One of the most-visited places of worship in the history of India, Lord Balaji has carved himself into our hearts and souls forever.
Lord Balaji is a reincarnation of Maha Vishnu.
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, known as the richest temple in the world, is located in Tirupati, Sri Balaji District, Andhra Pradesh, India, and is dedicated to Venkateshwara.
Venkateshvara means “Lord of Venkata” in Sanskrit. The word is a compound of Venkata (the name of a hill in Andhra Pradesh) and ishvara (the Sanskrit word for “Lord”).
According to the Brahmanda and Bhavishyottara Puranas, the name “Venkata” means “destroyer of sins” because it is derived from the Sanskrit words vem (sins) and kata (power of immunity).
Srinivasa (in whom Lakshmi resides), Narayana (the creator and destroyer), Perumal (the mighty lord), Malaiyappa (the lord of the Hill), and Govinda are only a few of the names by which Venkateshvara is known.
He is worshiped as the god of the seven hills, or “yedu kondala venkanna” in Telugu.
The much-hailed temple, that remains to be the pride and joy of Hindus, the Tirupati Balaji (or Venkateswara) can trace its history back to ancient Hindu mythology.
The Hindu god Venkateswara is said to have taken human form to aid his devotees in their struggles with the material world.
According to myth, Lord Vishnu once chose to assume human form so that he may experience life as one of his many devoted followers. Prince Venkatachala grew up to be a respected and beloved leader for his people.
A sage by the name of Bhrigu once visited Venkatachala at his palace to put his hospitality to the test.
The prince’s wife became enraged and smacked the sage after he kicked him in the chest. Venkatachala asked Bhrigu for forgiveness and expressed regret.
Lord Vishnu, who had been dwelling in Venkatachala’s heart, was knocked out of his body by Bhrigu’s kick and so decided to abandon the mortal realm.
The Tirupati Balaji temple was built on the site of a little image of him left behind by his followers.
Shri Vishnu’s avatar, Lord Balaji, is revered by Hindus. He is also known as Venkateswara, Tirupati Thimmappa, and Govinda.
Since the liberation of humanity was the ultimate goal of Lord Vishnu, he transformed into a granite stone idol and moved to the holy Seven Hills.
His two wives, Goddess Lakshmi and Princess Padmavati, also had their forms carved into stone so they may always be by his side.
Padmavati Devi rests her head on his left shoulder, while Goddess Lakshmi rests her left arm across his chest.
Tirupati, home to Lord Balaji, attracts millions of worshippers each year. His divine nature, charisma, and mystique all serve to attract believers from all walks of life and regions of the world.
Even if they have to wait all day, devoted followers of the Lord will be granted the privilege of being in his presence if they sincerely pronounce his name.
Located in the town of Tirumala in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, the temple holds intriguing secrets and stands as one of the most renowned Hindu pilgrimage sites globally.
It attracts a multitude of visitors seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings.
The temple is believed to possess the power to grant the heartfelt desires of devotees and bring forth abundant good fortune.
By offering prayers, delving into the enigmatic tales of the temple, and making generous donations, worshippers hope to unlock the mystic wonders and receive blessings beyond measure.