See Tirupati Historical Facts, Rich History and Culture
Tirupati
Situated in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is well known for its spiritual importance, especially because of the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. Tirupati is known for its religious significance, but it also has a rich history, dynamic culture, and stunning architecture. Let’s investigate the oddities, celebrations, and architectural features of the temples that contribute to Tirupati’s distinctive charm.
Hidden Facts About Tirupati
- Ancient Origins: Tamil literature from as early as the first century AD contains references to Tirupati, whose history goes back a long way.
- Classic Dravidian architecture is exemplified by the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, which can be identified by its finely carved mandapams (pillared halls) and gopurams (tower gateways).
- World’s Wealthiest Temple: Because of the huge gifts it receives from followers, the Tirumala Temple is sometimes mentioned as the richest temple in the world.
- Vimana Venkateswara: The idol of Lord Venkateswara, popularly referred to as Srinivasa, has been adorned with a unique crown known as Vimana Venkateswara and is thought to be self-manifested (Swayambhu).
- Sacred Seven Hills: Venkatadri, the seventh peak of the Seshachalam range, is where the temple is located.
- Sacred Seven Hills: The temple is situated atop Venkatadri, the seventh summit of the Seshachalam range.
- Gold-Plated Dome: Adding to the temple’s grandeur and opulence is the Ananda Nilayam Vimana, which is the sanctum sanctorum’s dome.
- Srivari Hundi: Every year, devotees donate gold, silver, and precious stones to the temple’s Hundi, which serves as a donation pot. These contributions total crores of rupees.
- Divine Hair Donation: Tonsuring is a major ceremony in Tirupati when devotees offer their hair as a sacrifice. This hair is sold by the temple, and the earnings help to fund its operations.
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Temple Architecture
- Gopurams: There are multiple gopurams in the temple, the tallest of which is the main entry tower known as Raja Gopuram.
- Ananda Nilayam Vimana: The Ananda Nilayam Vimana, a gold-plated dome that is the centrepiece of the temple’s design, is atop the sanctum sanctorum.
- Mandapams: Several mandapams, including the Ranga Mandapam and Tirumamani Mandapam, are located within the temple complex and are utilised for a variety of rites and rituals.
- Dwajasthambam: To signify the holy presence of the temple, a colossal flagpole adorned with gold plating stands at its entrance.
- Garbhagriha: The primary deity, Lord Venkateswara, lives in this most sacred place. This space is beautifully furnished and religious.
- Pushkarini: Swami Pushkarini is the name of the temple tank that is utilised for several rites and has great religious significance.
Festivals in Tirupati
Brahmotsavam
Vaikunta Ekadasi
Rathasapthami
Pavithrotsavam
Anivara Asthanam
Vasanthotsavam
Pushpa Yagam
Teppotsavam
Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam
Deepavali
