atop of Tirumala Hills near the temple. He took a vow that the entire work would be done by him and his family. So he started working and found that the garden requires a water tank. He started digging the earth for the tank. His wife was helping him by removing the earth and carrying it off in a basket. She was in a stage of advanced pregnancy and was facing the trouble in removing the earth. So watching this service which they are doing in a clear-devoted mind, Lord decided to help her in the work of clearing the earth. He appeared as a servant boy and took the basket from her head and throwed the earth at a far place. After sometime Ananthalwar noticed that the removing of earth was going at a rapid pace, which was impossible for a pregnant lady. Sooner he noticed the servant boy, he got angry, because of his vow that only his family would do the entire work and no one should help them. In that anger he threw the crowbar on the boy. The crowbar hit the boy at his chin and blood oozed and dripped off from his chin. In the evening Ananthalwar went to the Temple to offer worship. He noticed that the Lord's chin got hurt and blood dropping from it. So he realized immediately that the servant boy was none but the Supreme God. So he immediately took a flower and applied on the wound and the bleeding stopped.  The Lord was pleased for his devotion and service and said "Ananthalwar, the wound caused by your crowbar will heal, but it will leave a scar on my chin, like SriVatsam, and to remember this incident pure camphor should be applied daily. And also let the crowbar be displayed at the entrance of the Temple at a height to be seen by all. So pure camphor is pressed on the God's chin every day. We can notice this along with the crowbar, which is displayed at the northern wall near the entrance.

HE is paramapadam, the ultimate, HE is none but Parabrahma who came down to earth to bestow Moksha on us.

The Supreme Lord SrimanNarayana is giving darshan and continuously showing HIS grace in abundance on the devotees as Sri Venkateswara. HE is the Deity of Kaliyuga who is pouring all the pleasures for the devotees. Once we say Narayana with clean mind and soul filled with devotion, HE responds immediately. HE is Bhaktha Sulabha, means responds easily to HIS devotees.

'Narayana' means one who is embodiment of all things and who is in everything. Nara - Atma, Soul which has no birth or death. Ayana - abode in all beings. Sri Ramanuja propounded that the constant chanting of Narayana Ashtakshara Mantram (Om Namo Narayanaya) will lead one to the Paramapadam.

Lord  Narayana and Lord Shiva or not different. Both are one and the same. To make us realize this, Sri Venkateswara’s murti has markings of Cobra on the body and head, Bhujanga Valayam, the girdle of the serpent on the arms. The worship of Him with Bilva leaves during Dhanurmasam as prescribed by Adi Sankaracharya strongly proves that HE is none but Lord Shiva too. HE is also Shakti Rupa, because HE has Simhalalatam in the image, which is the common symbolic in Shakti images. Narayani is one of the names of Shakti. HE manifests HIMSELF to the particular form in which the devotees choose to offer Archa, Meditation. HE is the Ambrosia of Vedas. The Upanishads recognize only one Spirit - Almighty, Infinite, Omniscient, Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Attributeless, Formless, Eternal, Incomprehensible, Self-Existent, the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer of the of the Universe. HE is 'Ananta Rupa' means having multiple images and is also 'Satchidanada Rupa' means image of Existence, Consiousness and Bliss (A mix of Sat, Chit and Ananda).

"I am the ultimate goal and the means", in Bhagavat Gita, Lord said to mankind (Arjuna). Let us fall on HIS lotus feet and get HIS abhayam to cross the Samsara Sagaram (the ocean of Transmigration) and enjoy Ananda Sagaram (the ocean of Bliss). HE is Daya Sagar (the ocean of Mercy). HE gives Moksha (liberation from constantly being born in the form of different living beings - depending upon the Karma phala acquired in previous births, or nothing but mingling with the God), once if we chant one of HIS names or Narayana Mantram (Om Namo Narayanaya/Om Namo Venkatesaya/Om Namo Srinivasaya/Om Namah Sivaya).

The birth as a human being is very rare and precious. Hence one should utilize it by falling on HIS lotus feet and surrender to HIM, hence gaining the realisation of Supreme God.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 09:42:28 AM
For various photos during bramhotsavam

http://www.tirumalaphotos.com/


For lord's original pic which was taken only twice till now. This is the 2nd pic.

http://balaji.sudarshana.org/
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 09:46:51 AM
[youtube=425,350]http://youtube.com/watch?v=CpDipi1Nbtw&feature=related[/youtube]

Few say that 'It is from the Movie that the Tirumala tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) made in 1966 for the sole purpose of propagating Hindu Dharma across the breadth of the Indian Subcontinent - Most of this was shot within the temple but this is NOT the true "Dhruva Bera" as The Lord's main Idol is called. A replica was made using plaster of paris and used for the movie.'

Not sure if it is the lord's main idol as no videos or photos are allowed till now. But it is very very rare to get the opportunity to see his abhishekam like in the video. om sai ram.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 10:14:29 AM
[youtube=425,350]http://youtube.com/watch?v=6vvr6-7H4M0&feature=related[/youtube]

Virtual tirupati darshan. You will feel like being there. Recently a gold well has been made for lord inside the temple. om sai ram.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: Dipika on June 16, 2008, 10:38:55 AM
OMSAIRAM!Tirupati Balaji u called me to Tirupati in 1995,but u forgot to fulfill what i asked u.

i m reminding u .............. :D :D


ALLAH MALIK!

Sai baba let your holy lotus feet be our sole refuge.OMSAIRAM
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 10:58:54 AM
History of Tirumala      

The Pallavas of Kanchipuram (9th century AD) ,Cholas of Tanjore (10 century) , Pandyas of mathura and Vijayanagara pradhans (14th & 15th centuries) were committed devotees of Lord Venkateswara. The statues of Sri Krishna Devaraya and his spouse stand in the premises of the temple. After the decline of Vijayanagara Empire, kings from various states like the king of Mysore and Gadwal, worshiped the lord as pilgrims and gifted various ornaments and valuables to the temple. Raghoji Bhonsle, the Maharastrian commander visited the temple and made a permanent arrangement regarding the regular pujas to be done to the Lord.

In 1843 the temple gave up administrative authority of Venkateswara Temple along with the temples in the village to the head of Hatthimji monastery in Tirumala. Till 1933 the administration of the temple had been wielded by the head of that monastery, Hathiram Mahantha.

In 1933 the Madras government appointed a Commission to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam through a special statutory authority to run the administration of the temple. In 1951 another Hindu Religious and endowment Act was made which felicitated the appointment of an executive officer and Board of trustees and they run the administration. The executive officers of this institution in the South have been maintaining administration.
 Epic Importance of Tirumala Hills      

The venkatam hill is believed to be a part of the celestial mount meru brought to the earth from vaikuntam by garuda (Lord's vehicle),say the puranas.The Hills are said to be a manifestation of Adi Sesha (the cosmic serpent).The Seven hills of the Tirumala are the said to represent the Seven hoods of Adi Sesha.

Many Alvars , Vaishnavacharyas and Saints have praised the Tirumala Hill with great devotion. Tirumala Mambi, a descendent of the great ascetic Narada, spent his whole life in serving the Lord.

References to the tirumala also found in several of Puranas. Tirumala is one of the 108 sacred shrines of the Sri Vaishanava tradition.According to the Puranas, Lord Vishnu stayed on the earth for some time in the Avatar of Swetha Varaham and rose out of pushkarini as Swayambhuva. His spouse Lakshmi Devi appeared in Thirucharnur. This Swwtha Varaha Avatharam was installed in the temple situated to the west of Swamy Pushkarni. The great religious leader Ramanujacharya visited this shrine on a pilgrimage and systematised the process of worship in accordance with the SriVaishnava that continues to date.

 
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 11:01:26 AM
Reaching Tirumala by foot      

Many pilgrims prefer to go on foot from the Tirupati to Tirumala to have the Darshan of the Lord. It is also part of Sankalpam (commitment).

For those who would like to climb the hills to Tirumala to fulfil a vow, there are two well-laid stone footpaths leading to Tirumala. These paths are called sopanamargas. The more ancient of the two sopanamargas which starts from Alipiri at the foot of the hills, is about 11 km in length, and is the commonly-used route. The other sopanamarga from Chandragiri, though only about 6 km in length, is a more difficult route. It is mainly used by the local people and traders.

Several facilities are provided to the piligrims who walk up the hills to Tirumala, by the administration.

    * Free transport of the Pilgrims luggage from the bottom of the hill to the Top.
    * Well cemented steps with hand rails for support.
    * Supply of potable water along the way.
    * Toilets for both ladies and Gents.
    * Well lit path way and security guards to ensure safety of the pilgrims.
    * Small restaurants along the way for refreshments and snacks.

The pilgrims have to get to Alipiri toll gate ,where the steps to the Tirumala begins.This is 4 K.Ms away from the railway station.They can then deposit their luggage at the T.T.D transport office and obtain a receipt.On reaching the top, they can redeem their luggage after producing this receipt. The foot way is 16 Kilometers in distance.It takes roughly between 3 to 4 hours to reach Tirumala by this way.

The natural beauty along the way is breath taking.Though the steps at the start are a bit steep, the rest of the way is quite even and one wouldn't need to strain much.All along the way one can see pilgrims of every age climbing the steps with equal gusto. There are small mandapams along the way where pilgrims can take rest.Though the journey is physically tiring, it is a spiritually satifying one.

Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs two free buses from the Tirupati Railway station to Alipiri, with a frequency of 30 minutes. Pilgrims who intend to walk up the hills to Tirumala can use these buses.

Attached is the shape of 7 hills in the form of lord's face when turned vertical.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 11:02:24 AM
Devotional activities for the Lord      

Tonsure and Tirumala go together. Devotees vow and offer their hair to the Lord - a symbolic sacrifice of the ego. Tonsure is done at Kalyana Katta, a massive four floor building operating round the clock. Fee for tonsure near the cottages is Rs.10/- per head. Tonsure is followed by a holy dip in the Pushkarini and the devotees then proceed to the Temple for darshan.

    * Tonsuring (Getting your head shaved)

      The objective behind tonsuring (shaving one's head for the Lord) is to demonstrate that he/she completely surrenders his/her ego at the feet of the Lord. Pilgrims can have their heads tonsured at the Kalyanakatta (opposite the Annanadanam Complex). There are seventeen sub-centers for tonsuring. Pilgrims can also request to be tonsured at the cottages where they are staying.
    * Walking up the Hills

      Many pilgrims walk up the hills to fulfill vows they have taken, for which Tirumala - Tirupati Devsthanam has constructed a footpath from Alipiri to Tirumala. It takes approximately two and a half hours to walk up the hill.
    * Angapradakshinam

      Angapradakshinam is when pilgrims lie prostrate, and then roll around the temple, chanting the Lord's name. The objective is to show their devotion to the Lord, and thank Him for protecting them. It is performed in the Vimana Pradakshinam, one of the pathways around the temple.

      Pilgrims who wish to undertake the Angapradakshinam have to take a dip in the Swami Pushkarini, and reach the Main Temple Complex by 0200 hrs (through a special queue that starts from the PPC Sheds).

      Angapradakshinam is generally restricted to the weekends (Saturdays and Sundays). It is also restricted when there is heavy in flux of pilgrims.
    * Tulabharam

      Tulabharam is offering one's weight in coins or other items such as sugar, candy according to one's vows to the Lord. Tulabharam is generally performed for children. Pilgrims can weigh their offerings in the temple complex. The coins can be deposited in the temple hundi and other items can be handed over to the temple authorities present. The queue for Tulabharam is the regular queue that starts from the Vaikuntham Queue Complex or PC Queue Complex.
    * Niluvudopidi

      Niluvudopidi is offering to the Lord the ornaments, etc., that one is wearing when one takes the vow. The objective is to sacrifice one's belongings to the Lord, with the philosophy 'what is mine is the Lord's'.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 16, 2008, 01:05:23 PM
Sri Vaari Prasadam

In  previous days  rice prasadam  was offered  Lord Venkateswara as Naivedyam. It was called as ’Manoharam’. Rice powder and jaggery’s juice was mixed and prasadam was made. There was much patronage from devotees for this prasadam. There was much patronage from devotees for this prasadam.  The preparation of  kondantha (just like hill) laddu started in a funny way. In 1940 the puja , Lord Venkateswara’s Nithya kalyanam started. As per Hindu custom Laddu will be served in marriage lunch / dinner in ever body’s house. As per the custom , Tirupathi Tirumala Devasthanam(TTD) management Laddus were prepared with sugar and offered to Swamy . From 1943 the laddus were offered as prasadam  for those participated in Kalyanothsavam.  The laddus were prepared of cashew, Elachi  etc. The prasadam was distributed once to devotees who visited the temple the temple  on Saturdays. Later the management of the temple felt that it was not fair to distribute the same type of laddus to both participating in Kalyanamahotsavam and for those in Dharma Darsanam. Big size laddus were given to those participated in Kalyanamahotsavam. There was demand from devotees that should be offered for sale Due to this demand sale of laddus started daily. From that time Lord Venkateswara’s laddus are getting unprecedented liking from devotees.  Though there was change in sizes and tastes of laddus no difference in sales is observed. That is the staunch belief of devotees.

Mirasi System in the starting :  In the initial starting for preparation and supervision of laddu prasadams the Mirasi’s system was there.  Those who were preparing laddus in the kitchen (Potu) were called as Gamekar Mirasis.Out of the lot of 51 laddus 11 laddus  were given to Mirasi Brahmin families. TTD management  went to  courts upto supreme court on Mirasi system and after  a long fight succeeded.  Mirasi system was abolished. The total rights on laddus were achieved by TTD.

In the kitchen Prasadams were prepared using fire wood. From 1984 consumption of gas was started . During Mirasi period 200 to 300 people were working. At present the staff of TTD kitchen (Potu) are  only about150 .  Previously only 65000 to 75000 laddus were prepared. This number of laddus was less than half of the demand from devotees.  Another kitchen was started by floating tenders. There also another 65000 to 70000 laddus are prepared and the demand from devotees is met. On  special occasions like UGADI the staff of kitchen (Potu) prepare special laddus and offer to God.  Till now the biggest laddu offered to  Lord Venkateswara was of 32 Kgs weight.

The list of ingredients and the proportion in which they are to be used is called Dittam. six times changes were made in Dittam.  At present the cost of preparation of  each laddu   is 13 Rs.   Though many modern methods were implemented in the speedy and quality preparation of laddus  ,they have not yielded good results. Some old techniques are also still followed.

Problem of storing laddus:   Apart from preparation of laddus ,storage of laddus is a real problem.  As Tirumala is a cold place , the humidity in air is high . Laddu can not be stored for long time. Due to heavy demand laddus are sent to sales counters immediately after preparation.  In the kitchen  of old times built in the temple laddus preparation is going on till now.  This is also causing inconvenience. TTD is studying the feasibility of shifting the kitchen and changes to improve the quality.
Whatever  may be the actions of managing committee of  TTD , people want tasty laddus.  The important responsibility of TTD is to tasty laddu with quality that remains as a sweet memory to Devotees.                 

Laddu, or Ladoo, is one of the most important offering and prasadam given to devotees at the Tirumala Tirupati Lord Venkateswara Temple. Tirupati Laddu is a spherical-shaped sweet made of flour and sugar. In fact, Tirupati and the huge laddus are synonymous. It is a customary duty of a devotee returning from Tirupati Balaji Temple to distribute ‘laddu’ as prasadam to his neighbors, friends and relatives.

Some quick facts about Tirupati Laddu

    * Around 150,000 laddus are made daily.
    * One laddu is given free to each devotee; the number of daily devotees that visit the temple is around 50,000.
    * A devotee can buy extra two laddus – a laddu costs 5 rupees.
    * The revenue from the sale of laddu annually is more than 11 million rupees.

    * Each laddu weighs around 100gms and is huge when compared with the normal laddu found in shops.
    * There is a super huge Tirupati Laddu known as Kalyana Laddu and it weighs around 500gms – ½ a kilogram.
    * Single largest laddu made is said to have weighed 32 kg.

    * The tradition of Tirupati Laddu is nearly 300 years old.
    * It is prepared by special hereditary priests known as archakas in special temple kitchen known as ‘potu’.

    * Ingredients used in Tirupati Laddu are Besan flour (kadalai mavu), Sugar, Cashew nuts, Cardamom, Ghee, Oil, Sugar candy, Raisins and Almonds.

On a day around 5000 kg of Besan flour is used.
Sugar around 10000 kg.
Cashew nuts around 600 kg.
Cardamom 150 kg
Ghee 300 liters
Sugar candy 400 kg
Raisins 540 kg

    * The ingredients are bought at the auction at the Commodities and Spices Exchange in Kochi.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTDs) the administrating body of the temple is planning to patent the Tirupati Laddu to stop counterfeits
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 18, 2008, 09:38:19 AM
108 Names of Lord Venkatesa

Venkatesaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Seshadhri Nilayaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vrushadhrug Gocharaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vishnave Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sadanjana Gireesaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vrushadhri Pathaye Nama Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Meru Puthra Girisaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sarasswamy Tadee Jushe Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kumaara Kalpa Sevyaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vajridhrug Vishayaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Suvarchalaa Suthanyastha Sainaapathya Bharaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namah
Raamaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Padmanabhaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sadaa Vaayu Stutaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Tyakta Vaikuntta Lokaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Girikunja Vihaarine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Harichandana Gothrendhra Swamine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sankha Raajanya Nethraabhja Vishayaaya Sri Venaktesaya Namaha
Vasoo Parichara Thraathre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Krishnaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Abdhi Kanyaa Parishvaktha Vakshase Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Venkataya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sanakaadhi Mahaa Yogi Poojithaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Devajith Pramukha Anantha Daitya Sangha Pranasasine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Svetha Dhveepa Vasan Muktha Poojithaangri Yugaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sesha Parvatha Roopathva Prakaasana Paraaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Saanu Staapita Taarkshyaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Taarkshyachala Nivasine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Maaya Gooda Vimana Venkatesaya Namaha
Garuda Skandha Vaasine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Ananta Sirase Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Ananthakshaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Ananta Charanaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Srisaila Nilayaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Dhaamodaraya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Neelamegha Nibhaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Brahmmadhi Deva Durdarsa Visvaroopaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vaikunttaagatha Saddhema Vimaana Antargataaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Agasthyabhyartitaa Sesha Jana Dhrug Gocharaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sri Vaasudevaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Haraye Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Theertha Panchaka Vaasine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vaamadeva Priyaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Janakeshta Pradhaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Maarkandeya Mahaa Theertha Jaatha Punya Pradhaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vaakpathi Brahmadhathre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Chandra Laavanya Dhayine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Naarayana Nagesaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Brahma Klupthothsavaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sankha Chakra Varaanamra Lasath Karatalaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Dravan Mriga Madhaasaktha Vigrahaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kesavaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Nithya Youvana Moorthaye Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Artithaarta Pradhathre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Visva Teerttha Agha Haarine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Theertaswamy Saras Snatha Janabhishta Pradhayine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kumara Dhaarikaa Vaasas Skandhabheeshta Pradhaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Jaanu Dhagna Samudhbhutha Pothrine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Koorma Moorthaye Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kinnara Dhvandhva Saapaanta Pradaathre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Vibhave Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vaikhaanasa Muni Shreshtta Poojithaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Simhachala Nivasaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sriman Naarayanaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sadhbhakta Neelakanttaarchya Nrusimhaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kumudhaksha Gana Sreshta Sainapatya Pradhaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Durmedha Praanahartre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sridharaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Kshatriyaantaka Raamaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Mathsya Roopaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Paandavaari Praharthre Sri Venkatesaya Nama
Srikaraaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Upatyakta Pradesastha Shankara Dhyaata Moorthaye Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Rukmaabja Saraseekoola Lakshmeekrita Tapasvine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Lasalakshmi Karambhoja Dhattha Kalharaka Sraje Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Saalagraama Nivaasaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sukha Dhrig Gocharaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Naarayana Artitha Asesha Jana Dhrig Gocharaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Mrigayaarasikaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vrishabhasura Haarine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Anjanaa Gothra Pathaye Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Vrishabhaachala Vaasine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Anjanaa Suta Dhaathre Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Maadhaveeya Agha Haarine Sri Venkatesaya Nama Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Priyangu Priya Bhakshyaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Svetha Kola Varaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Neela Dhenu Payo Dhaaraa Seka Dehotbhavaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sankara Priya Mithraaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Chola Puthra Priyaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Sudharminee Suchaitanya Pradhaathre Nama Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Madhu Ghaatine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Krishnaakhya Vipra Vedantha Desikathva Pradhaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Varahachala Naataya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Balabhadraaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Thrivikramaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Mahathe Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Hrisheekesaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Achyuthaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Neeladhri Nilayaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Ksheeraabdhi Naataaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha

Vaikuntaachala Vaasine Sri Venkatesaya Namah
Mukundhaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Ananthaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Virinchaabhyartithaaneetha Soumya Roopaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Suvarna Mukhari Snaatha Manuja Abheeshta Daayine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Halaayudha Jagath Theerttha Samastha Phala Dhaayine Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Govindaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Srinivaasaaya Sri Venkatesaya Namaha
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on June 20, 2008, 05:44:09 AM
Sri venkatesha suprabatam


Kausalyaa suprajaa raama poorvaa samdhyaa pravartate
Utthishtha nara Saardoola kartavyam daivamaahnikam (Twice)

Utthishthotthishtha govimda utthishtha garuda dhvaja
Utthishta kamalaa kaamtaa trailokyam mamgalam kuru (Twice)


Maata ssamasta jagataam madhukaitabhaareh
Vaksho viharini manohara divya moorte
Sree svaamini Srita jana priya daana seele
Sree vemkatesa dayite tava suprabhaatam

 
Tava suprabhaata maravimda lochane
Bhavatu prasanna mukha camdra mamdale
Vidhi samkaremdra vanitaabhirarcite
Vrsha Saila naatha dayite dayaanidhe

Atryaadi sapta Rshaya ssamupaasya samdhyaam
Aakaasa simdhu kamalaani manoharaani
Aadaaya paada yuga marchayitum prapannaah
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Pamchaana naabjabhava shanmukha vaasavaadyaah
Traivikramaadi caritam vibudhaa stuvamti
Bhaashaapatih pathati vaasara Suddhi maaraat
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Eeshat praphulla saraseeruha naarikela
Phoogadrumaadi sumanohara paalikaanaam
Aavaati mamda manila ssaha divya gamdhaih
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Unmeelya netrayuga muttama pamjarasthaah
Paatraa vasishta kadalee phala paayasaani
Bhuktvaa saleela matha keli Sukaah pathamti
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Tamtree prakarsha madhura svanayaa vipamcyaa
Gaayatyanamta caritam tava naaradopi
Bhaashaa samagrama sakrt kara saara ramyam
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

Bhrmgaavaleecha makaramda rasaanu viddha
Jhamkaara geeta ninadai ssaha sevanaya
Niryaatyupaamta sarasee kamalodarebhyah
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Yosha ganena vara dadhni vimathya maane
Ghoshalayeshu dadhi mamthana teevraghoshaah
Roshaatkalim vidadhate kakubhascha kumbhaah
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Padmesa mitra Satapatra gataali vargaah
Hartum sriyam kuvalayasya nijaamga lakshmyaa
Bheree ninaada miva bibhrati teevra naadam
Seshaadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhaatam

 
Sreemannabheeshta varadaakhila loka bamdho
Sree Sreenivaasa jagadeka dayaika simdho
Sree devataagrha bhujaamtara divya moorte
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Sree svaami pushkarinikaaplava nirmalaamgaah
Sreyorthino hara virimchi sanamda naadyaah
Dvaare vasamti vara vetra hatottamaamgaah
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Sree seshasaila garudaachala vemkataadri
Naaraayanaadri vrshabhaadri vrshaadri mukhyaam
Aakhyaam tvadeeya vasate ranisam vadamti
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

Sevaaparaa Siva suresa krsaanu dharma
Rakshombu naatha pavamaana dhanaadi naathaah
Baddhaamjali pravilasa nija Seersha desaah
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Dhaateeshute vihagaraaja mrgaadhiraaja
Naagaadhiraaja gajaraaja hayaadhiraajaah
Svasvaadhikaara mahimaadika marthayamte
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Sooryemdu bhauma budha vaakpati kaavya Soori
Svarbhaanu ketu divishat parishat pradhaanaah
Tvaddaasa daasa charamaavadhi daasa daasaah
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

Tvatpaada dhooli bharita sphuritottamaamgaah
Svargaapa varga nirapeksha nijaamtaramgaah
Kalpaagamaa kalanayaa kulataam labhamte
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Tvadgopuraagra sikharaani nireekshamaanaah
Svargaapavarga padaveem paramaam srayamtah
Martyaa mnushya bhuvane mati maasrayamte
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Sree bhoomi naayaka dayaadi gunaamrtaabdhe
Devaadi deva jagadeka saranya moorte
Sreemannanamta garudaadibhi rarchitaamghre
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

Sree padmanaabha purushottama vaasudeva
Vaikumtha maadhava janaardana chakrapaane
Sree vatsa chihna saranaagata paarijaata
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Kamdarpa darpa hara sumdara divya moorte
Kaamtaa kuchaamburuha kutmala lola drshte
Kalyaana nirmala gunaakara divya keerte
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Meenaakrte kamatha kola nrsimha varnin
Svaamin parasvatha tapodhana raamachamdra
Seshaamsa raama yadunamdana kalki roopa
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Elaa lavamga ghana saara sugamdhi teertham
Divyam viyat sariti hema ghateshu poornam
Dhrtvaadya vaidika sikhaamanayah prahrshtaa
Tishtamti vemkatapate! Tava suprabhaatam


Bhaasvaanudeti vikachaani saroruhaani
Sampoorayamti ninadaih kakubho vihamgaah
Sree vaishnava ssatata marthita mamgalaaste
Dhaamaasrayamti tava vemkata! Suprabhaatam

Brahmaadaya ssuravara ssamaharshayaste
Samta ssanamdana mukhaa stvatha yogi varyaah
Dhaamaamtike tavahi mamgala vastu hastaah
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

Lakshmee nivaasa niravadya gunaika simdhoh
Samsaara saagara samuttaranaika seto
Vedaamta vedya nija vaibhava bhakta bhogya
Sree vemkataachala pate! Tava suprabhaatam

 
Ittham vrshaachala pate riha suprabhaatam
Ye maanavaah prati dinam pathitum pravrttaah
Teshaam prabhaata samaye smrti ramga bhaajaam
Praj~naam paraartha sulabhaam paramaam prasoote!
 
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on July 28, 2008, 01:21:33 AM
108 Names of Lord Venkatesa/ashtotram

Om Shri Ventakeshaya Namaha
OM Sreenivasaya Namaha
OM Laxmipataye Namaha
OM Anaamayaaya Namaha
OM Amruthamsaya Namaha
OM Jagadvandyaya Namaha
OM Govindaya Namaha
OM Shashvataya Namaha
OM Prabhave Namaha
OM Sheshadrinilayaya Namaha
OM Devaya Namaha
OM Keshavaya Namaha
OM Madhusudhanaya Namaha
OM Amrutaya Namaha
OM Madhavaya Namaha
OM Krishnaya Namaha
OM Sriharaye Namaha
OM Jnanapanjaraya Namaha
OM SreeVatsavakshase Namaha
OM Sarveshaya Namaha
OM Gopalaya Namaha
OM Purushotamaya Namaha
OM Gopeeshwaraya Namaha
OM Parasmyjyotishe Namaha
OM Vaikuntapataye Namaha
OM Avyayaya Namaha
OM Sudhaatanave Namaha
OM Yadavendraya Namaha
OM Nithyayavvanaroopavate Namaha
OM Chaturvedatmakaya Namaha
OM Vishnave Namaha
OM Achutyaya Namaha
OM Padminipriyaya Namaha
OM Dharapataye Namaha
OM Surapatye Namaha
OM Nirmalaya Namaha
OM Devapoojitaya Namaha
OM Chaturboojaya Namaha
OM Chakradaraya Namaha
OM Tridamne Namaha
OM Trigunashrayaya Namaha
OM Nirvikalpaya Namaha
OM Nishkalankaya Namaha
OM Niranthakaya Namaha
OM Niranjanaya Namaha
OM Nirabasaya Namaha
OM Nityatruptaya Namaha
OM Nirgunaya Namaha
OM Nirupadravaya Namaha
OM Gadhaadharaya Namaha
OM Shaarangapanaye Namaha
OM Nandakine Namaha
OM Shankhadarakaya Namaha
OM Anakemurtaye Namaha
OM Avyaktaya Namaha
OM Katihastaya Namaha
OM Varapradaya Namaha
OM Anekatmane Namaha
OM Deenabandhave Namaha
OM Aartalokabhayapradhaya
OM Akasharajavaradhaya Namaha
OM Yogihrutpadmamandhiraya Namaha
OM Dhamodharaya Namaha
OM Karunakaraya Namaha
OM Jagatpalayapapagnaya Namaha
OM Bhakthavatsalaya Namaha
OM Trivikramaya Namaha
OM Shishumaraya Namaha
OM Jatamakutashobhitaya Namaha
OM Shankamadyolasanmanjookinkinyadyakarakandakaya Namaha
OM Neelameghashyamatanave Namaha
OM Bilvapatrarchanapriyaya Namaha
OM Jagatvyapine Namaha
OM Jagatkartre Namaha
OM Jagatsakshine Namaha
OM Jagatpataya Namaha
OM Chintitarthapradaya Namaha
OM Jishnave Namaha
OM Daasharhaaya Namaha
OM Dhasharoopavate Namaha
OM Devakinandanaya Namaha
OM Shauraye Namaha
OM Hayagreevaya Namaha
OM Janardhanaya Namaha
OM Kanyashravanatharejyaya Namaha
OM Peetambharadharaya Namaha
OM Anagaya Namaha
OM Vanamaline Namaha
OM Padmanabhaya Namaha
OM Mrughayasaktamanasaya Namaha
OM Ashvaroodaya Namaha
OM Kadghadharine Namaha
OM Dhanarjanasamootsukaya Namaha
OM Ganasaralasanmadhyakasturitilakojjwalaya Namaha
OM Sachitandharoopaya Namaha
OM Jaganmangaladayakaya Namaha
OM Yajnaroopaya Namaha
OM Yajnabokthre Namaha
OM Chinmayaya Namaha
OM Parameshwaraya Namaha
OM Paramarthapradhaya Namaha
OM Shanthaya Namaha
OM Sreemathe Namaha
OM Dordhandhavikramaya Namaha
OM Paratparaya Namaha
OM Parasmaibrahmane Namaha
OM Sreevibhave Namaha
OM Jagadeeshwaraya Namaha
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on July 28, 2008, 01:25:19 AM
1.Attached is a photo of srivari paadalu located on tirumala hills.
2.View from srivari paadalu, you can see the golden shrine and the vaikuntam 'q' complex.
3.Scenic view from srivari paadalu.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on July 28, 2008, 07:00:48 AM
July 25, 2008 19:15 IST

The name of Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of the 2,000-year-old hill shrine at Tirumala, is all set to "Reach the Moon" onboard the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) of the US space agency NASA [Images], scheduled for launch later this year, according to a devotee.

Responding to an invitation of NASA to the public to join the lunar exploration journey with an opportunity to send their names to the Moon onboard the LRO, the devotee in this temple town on Friday registered the name of Lord Venkateswara on the project website.

According to the NASA website, the names being submitted since May 1 under the project would be placed on a microchip that would be installed on the LRO spacecraft and travel to the Moon.

The devotee said he had logged on to the address 'http://iro.jhuapi.edu/NametoMoon/undex.php' and sent the name of "Lord Venkateswara, Tirupati" and received an automatic online certification of participation in the "Send your name to the Moon" project of NASA.

The certificate number of Lord Venkateswara was 1787055 dated July 24, 2008, he said.

According to the IRO website, the deadline for submission of names is July 31.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on July 28, 2008, 07:08:32 AM
THE stage is set for Amruthotsavam of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). President Pratibha Devisingh Patil will inaugurate the TTD platinum jubileecelebrations at Mahati Auditorium here on July 7.
'Talking to newsmen here today, TTD Chairman B Karunakar Reddy said the four-day fete was planned to celebrate the 75th anniversary of takeover of Tirumala temple administration bv a board of trustees.Till 1933, the ancient temple of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala was administered by kings, queens, sultans, British rulers and Mahants.
Tirumala witnessed a tremendous development during the last 75 years due to the initiatives taken by the Board of Trustees and the untiring efforts of TTD employees and innumerable number of devotees. The annual revenue of the world famous temple crossed Rs 12,000 crore.
Amruthotsavam would provide an opportunity to recall the tremendous contribution of TTD Board
members, employees and devotees to the development of the hill shrine. "It would also be a platform to plan for future and further development of the temple," he said. . The President will formally launch Sri Venkateswara Bhakti Channel at Mahadwaram of Srivari temple at Tirumala, unveil the platinum jubilee pylon and inaugurate the new building of Sri Venkateswara Oriental College constructed at cost of Rs 3 crore.
The TTD, which initially planned to organise an exhibition of the invaluable gold and diamond jewellery of Lord Venkateswara (which is not being used at present) at SV Oriental College, dropped the proposal for security reasons, Executive Officer KV Ramanachary said.
But the real reason for the cancellation of the jewellery exhibition is said to be an objection from Agama pandits.
Meetings on various aspects of Tirumala temple and spiritual issues will be organised at Mahati Auditorium during the platinum jubilee celebrations. Renowned artistes will present cultural programmes at Indira Maidan (Tuda Grounds) every day, he said.
Special Officer AV Dharma Reddy, CVSO BV Ramana Kumar, FA&CAO Anita S Akella and oth? ers were present.
Title: Re: Story of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Post by: adwaita on March 12, 2009, 12:36:51 PM
Gold plating of Ananda Nilayam

The historic dcision to gold plate the Ananda Nilayam, the sanctum santorum of the Tirumala temple will be implemented today.

The chief minister Dr.Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy will launch the first phase of Ananda Nilayam- Ananta Swarnamayam Pathakam estimated to cost Rs.100 crore .

The exercise of gold plating the Srivari Temple began way back in 1267 when the then Pandyan king Sundara Pandyan got done the Kalasham of the temple . Later the Salva King Mungidevudu in 1359 and the Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishna Devaraya provided gold for the entire gopuram of the sanctum of the Srivari temple. In 1958 the Temple authorities got the sanctum outerwall gold plated with 12 kgs of gold donated by the devotees.

The TTD chairman Sri. AdiKeshavulu Naidu says that the TTD board has taken up this unique program as per the suggestions of Agama Shastra pundits and the Peethadhipathis of the Vaikhanasa cult to enhance the divine energy around the Srivari Temple .

The authorities have plans to digitise the inscriptions on the outer and inner walls of the Ananda Nilayam stretching around 10,000 square feet . "Even the gold plating will be done without damaging the inscriptions by leaving an half inch gap between the wall and the plating ", says the Executive Officer Sri. K.V.Ramanachari.

The entire project is expected to cost over Rs.100 crore and the TTD has kept its doors open for the donations for the gold plating program which has already attracted devotees from all ove rthe world with their offerings.

"The devotees who offer one kg of gold or multiples will be honored in a unique manner by the temple authorities " he says . The donor scheme will provide them special benefits and othe concessions in darshan, accomodation, prasadam etc once a year .

With the gold plating of the Srivari Ananda Nilayam, the TTD will be one among the several Indian temples like Golden temple of Amristsar to achieve the feat . "We will be more unique as the TTD will spend over Rs.1000 crore for the purpose " says the TTD chairman Sri.Adikeshavulu Naidu