DEVASTHANAMS, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, Tirupati TIRUPATI Sri Balaji Arogya Varaprasadini scheme (SRI BALAJI INSTITUTE SURGERY, RESEARCH AND REHABILITATION FOR THE DISABLED TRUST Health is wealth. The TTD in 2007 has (BIRRD) established a multi speciality hospital Sri BIRRD is established to provide treatment, free Institute of Medical Sciences of cost to the disabled patients, diseased due to Polio (SVIMS) to provide treatment for poor people. It mellitus, Cerebral Palcy, congenital diseases diseases has founded Arogya Varaprasadini scheme. We related to backbone injuries, the handicapped patients request the public to generously donate for this due to bone and joint disorders. Please extend your scheme and get the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. kind co-operation in the form of donation as a helping Section 80(G)/35(i),(ii) provides tax exemption for hand. Service to the poor and needy is itself a service to God. donars Under Section 80 (G) exemption from Income tax Address for Demand draft/cheques to be sent: is provided to donars The Director, SVIMS, Send Demand Draft/Cheques to the under said Tirupati - 517501 address: Ph. No: 0877-2287777 The Director, Accounts section: 2225 BIRRD Trust For more details please contact T.T.D, TIRUPATI - 517501 0877-2287152, 2286131, 2287777 Ph.No: 0877-2264025 For other details, please contact Website:www.tirumala.org 0877 - 2264619 website: www.tirumala.org “Tirumala Kshetra Darshini” Series

TIRUPATI YATRA

English Rendering A.

Telugu Original Akella Vibheeshana Sarma

Published by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, Tirupati. 2016 TIRUPATI YATRA Preface

English Rendering “Venkatadri samam sthanam brahmande A. Krishna nasthi kinchana Venkatesa samo devo na bhootho na Telugu Original bhavishyati” Akella Vibheeshana Sarma There is no place in this world which can equal Venkatadri. There did not originate any God like T.T.D. Religious Publications Series No. 1223 Venkateswara in the past, and may not even in future. ©All Rights Reserved Akhilandakotibrahmandanayaka, Sri Venkateswara Swami manifested on Venkatadri, the so called Kaliyuga First Edition - 2016 Vaikuntam, and is blessing all his devotees by providing darshan. Pilgrims in multitude visit Tirumala everyday to worship Lord Venkateswara and have darshan of Copies : 3000 the divine, auspicious idol, and get abhaya (removal of fear) from Him.

Published by The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has resolved Dr. D. Sambasiva Rao, I.A.S., to publish books under the series ‘Tirumala Kshetra Executive Officer, darshini’. It entrusted many proficients to write on Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, peculiar properties of Lord Venkateswara, to make the Tirupati. readers know about remarkable attributes like - He is the God who manifests when pleaded for, He is a boon D.T.P: giver, the importance of the place where He manifested, Office of the Publications Division, the divine auspicious idol, Swami Pushkarini, Holy T.T.D, Tirupati. teerthas, daily worships, Swami Brahmotsavams and many such extraordinary epithets. Printed at : Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Press, Akella Vibheeshana Sarma has written ‘Tirupati Tirupati. Yatra’ in telugu and it is translated into English by iv

A. Krishna. Hope this book will provide immense Contents happiness to the readers and will give infinite information about pilgrimage to Tirumala. 1. Yatra - Dictionary meanings - Kinds of Yatras 2. Wide meanings for the words-Tirupati -Tirumala 3. Visitors of Tirumala in Ancient times In the Service of Lord Venkateswara 4. Routes to Tirumala 5. Tamilians mode of journey to Tirumala 6. Kannadigas mode of journey to Tirumala Executive Officer, 7. Andhras mode of journey to Tirumala Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, 8. Northern people’s mode of journey to Tirumala Tirupati. 9. The rules for stay at Tirumala during the past 10.Importance of Tirumala Hill 11. Stages in Tirupati - Tirumala yatra 12.Ancient people’s mode of journey to Tirumala

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YATRA - Dictionary Meanings-Kinds of Yatras

‘Yatra’ is a feminine sanskrit word that ends with the sound of letter ‘Aa’. For this word the dictionaries have given meanings such as ‘going on tour’, ‘visiting Holy Places’, ‘spending time’, ‘observing Jatara’. If we go through the legends and epics, we come across the victories, journeys made by emperors and kings, the journeys made for the protection of yaagaswa (horse-intended for the Performance of yaga) and the journeys made for the protection of cowherds and cows. Similarly we come across in the epics like ‘’ and ‘Mahabhagavata’ one kind of sect going to the hill or to the sea - shore or to the wood for the fulfilment of their specific desire. Though ‘kasi- yatra’ has become a ritual in marriages of upper castes, it is basically an educational tour. In ancient times, poets, artists, scholars and scientists used to go on tour with their disciples to establish their excellence in scholarship. Now-a-days there are different kinds of yatras. They are ‘Vihara yatra’, ‘Vinoda yatra’, ‘Vignana yatra’, ‘Sahasa-yatra’ (Adventurous journey), ‘Antariksha yatra’, (space - journey), ‘Santi yatra’, ‘Teertha yatra’ and ‘Kshetra yatra’. In addition to these, the word ‘yatra’ is suffixed to some of the inauspicious journeys. At present we hear about Pada yatra and odarpu yatra. Of all yatras, ‘Teertha yatra’ and ‘Kshetra yatra’ are the sacred ones. They have multi-purpose advantages. That is why the Indians in legends 2 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 3 repeatedly thought about this kind of yatras, taught us Tirupati speaks clearly about Sripati. Sri to follow them, announced loudly their sanctity and Mahavishnu is none other than Sripati. The places regarded them a means for the fulfilment of mundane where in Mahavishnu with His consort is and spiritual desires. Yatra for Manasa sarovar is installed in worship form are called Tirupatis. But while famous for Hindus but it comes under ‘Teertha yatra’ speaking about the Holy Places in the word and ‘Kshetra yatra’. ‘Tirupati’ is not affixed to any Holy Place. The Holy Place Sri Rangam is called Sri Rangam but it is not In , there are three important sects in called Tirupati. Sri Villiputtur is not called ‘Villiputtur . They are Shaiva, Vaishnava and Shakteya. Tirupati’. This kind of dispute is not there for Tirupati These sects have their own respective traditions, in of . It remains a customs and holy places to visit. Of these sects Sri compound word without the necessity of being Vaishnava sect has become very popular amongst the prefixed or suffixed by any word to ‘Tirupati’. people due to several reasons. It gives importance to the visit of 108 Holy Places. “Naalaayiram” is a Holy In ancient times there was significance only for Text for Sri Vaishnavas. There are ‘Pasuras’ relating the word Tirumala. ‘’ means ‘hill’. When ‘Tiru’ to 108 Holy Places in it. These Holy Places are called has become a sacred term, Tirumala has become a ‘Tirupatulu’ and spoken well by Alwars. Only Tirupati- Sacred Hill. Peyalwar, one of the Alwars described Tirumala and are in Andhra Pradesh. Tirumalai as a Hill where streams flow in plenty around it and hailed swami ‘Tirumalai Mel’. But this town in Wide meanings for the words “Tirupati ancient times was called Govinda Raja Pattanam, Tirumala” Achyutaraya puram, Kottur. ‘Tiru’ is a Tamil word in both Tirupati and In Telugu Errana who worshipped Tirumala. ‘Tiru’ is affixed to a number of villages and “Venkatachalasthayi” gave importance to the term towns in Tamil Nadu. For example: Tirunelveli, ‘’. Sreenatha in “Kasikhandam” referred to the Tiruchinapalli, Tiruvallikkeni, Tirunindravur. It has mountains as Sri Saila, Venkata, Ahobila, Sonadri, become a tradition for Tamil to affix the word ‘Tiru’ Salagramam. During the days of Tallapaka dynasty the indicating the honour of persons. The word ‘Tiru’ is place at the foot of the Hill was called ‘Diguva Tirupati’ prevalent in traditions and customs of vaishnavas. Ex: and the place on the top of the Hill was called ‘Yeguva Tirumeni, Tirumada Veedhi, Tiruppalliyelluchi, Tirupati’. But for in their keertanas, the poets used it Tirumanjanam. with a single meaning but in other places they used it 4 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 5 separately. As per the context we must understand the Tirumala is clearly described in the book ‘Hari places described. Vamsam’ written by Errana as a part of Galava’s journey. As per ‘Venkatachalamahatmyam’ there are ‘Sripati puranayaka descriptions about king Dasaratha’s visit to the temple Ramaku Tirupati Ramude mandu Tirumala, his worship of swami and his aspirations Sri Venkatadri Tirupati Lopalanu’ for the sake of offspring. Likewise there are sources In the some way Kannada Haridasas hailed Him to speak of Sri ’s visit to Venkatadri. History ‘Tirumala Tirupati Vasa, Kande Tirupati Venkata says that the Hill is called ‘Anjanadri’ as Ramana’ in Devara namagalu like Tallapaka poets. Anjaneyaswami was born on this Tirumala Hill. There Whatever may be the reason, Tirumala has become a are legendary sources to speak of Markandeya and Balabhadra who worshipped swami. These are all Sacred Place with the importance of Kshetra, Teertha legendary persons. In this context we must study the and Divine traits. sankeertan of Tallapaka Annamacharya. Visitors of Tirumala of Ancient times “Ila Saptarushulu vedaki Pradakshinamu In there are certain Suktas that indicate Lalaranjesina Devundatanditande the Glory of Venkatachalam. Of these Suktas the Nelavai Koneti Ponta nityamun kumaraswami famous Sukta is this. Kalimindapamu sesi kanna Devunditande. “Arayi! Kane! vikate girim gaccha sadanve! Yekkuvai Brahmadulu Neppudu Nindradulu Sirimbitasya Satvabhih Tebhishtwa Takkaka Kolichiyunna tattvameetande chatayamapi”(Rig. 7-153-8) Chakka Naradadula sankeertanakun Jokki Nikkina Sri Venkatadri Nilayundu Nitande”. The above Sukta speaks of the Glory of The above sankeertan speaks of how Saptarishis Venkatachalam and Venkatachalapati. circumambulated Sri Venkateswara, howKumaraswami “O poor, blind, unwealthy, deformed and miserable performed penance at koneru, how , and people! go to Venkatachalam. Practice meditation and others worshipped for the attainment of that tattva and yoga on the Hill. All your sins will be burnt away on how Narada and others sang of Sri Venkateswara in account of Sattvic, Merciful, Affectionate, Divine utter delight”. qualities of Venkatachalapati, the seat of Maha Ten Alwars were responsible who praised Swami Lakshmi”. in their ‘Pasuras’ making Him popular. The speciality 6 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 7 of these songs is that they are in . There in these two language speaking people. The traditions is an argument that Alwars came to Tirupati, stood at and customs, the relations of the rulers between these the foot of the Hill and praised the Hill and swami too. two states have increased down the centuries, with the There is another argument that Alwars came to Tirumala increase of vaishnava cult during the reign of Salva climbing the Hill and worshipped Swami after getting Narasimharaya, Sri Krishna Devaraya, Achyuta astonished by the scenic beauty of the Hill there. Some Devaraya, Tirupati has become a visiting place for both others say that Alwars did not come to Tirupati but all the states. Kannadigas in day to day affairs say that Divya Tirupatis appeared in front of them. As a proof God is none other than Tirumalappa; Devaranamagalu of this they say that Nammalwar mainly spent his time palle of Sree Padaraya, Vyasaraya, Purandaradasa, in the hole of a tamarind tree. Whatever may be the Kannadadasa and Prasanna Venkatapati Dasu has reason, as the Tirumala Tirupati were under the rule of increased the desire of visiting Tirumala among the Tamil kings, as there is a reference in Sangam Literature, people. During this time the literature of Tallapalla as the services of Tamil kings took importance, as emerged greatly in Telugu and lasted for 150 years Tamil inscriptions are more in number at Tirumala and inculcated devotion on Venkateswara among Tirupati, there is no doubt to say that came to Telugu people. As a poet of the temple and as a Tirupati in large numbers in the ancient times. In sankeertanacharya of Vaishnavite temples, addition to it, the arrival of Tamils to Tirumala has Annamacharya’s services rendered with unpolluted increased much after the spread of Srimad Ramanuja devotion attracted Telugu people. Swami has become tradition, after the implementation of Pancharatra adored Deity not only for people but worship style. Tamil Nadu regards Tolkappiyam also for Andhra people. At present worshiping Sri Tiruvengadam as the northern boundary. It is quite Venkateswara as our beloved Deity is indeed a natural that the states firmly establish their existence in milestone in the evolutionary process of our devotion. their own regions. That’s why Telugu people are next to Tamils in visiting Kannadigas - Haridasas Tirupati. They name their children Vengamamba, There is a great significance for kannada and Venkata Ramana, Venkateswara, Srinivasa, Govinda, Andhra regions in . The languages of these Govindamma, Yedukondalu as a mark of devotion to two states have developed together like the two Swami. Likewise poets, scholars, singers treat swami branches of a river, like the two branches of a tree, as their own Deity and are expressing their devotion in like the twin babies of a mother, similarities are more different genres. 8 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 9

The services rendered by Kannadigas for swami Kannada Haridasas are mostly from . The are commendable. Especially the Hoyasala kings, tradition of going from one kshetra to another kshetra Tuluva dynasties, Mysore Maharaja rulers, Surapura singing keertans and spreading devotion widely to other samsthana rulers, Yadavas have made their permanent states is factual and it originated from Maharashtrians. devotion by different services. There is a ‘State guest Pandari keertans belong to this category. House’ at Tirumala for kannadigas. The people who The speciality of Sri Venkateswara is that the worship swami next to Andhras and Tamilians are devotees from all parts of India are coming to Tirumala. Kannadigas. ‘Kalau Venkatanayakah’ is the first cause for their belief Tirumala outtarahulu (Visitors from North India) in Srinivasa and the other cause is because of the spread People from North India who come to Tirumala of Srinivasa’s Glory. Besides these, various spiritual are the next important visitors. Vallabhacharya who programmes by T.T.D are being conducted in different propagated Bhakti cult in North India was a Telugu regions. With this inspiration, the temples in foreign person. After the fall of Vijaya Nagara Empire followed countries have come into existance. On account of by Mohammadan rule and British East India company, T.T.D’s efforts not only Hindus but also people from Mahantis with their unpolluted services propagated other religions are coming to Tirumala by giving devotion on Srinivasa in North India. They introduced declaration. Swami to the Northerners as Balaji. It is due to The speciality of Tirumala is that even Mahantis efforts that the name of Balaji is established Mohammadans are taking part in the services of swami. for Sri Venkateswara. North Indians like Dharmadas, The story of Bibinanchar is the best example to state Bhagawandas, Mahaveerdas and Prayagdas have that one should not insult the other religion but treat it struggled hard for the development of Tirumala. With with love and affection. This is the main reason behind the arrival of North Indian Uttaradi Muths, Rajasthan it. choultries have come up in Tirupati and Tirumala. Routes to Tirumala Other visitors to Tirumala In olden days there were four routes to reach The devotees coming to Tirupati from Maharashtra Tirumala. They were all either foot-paths or paths are also great devotees. According to Sri Venkatachala intended to go in small vehicles. The first route is 25 Mahatmyam the arrival of Lakshmi to Kolhapur miles of a distance from Talakona i.e., Siddheswara is the prime cause of devotion amongst Maharashtrians. kshetram to Tirumala through the forest. The second 10 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 11 route from Dist. is from Balapalli, via Mamandur To reach Tirupati there are many roadways, to Tirumala. It is a ghat route. The staircase is still railways and airways. In Tirumala there are two Foot existing. One or two mantapams (resting places) can Paths- to Tirumala, and Sree Vari Mettu to be found on the way. One mantapam is Eetakayala Tirumala and two roadways (to climb up and climb Mantapam which is seen besides Gogarbham dam. down). A Plan was launched to build a railway but it The third route is from Tirupati via, Alipiri to Tirumala. was nipped in the bud stage itself due to spiritual The fourth route is from Via, Sri Vari Mettu. reasons. For V.I.P.’S visit to Tirumala, the construction Perhaps Vijaya Nagara Emperors might have travelled of helipad was planned but was abruptly stopped due to Tirumala through this route. There is a talk amongst to the protest made by spiritual heads. To-day there the people that after hearing the bell of food - offering are railway facilities from Tirupati to different states. (Naivedyam) to swami, the rulers of Chandragiri used Likewise there are facilities to go to different places to take their meal. from . At present there is airway facility to In addition to these four routes there was a route go to , from Renigunta airport. In to Sri Kalahasti Via, Kapilateertham, Akkarampalli, olden days there were Delhi route and cart route but Mangalam, Chennayigunta and Karakambadi. There today motor cycles, small cars, T.T.D Buses, R.T.C. was also a route from Sri Kalahasti to Narayanavanam, Buses and private taxis have become the means of Nagalapuram Via, Tondamanadu, Gudimallam, transport. Neelisanipeta, Gajula mandyam, Kallur, Attur and “Venkatachala yatrayam Puttur. There was also a route to Puttur Via, Tirupati, Paadamekam Muneeswarah , Appalayagunta, Tirumanyam. Many other Brahmahatyadi Papaghnam routes are mentioned in Meeanji Khafiyats. For example Samsararnava Tarakam.” the routes from Mamandur, Settigunta on the north, The above verse means that if we step up atleast the routes from Tirupati, Kapilateertham, Peruru, Sree once on Venkatachalam, it will burn away all our sins Vari Mettu on the south, the routes from Karakambadi, and will take us across the ocean of samsara (mundane Kalahasti on the east and, the Nagapatla ghat route on world) easily. the west. In addition to these routes there was a tunnel to reach Tirumala from Kapilateertham. The emperor Tamilians Mode of journey to Tirumala Tondaman used to go through this route and worship The mode of journey to Tirumala made by swami. Tamilians is of different kinds. One kind of Pilgrims 12 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 13 coming bare footed from Salem and in around it and put money in it now and then for yellow clothes, they go to Tirumala in groups halting pilgrimage to Tirumala. Whenever they face difficulties, at stages on the way. whenever their dear ones get bed-ridden they vow that Tamilians like to visit swami in the month of they would serve swami and submit vow - offerings. Peratasi. They give importance mainly to saturday. There is a custom amongst the devotees that, if anyone Whether they go to Hill or not, it is their tradition to is unable to go to Tirumala they request the others take head bath, wear Tirunamam, light the flour lamp, who are under pilgrimage to keep their money and observe fast on saturdays in Peratasi month. We find gold in Hundi. The pilgrims oblige and they get it safely Tripundras on the faces of Tamilians in this month. and submit it to swami. All along the way they come in groups hailing swami ‘Yelumalaiyane Tiruvengadava’, Alwars in their Pashuras have mentioned about Sravana star in ‘Naalaayiram’, which is called as Dravid ‘Govinda’, ‘Govinda’ proclaiming that they are the Veda. Sravanam is Tirunakshatram of Swami. Just as devotees of Swami. This is another form. In Sri Tamilians worship Lord Subrahmanya Swami on the Vaishnavas there are Vadagalai and Tengalai traditions. day of Krittika star, they worship Tirumalesa on the Vaishnavas think of Bhagavad Ramanuja and day of Sravana star. There is a mention of ‘Dwadasi’ Vedantadesika as the fore runners of Tengalai and tithi in Naalaayiram. Hence Tamilians like to visit swami Vadagalai traditions respectively. As Ramanuja is said on the day of ‘Dwadasi’ too. There is a saying ‘Sani to be the incarnation of Adisesha, as Tirumala being Neeradu’ in Tamil. Its meaning is ‘take head bath on the form of Adisesha, as Ramanuja rendered saturday’. Some others call it ‘Suni neeradu’ i.e, about innumerable services to the Lord on the Hill, it has taking bath under the water falls. become natural for Tengalais to come to Tirumala. Prasanna Venkata Dasu, a Kannada Haridasa “Naalaayiram” being Dravida veda is regarded as an addressed Swami as “Dravida Veera”. The reason for absolute standard text for Tengalais. But for Vadagalais addressing swami as ‘Dravida Veera’ is that, they might the specific Vaishnava traditions depicted in Sanskrit have seen Tamilians in more number when they visited are the favourite ones. They like Naalaayiram and Tirumala or they might have seen Sri Vaishnavas every Alwars which is said to be their speciality. For this where or studied ‘Naalaayiram’ or heard the words of reason Vadagalai and Tengalai sects were established Tamil Vaishnavas. Tamilians devotion towards Swami in Tirupati and Tirumala. The traditional, service is in some other form too. One form is that they keep oriented Sri Vaishnavites take up their Tirumala yatra a tumbler in worship - room, tie an yellow cloth to take part in specific celebrations. 14 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 15

The orthodox, traditional observers like There are Kanchimatam, Pushpagirimatam at Peddajeeyar, Chinnajeeyar, Ekangi Vaishnavites show Tirumala as per Saivite traditions. Likewise there are their zeal in worshipping swami during “Sattumurai” Uttaradi, Udupi, Raghavendra and Vyasaraya matas celebrations held at Tirumala. In the same way they as per Madhwa (Dwaita) traditions. The orthodox play important role during study celebrations brahmins like to take shelter and meal in those matas. (Adhyayana utsavas) held on the Hill. Besides these, Those who don’t like recent times hotels, prefer to they take part only in the celebrations relating to Acharya stay at the matas. The others stay at T.T.D rooms and Purushas and of Alwars. That’s why their place is go to Matas of meals. These are their choices of permanent in birthday celebrations of Bhagad selection. Ramanuja and in the celebrations held in the garden of Kannadigas Mode of journey to Tirumala Anantalwar who built a public - garden (udyanavanam) In olden days Kannadigas used to go to Tirumala in Tirumala. While the Alteregos are taken out in the in groups on foot. But they are not coming on foot procession along the streets of Tirumala, the orthodox from far off distances like Tamilians. The villagers in brahmins don’t enter the temple for swami’s worship. groups come to Tirumala on foot when one person It is their belief that swami’s magic powers will come stands before them sounding the bell and blowing the to (idol - deities) Alterego’s. As the priests in those large trumpet. This sort of custom is still in vogue days were less in number and the services rendered amongst the villagers. There are many advantages in by them inside and outside the temple were beyond this mode of journey. The first advantage is that they their capacity, this might have been the reason for not take care in preventing the attack of wild animals while entering into the temple. The orthodox Sri Vaishnavites going through the forest. The second advantage is that in large numbers conduct a meet in front of Malayappa when somebody breaks in the middle of journey he Swami during Brahmotsavams especially on the day can take protection from the other group listening to of Garudotsavam. In the same way the traditionalists the sound of bells. (orthodox people) won’t like to enter the temple. They The mode of jouney by Kannadigas is well don’t like to stay where there is neither a draw-well described in “Devaranamagalu”. A person by name nor well with steps. They visit Alarmelmangai Tayar at Vijayadasulu asked Kannadigas to make a pilgrimage Tiruchanur and from there they go to Tirumala and whole heartedly without confusion. Purandaradasu visit Varahaswami as per tradition. This is how they asked the devotees to follow Dasas and taught them express their devotion. the disciplinary method (Follow the Dasas and stay 16 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 17 along with them through out the travel). Swami’s star being ‘Sravana’, they worship Swami Vyasavittaladasulu referred in their writings about on saturdays in the month of Sravana. If anybody in pilgrims who come to Tirumala from different regions their house faces trouble, they pray to Lord and tie the of , i.e., they say that many Kannadigas visit vow-offerings. Afterwards they come to Tirumala and Tirumalesa. pay their gratitude in different forms. It is clearly understood from Haridasa literature Some of the Kannadigas worship swami in silence. that Kannadigas like to perform Pulangi Seva (Flower- The tradition of Kannadigas coming to Tirumala in worship) on Thursday, Punugu Seva on Friday in silence is described by Ugra Sreenivasa vittalarayadasa. weekly celebrations and Garudotsava, Rathotsava Seva When they come to Tirumala a day before Kshetra and Ratha Saptami in Annual celebrations. They think darshan, they observe fasting. As per the directions of that Tirupati yatra is none other than giri yatra. As an Salva Narasimharaya and as per the order of Sree example Vijaya dasulavaru made a beautiful description Padaraya Mulabagalu, Matadheesulu (The head of of the pilgrimage. “While churning the Milk of Ocean monasteries) show their zeal in visiting Aahnika Swami took on his Mandara mountain. During this mandapam of Sree Vyasaraya who rendered services churning, the Devas and Danavas ran helter-skelter for to Swami for twelve years. Not only that they visit fear seeing the poison gushing out from the ocean. with devotion Sampangi Prakara Pradakshina, the place Taking the order of Mahavishnu Parama Siva swallowed where Vyasaraya sat and performed penance. They the poison and quenched the fiery thirst of the poison. opine that Pulangiseva to be performed on Thursday During the incarnation of Sri Krishna, He lifted the mountain with His little finger and saved the cows and and re-embodiment of Vimana Venkateswara in aerial cowherds. During the incarnation of Sri Rama He pitied vehicle were suggested and installed by Vyasaraya, with affection, who brought Sanjeevani to himself. save Lakshmana who fainted in the war.” Vijayadasa, one of the Haridasas described the Vijayadasa’s devotion is very deep and boundless. tradition of circumambulating round the Sanctum He guaranteed that the pilgrims who make pilgrimage Sanctorum five times. Who ever observes this tradition, to Tirumala will be blessed by Venkateswara, the will be blessed with the high positions. incarnation of Lord lying on the couch of Like Alwars Kannada Haridasas eulogized swami. Adisesha. For them God means Tirumala Appadu. Whenever The month of ‘Sravana’ (August month according they face difficulties they say ‘Sankata bandaage to English calender) is important for Kannadigas. As Venkata Ramana’ as per their tradition. Purandara dasu 18 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 19 sang hundreds of ‘Devaranamagalu’ on Swami. when Vadigoni chelanguchu vatturu gadali he visited Annamacharya, Annamacharya felt happy magutavardhanulu mandaleswarulu and praised him as the incarnation of Vittal himself. jagadekapatulu jaturulunu Kannadigas observe the tradition of going to Tirumala tagu venkatapati darsimpanga bahu singing keertans, playing stick-dance (kolatam), vagala sampadala vatturu gadali applying vermilion (kumkum) on every step with all their devotion. This is called Metlotsavam. The T.T.D “People from four corners Dasasahitya project is conducting the celebrations very come to Tirumala before the onset of monsoon efficiently. Along with their wives, sons, neighbours, relatives and friends Andhras mode of journey to Tirumala They come to worship swami As Tirumala is in Andhra pradesh, and as Telugu with their vow-offerings, jalelu, bundles people consider Swami as their household deity, the money and gems at full speed pilgrimage to Tirumala has become a part and parcel Magutavardhanas (Emperors), of their life. Like Kannadigas Sravana saturdays are Mandaleswaras (Kings) important for Telugu people also. In times of (conquerers)Jagadekapatulu, Jaturulu (wise people) difficulties worshipping Swami, making vow-offerings, come together to visit swami praying with devotion, are the traditions followed by and offer their wealth.” generations/ages together. The mode of journey to Tirupati - Tirumala is clearly there in Sankeertans of He also described about the people who come to Annamacharya. Tirumala for Swami’s blessings, not only from Telugu region but also from far away places, in this way. By Nana dikkula narulella worshipping swami they become great and greater year Vanalalone Vatturu gadali after year. But the local people are kept in ‘Maya’/ Satulu Sutulu barisarulu bandhuvulu illusion’, Annamacharya opined metaphorically. hitulu goluvaga nindarunu The mode of journey to Tirumala during the reign Satasahasra todane vatturu gadali of Vijaya Nagara is clearly understood from mudupulu jalelu mogidala mutalu ‘Annamacharya charitra’ written by Chinnanna. He kadaleni dhanamu gantalusu wrote it in couplet form just as Palkuriki Somanna wrote kadu manchi manulu karulu durgamulu about the mode of journey to Sri Saila. 20 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 21

Naludesal parikinchi nana vidhamula Touching the drums strangely Vilasillu Sri Ramu velluval le Trickling down the tears of joy dandelu Srutigudi talasangatula Singing songs with utmost delight dandi maddelalu chittaramuga mutta Dancing in strange gestures totally immersed nananda bashpamu ladara nagatula They reach the Lord fully intoxicated nananda nandanu nankinchi padi Like Mahasloka this is the abode tanmayalagu chunjutrapu natyagatula of pilgrims coming in the name of sanakadus jinmayu nandune chikki chokkuchunu saying Govinda, Govinda and Govinda calling Him Hari, Narahari Sankadulanu pera janudenchuvari Before they reach Tirumalappa nanupadambunidi maharlokamanuchu They worship those who describe the granter of Govinda Govinda Govinda yanuchu boons na varusane NaraHari Hari yanuchu shining in different colours in their contours Tirumalappanu nadu jeekaramunna stretching the throats vertically like the peacock Varamulappani mrokki varninchuvari pretending with the crowns of deer nerulandu rangu vannelu pisalinchu Tying the barks of parutakulu narapyna niduda mayura kanthamulu And datti around the waist natiyinchu Krishna janapungireetamulu Applying the vertical lines on the forehead batuvyna begade parutakulunu stamping conch and disc on the shoulders pilikuchula nekku pettina dindlu Keeping bonas on the head phalarekhala nindu patte namamulu Hailing the Lord Koneti Rayade, Kondalavade ghanamyna Sankha chakramula mudrikalu who takes the coins from the devotees panuvada devara bonamul puni To grant boons Timmappa, granter of boons. koneti rayande kondalavade There are so many matters of Tirumala pilgrimage kanika rukala kanajala vade in ‘ Bhanu Charitra’ written by Tarigoppula varamula rayade vade Timmappa Mallanna. After a long time, Vijayaloludu meet Chandra “Looking at four directions bhanu and revealed Tirumala matters and described Flourishing in many ways like the flood of Rama’s the places he visited. glory Anasana vratamuche satula karmyambuna Tuning the musical instruments ganapattuvori beegamulavaru 22 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 23

mrokku dirchutakuny muka mugalugudi sididala liyyavaddu jeevalam jampavaddu Yetenchu talamoputindla varu badi badi paggalambaravaddu branamul pidikitambattuka yittattu sidi meeda bittarapu chimmulu chimmaga demalani sirasu kodemula varu vaddu dyhikayasambu dalampaka dorluchu Kadanundi daringanna chalu nadatenchu poralu dandamuvaru “Don’t give hands nor legs in exchange namatamata mrokkuva radugu nadugu Don’t give the heart cutting it off at once dandamulavaru migula sandadi yonarchi Don’t jump into the pits of fire nadari pannaga sarvabhoumacha lendru Enough to say that we are yours goluva kotanukotlu penguta mamara Don’t hang nor kill the animals “The pilgrims appear to be Beegas Don’t run after the paggas repeatedly coming to fulfill the aspirations of their fasting Don’t spray the strange words at the rich wives. Enough to stand at the last and find the way.” come Talamoputindlavaru to Tirumala in groups This is the advice given indirectly to veera shaivas To submit their vow-offerings asking them to step their false traditions. come sirasu kodemulavaru Holding their lives in their fists Chanting of Govindanama come to Tirumala without caring the tiredness of Generally the devotees won’t chant one their bodies namasmarana in mass in any temple. But in Tirupati rolling round the temple. Tirmala yatra we hear the devotees say ‘Govinda, Asking again and again the worshipers Govinda.’ There are two reasons for saying so: Making the din and bustle The first one is Bhagawad Ramanuja didnot find To worship saarvabhaumachalendra any difference between Govindaraja swami at Tirupati come to Tirumala in large numbers.” and Sreenivasa at Tirumala. He made an ordinance to Annamayya said another word: conduct the services to Govindarajaswami as in maru chetu leeyavaddu marugallee yavaddu Tirumala. beerana gundelu gosi pettavaddu The second one is Swayambhu Idol Mahavishnu gorapadi chichulona gundalu choravaddu who stood in worship - form at Tirumala after the end ooraka mee varamani unna chalu of Krishnavatara. He is Himself Venkata Narasimha, 24 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 25

Venkata Rama, Venkata Krishna. Sri Krishna lifted the In the days of Annamayya pilgrims coming to Govardhana mountain and gave shelter for the cows Tirumala - and cowherds. As the devotees climb the Hill, they Pettanadi nudutanu perumalla lanchanamu chant Govindanama. Swami got up and stood from dattamy bhujamulandu daivasikhamani the ant hill preventing the blow of the axe for the reason mudra that it may hit the cow. nettana nalukaminda neelavarnunamamide It is clearly explained in the book “Tirumalai olugu”, tanuvupyndulasi padmakshamalikalu in the sloka “Ghushyate sanghasah ucchai Govindeti dinamu gadupu ninchedi Hariprasadanamu Punah - punah” that the devotees in groups utter the “Wear the upright marks in the forehead words ‘Govinda, Govinda’. Annamayya perhaps for Stamp of daivasikhamani on the shoulders this reason wrote these lines: and always the name of Neelavarna on the tongue Kolichite rakshinche Govindunditandu Wear on the body the beads of Tulasi / ocimum ilaku Lakshmiki magandee Govindunditandu Spend the day taking only food - offering. “If worshipped, rescuer is Govinda are known to us from the description mentioned He is the consort for Bhudevi and Lakshmi” above. Selling of food is the greatest sin and especially picturised the scenes of Krishnavatara in pilgrim centres. That’s why the T.T.D is encouraging the project “Nityannadanam”. For this project lakhs Pondi Sri Venkatadri py posangandirupatilo of rupees are coming in the form of donations. andamy pavvalinchina aa Govindunditandu Outtarahulu/Northern people’s Mode of journey “On Venkatadri and at Tirupati to Tirumala lying down lovely is that Govinda” It is common to call the pilgrims coming to and also said about the necessity of uttering Tirumala as parasthalulu, and foreigners. Parasthalulu Govindanama heartfully and in plentitude. mean’s the people having their residence in their own Uragadrivasu vittala dasulu in Kannada said about land other than Tirumala. In day to day usage they are the devotees climbing the hill and uttering the names called ‘Parashalu’. The word ‘Parasha’ is there in many ‘Govinda, Sacchidananda and Mukunda’. Likewise he Sankeertans of Annamacharya. The people other than described the scene saw by him of devotees rolling Andhras are called ‘Desantharulu’. Annamayya down round the temple premises. mentioned the monasteries of Desantarulu 26 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 27

Sanjeevani parashala kodavaganu Vari Brahmotsavalu, Sree Vari Mettu are the names padali purushalella podigi Sevincheru uttered by the devotees. Vaishnavites call swami Tirumy koneti chantandeertha phalamulanella “Sreenivasaperumal”. This might be the reason for the Parashula kosageeni paramatmudu spread of these words. “The pilgrims from off places Sri Parvatam is one among the Tirumala Hills. Worship swami in plenty There is a verse in Suprabhatam- “Sri Sesha Saila Paramatma gives them Garudachala Venkatadri Narayanadri Vrushabhadri Innumerable boons. Vrushadri mukhyam”. The first word in the verse is Purandara Dasa said that “Allalli parisheya gumpu Sriparvatam. The pathway of Sri Parvatam is itself Sri mattalli topina tampu” Outtarahulu (Gujaratees, Vari Mettu. Rajasthanees) in their pilgrimage to Tirumala go behind The pathway of Sri Vari Mettu is the oldest of all their guru chanting Bhajans. Their favourite utterance ways to reach Tirumala. The practice of worshiping is ‘Giridhara gopala’. swami at Sreenivasa mangapuram, going to Sri Vari Outtarahulu give utmost honour to Vallabhacharya, Mettu and from there reaching Tirumala by climbing a well known Telugu poet. It is he who propagated the stairs has been in vogue from the past to this day. Bhakti cult in North India. It is said that he used to sit At present the T.T.D has provided many facilities for at a pillar in Varahaswami temple and perform penance. the pilgrims walking along this way. Mettu means That’s why outtarahulu visit Varahaswami first and then staircase. This pathway is also like Alipiri. Making the pillar of Vallabhacharya and later on go to visit Chandragiri as their main camp kings used Tirumalesa. In the same way Nepalis have been visiting to go to Tirumala along this way. From here, it is said Tirumala from the beginning. that there was a way up to Avvacharikona. People used to carry stone pillars along this way. This was also Annamayya while worshiping Sreenivasa called Venuguladari. There is one Nadachali on the composed many Madhava Keertans and also way to perform ablutions by the orthodox Sri jagannatha stutulu and united all Vaishnavites Vaishnavites. The Anjaneya swami, idol is worth (devotees). worshiping. Sree Vari Mettu Pathway: There is a talk amongst the people that after the Nobody call the Prime Deity as “Sree Varu” in marriage of Swami with Padmavati they stayed at any temple but for Tirumala swami Sree Varu, Sree Sreenivasa Mangapuram for six months because saint 28 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 29

Agasthya adviced them not to climb the hill in yellow on the bank of Swami Pushkarini for the conduct of clothes (Newly wedded couple wear these clothes). celebrations (Utsavas). Some kainkaryaparulu used to This temple was renovated by Tallapaka dynasty. There reside there permanently. is ‘Kalyani’ river near this temple. There were hard and fast rules for the permanent The rules intended for residence at Tirumala dwellers at Tirumala. As Tirumala is a natural forest during the past: area, there is a restriction that one should not eat fruits to their will and wish. The rule is that after offering the Tirumalesa being the incarnation (Salagrama fruits to Swami, the dwellers should take them as worship form) of Mahavishnu Tirumala has become a Prasadams and lead their lives. Archakas are informed sacred place for Sri Vaishnavites. There is no doubt that they should not cook food in their houses but that Vaishnavites used to come to Tirumala for the should cook in the temple and submit it to Swami and protection of sanctity. But we can not say clearly in later on to their household Deities and offer prayers to which way (path) they come and what are all the holy forefathers. According to the seasonal times they and mythological places they visit on the way to should perform puja with ghee and with other materials Tirumala. to the deities and to the forefathers. There is a According to the legends the saints like suka, the prohibition that they should not eat vegetables, fruits penancers like Bhrigu, the sacred persons like and other items against the traditions of the temple. prahlada, the kings like Ambareesha considered Those who live in Tirumala are provided a facility that Tirumala hill itself as the incarnation of Mahavishnu at the time of giving birth (delivery), death and and stayed at a distance and had a fear of climbing the unexpected events they (Victims) should be taken to Hill on foot. It is clearly understood that they used to Adivara. As the animals and birds are the forms of take bath in the rivers flowing down the Hills and do Bhagawan, the tamasic human beings should not kill penance for the realisation of Narayana. them, should not offer animal sacrifice, should not wear shoes and should not climb with vehicles during As Tirumala is a forest area and full of rocks, the celebrations - Vamana Purana clearly states that place is not suitable for the spread of a city. yavanulu, patitulu, papulu (sinners) should not climb Chendivalan Dhrumakutharudu in olden days built a the Hill which is surrounded by thick natural forest. At street on the west of the temple and made arrangements last paramasiva was alloted a place in the south east for the stay of kainkaryaparulu (Archakas). In couse corner at a distance of one yojana in Adivaram but for of time one Sree Veedhi was built from south to north kainkaryaparulu (Archakas) only a limited place around 30 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 31 the Pushkarini was alloted. There is no wonder in saying Alipiri from the premises of Govindaraja swami and that the pilgrims going to Tirumala in those days were heard the secrets of Srimad from less in number. Tirumalanambi. As Tirumala is a sacred Salagrama The person who came to Tirumala to submit water- (rock) one should not keep foot on it. He used to offering was Tirumalanambi. He was the maternal uncle climb the Hill on knees during those days. Alipiri on of Ramanuja. In the same way the persons who came the foot-path of Tirupati-Tirumala and Narasimhalayam for the construction of udyanavana (public garden) on the foot - path of Alipiri - Tintrini tree were said to were Anantalvan and afterwards Bhagawad be famous. Ramanujulu. Subsequently came Tiruvarangapperumal Importance of Tirumala Hill Araiyar, Vedantadesikulu, Manavala Mahamunulu. Some temples are situated on the banks of rivers. The contents in the book “Tirumala samaya Some can be seen in the forests. Some others are on charamulu” clearly say that Tiruvarangapperumal started the mountain tops and others are in caves. The temple Via , worshiping Devarajapperumal, of Sri Venkateswara is on the mountainous forest area. reaching Tirumala Adivaram, serving Govindaraja Both the Hill and the river have become sacred on swami, saluting to the feet of parankusa parakalura account of Swami’s presence. Swami said to Siva, near the divine tree Chincha at the foot of the Hill at “Anantoham Mahadeva Sthasyami Giri Rupadhrut Alipiri, climbing the Hill, worshiping Narasimha swami Mahadeva! “Mahadeva”! I am in the form of a Hill on the way and reached Tirumala. though I am infinite and eulogized greatly about the History says that Bhagavad Ramanuja visited Hill. Tirumala three times. He took steps to perform Reach the Hill that touches the top of the sky and Adhyayanotsavalu (study celebrations) in Tirupati as then worship the God. Climbing the tower of in Tirumala saying that there is no difference between Tirumalesa and Govindaraja swami. He installed the Venkatagiri, take shelter at the Feet of Bhagawan idols of Alwars in Tirupati as there were no temples standing on the cliff and subsit always at the feet of for Alwars as in Tirumala. Not only in Tiruchanur but Bhagawan. also in Tirumala he took steps to widen Madaveedhi Annamacharya sang many keertans on the Glory for the conduct of Brahmotsavams and also made of the mountain mixing them with the feelings of Alwars facilities for the service-oriented people. He didnot go and the legendary matters. Of all the keertans the most to Tirumala for a long time. Everyday he used to go to famous keertan is - 32 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 33

“Adivo Alladivo Hari vasamu”. ‘Ade chudu Venkatadri Nalagu yugamulandu The second one is Velugondi prabha miraganu? “Kattedura vaikunthamu kanachayina konda “Look at Tiruvenkatadri shining forth in four Tettelaya Mahimale Tirumala konda”. yugas.” Nature in Tirumala was wonderful and beautiful There is a reference about the Seven Hills in during the time of Annamayya. There must have been Suprabhatam and Sreenivasa Gadyam. Sri parvatam, good weather, not causing any tiredness to the pilgrims. Seshasailam, Garudachalam, Venkatadri, Narayanadri, That’s why he said,” Vrushadri are the Seven Hills. In addition to these some “Toranamule trovella other Hills like Chintamani, Gnanadri, Teerthadri, moorata baralumunchina lathala Pushkaradri, Kanakadri, Simhachalam, Anjanadri, Vinjamaralunu visanakarralunu Varahadri, Neeladri, Sreenivasagiri, Anandadri, Sumeru gonje godugeve kondella”. sikharam were mentioned in legends. Kannada Haridasa mentioned the Hills also as Sugandha parvata vasa, “Festoons all along the way Saptagiri vasa, Kondalagiriya vasa along with these with the creepers in lengthy way names. vinjamaras and hand fans Full of umbrellas is this hill.” It is quite natural that the people go up the Hills The peacocks, the groups of kokilalu (the when any Natural Calamity takes place. Swami is there nightingale), different races of birds, the trees that offer on the Hill inviting the devotees who are deeply aspiring fruits were easily available for the pilgrims in immersed in the ocean of samsara getting disappointed, those days. In the same way there was monasteries whatever it may be, it is worthy to note that Tamilians and towers as the resting places for the pilgrims. call swami “Tiru Vengada mudaiyan”. This Hill is called Varaha kshetra because of the story of Varaha Swami. Now we say that Tirumala is a garland of Seven But in course of time the name ‘Venkatadri’ is fully Hills, but in Krutayuga it was called ‘Vrushabhadri’. established. In Tretayuga it was called Anjanadri. In Dwapara it was called Seshachalam. According to another version In some of the temples the visit of temple - tower it was called Anjanachalam in Krutayuga and is important. It is called “Giri Sikhara Darshanam”. Venkatachalam in Tretayuga. That’s why Annamayya Vijayadasa, Kannada Vaggeyakara sang two lengthy vividly described the area of this Hill. keertans on ‘Giri Sikhara Darshan’. They are ‘Giriya 34 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 35

Sikharavakande’ ‘Giriya Sikharavanodi”. As soon as Stages (Dharmashalas/Halts for resting) in the pilgrims reach Tirupati, they look at the temple - Tirupati - Tirumala Yatra Alwar teertham tower, bow their heads, fold their hands and prostrate It is known to all that the pilgrims coming to before the tower with all their devotion. They suminate Tirumala are increasing day by day. In olden days so this experience repeatedly and go farward. This scene many places were there providing opportunities for is beautifully described by Vijayadasa. He said that the completion of ablutions for the pilgrims. Thirty those who don’t have Bhakti sadhans are denied the years ago there were tanks around Tirupati. opportunity of visiting the Hill, one step in Tirumala is enough to uplift his entire race. Uragadri Vittaladasa There is a tank called “Brahmagundam” in front said that until and unless one has punya pakam (results of Jyoti Talkies where Dhobis were washing the clothes. of virtues) one cannot get Giri Darshan. Vedanta Desika Beside it there is drinking water tank called “Narasimha in his “Daya satakam” sang about the Hill. Teertham”. There is another tank adjacent to the road on the east of these teerthas. That is called “Prapadye tam Girim prayah ‘Ramachandragunta’ and is now called Ramachandra Sreenivasanukampaya pushkarini’. Ikshu sarasravantyava There was a small water tank near Paruveta yanmurtya sarkarayitam”. Mandapam on the Tirupati - Renigunta road - way. That the mercy of Sreenivasa flowed like the flood There was Ponna stream on the banks of of sugarcane juice and got solidified and transformed Suvarnamukhi on the west of Tiruchanur. There was a into Sugar Hill called ‘Tiruvenkatachala parvatam’. sprouting spring in the premises of Tirupati Govindaraja Paramasiva taught Sanakada Maharshis that the swami. Likewise there was “Pata koneru” very near to visit of Venkatachala will not be available without the Govindaraja swami temple. There was a devotional practice in the innumerable births of aeons ‘Singarayagunta’ on the way to Alipiri and another tank past. This legendary matter is as follows in the words near the court. There were all water available spots for of Vijayadasa. the pilgrims. In addition to them were Tatayagunta, Mallayyagunta and Tallapaka cheruvulu in the premises “Anantajanumake sadhanakudadallade of market and TUDA. In spite of having these water EeNaga Darigu Darusana Vagadu”. facilities it is quite natural for the pilgrims to aspire for Giridarshanam, Giri Pradakshinam are important the natural water - fall. That water - fall is ‘Alwar for Saivites also. Teertham.’ 36 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 37

Though Tirumala is a Vaishnavite kshetra, there “Tirumala samayacharamulu” clearly state that they exists Eswaralayalu, Saktyalayalu in the surroundings drove away the Saivites punishning and planted four of Tirupati Tirumala. Of these Kapileswaralayam, Chakra Silalu (Idols) in four directions and even in the Kapilateertham are very important. The water fall from presence of Kapileswara. the Hill is at Kapileswara sannidhi. But is called “Alwar Achyutadevaraya conducted coronation ceremony Teertham” due to many reasons. In the surroundings at Kapilateertham. The inscriptions say that Peda of Alwar Teertham there is a temple called Tirumalacharyulu took steps in founding Chakrasila in ‘Nammalwar’. Nammalwar occupies the highest place this teertha. Even today we can recognise the plates of of all Alwars without dispute. There is Nammalwar Sudarshan Chakra sila in four directions. sannidhi inTirupati. There is an inscription on the wall of Nammalwar temple very near to Alwar Teertham. It Chakra Teertham is another name for Kapila reads: Teertham. There is name called Chakrateertham for Kapilateertham. Indra by name Chakrudu went to the “There is a saint living here endowed with divine ashram of Gowtama in his absence said to Ahalya cock knowledge. He is preaching Brahma Vidya to the human and bull stories and spent conjugal life with her, beings.” knowing the affair between Chakrudu and Ahalya It is true that Vaishnavacharyulu and the devotees Gowtama cursed him. The cursed Indra bathed in tried to propagate the name of this water fall as Alwar Kapilateertham and got rid of the curse. Thus Teertham with a number of proofs fearing with the Kapilateertham is called Chakrateertham. There is a increase of Saivites visiting Kapilateertham. There are temple for Chakratalwar here. many references in the book “Tirumala There is a cave in the hill on the western side of Samayacharamulu”. Kapilateertham. There are steps from Sandhya They made an ordinance to conduct Avabrudham Vandanam Mandapam to the cave. There is an idol of during Govindaraja swami celebrations, Narasimha swami in the cave. The pilgrims can go up Vanabhojanotsavam, Teertha bhigamanotsavam in the to the idol of Narasimha swami. There is utter darkness month of karteek, and Saityopacharam of Tirupural behind it. Through this cave it is said that Tondaman dug in the river on full moon day in the emperor and other yogis went up to Sanctum month of Magha. Sanctorum of swami and worshipped Him. The Alteregos of Alwars immersed in Teertham However it has become a regular routine for the along with the Prime Idol was named Alwar Teertham. pilgrims to bathe in Kapilateertham, Alwar teertham 38 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 39 irrespective of whether they are Saivites or Padala Mandapam Vaishnavites. Kapileswaralayam of this place is known In normal usage, Padala Mandapam is called as cave temple. The utter that there are five “Padala Mantapam”. The carved statues of the pilgrims more holy teerthas above Kapilateertham. In these prostrating and worshiping Sree Varu are seen in this mountain ranges there are Maalaadigundam water - Mantapam. Those statues might be the statues of falls. In olden days the hair - offering was submitted Harijans who were unable to step to Tirumala or they here and the pilgrims used to Pray Venkateswara swami might be Vaishnavas who made total surrender to Sree carved on the Hill. The elders say that the dalits in Varu. The importance here is only for the Feet of those days used to go up to Alipiri, worship the Hill Swami and His shoes. and return back from there itself. The devotees observe fasting on Sravana saturdays Alipiri and offer flour food. They draw the symbol of Swami The place at the foot of the Hill is called on the flour, not in one place but in two places. One is ‘Adivaram’ by Tamilians. The orthodox people call it in the house of Harijan in Sri Kalahasti Agraharam on ‘Adipadi’ (First step). But to-day it is well-known as the north tip of Tondamandalam. The second one in ‘Alipiri’.There are two stories about it. One story is the house of another Harijan at Kanchipuram in the that there is a big Tamarind Tree with the entity of south. Adisesha. The importance for Tamarind Tree is more The right foot on the north and the left foot on the in Vaishnavam. Nammalwar used to give darshan for a south appear as impressions of Swami’s feet. They long time, staying in the hole of Tamarind tree. As measure the impressions and make shoes for Sri Varu. there is puli (Tamarind tree) in Adivaram, it is They stitch frills and fringes beautifully. One person established as Adipuli and in course of time it is from Kalahasti and another from Kanchi come to Alipiri transformed into Alipiri. There is another interesting keeping the shoes on their heads, begging alms from story. Once Hyder Ali came to attack Tirumala. He every village, they worship in Alipiri and then keep enquired about the Deity of the Hill. The Hindu minister them in worship-room. The pair is perfect in replied that it is Varaham. The meaning of Varaha is measurement though the measurements are not known ‘suvar’. When Hyder Ali heard the word, he gallopped to either of the two. This means that the Feet of Swami like his horse. Then the people said, “Alipare”, meaning have stamped there. It happens once in an year. But Ali ran away. Alipare has become Alipiri in day to day this tradition is not in vogue now. These shoes get usage. worned out as Swami roams about in Hills and Valleys. 40 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 41

What ever may be the story, the impressions of Feet Sreepadalu appear along the foot - path of Chandragiri, Tirupati, There is a talk amongst the people that Bhagawad and Tirumala Papavinasanam. We can see these Ramanuja came to Tirupati, observed fast- for three impressions even at Tondavada. But once there was a days and climbed the Hill. He used to go from the temple called ‘Alagari singh’ just opposite to this Govinda Rajulu temple to Adivaram for an year, mandapam. But there is Lakshmi - Narayanaswami temple here, today. continuously. Alagiri singadu History says that Tirumalanambi (on the Hill) climb down the Hill and teach the secrets of Ramayans at In Tamilnadu there is a sacred place called ‘Aligar Talayeru gundu. Venkateswara Itihasamala clearly states koil’. The name of the swami there is ‘Sundarabahu’. that one day there was delay in performing puja at There is Narasimha temple over there. Because of this, noon and Tirumalanambi was very much displeased. the Narasimha temple might have flourished in Just then the scented Divine Feet of Swami appeared ‘Adivaram’. The reason for this might be that the just opposite to him and he installed them then and pilgrims going to the temple through the forest used to there owing to this. That place has become sacred. worship first Narasimha swami to get rid of the fear of wild animals. As Annamayya was the devotee of Annamayya sang the following keertan with all Narasimha swami, the pilgrims might have worshipped devotion. Narasinga here. Brahma kadigina padamu Talayeru gundu Brahmamu da nee padamu Paramayogulaku baripari vidhamula This is purely Telugu compound word Paramosagedi nee padamu (samaasam). This kind of compound words are also Tiruvenkatagiri tiramani chupina seen in Annamacharya charitra. There is a huge boulder Paramapadamu nee padamu on the foot-path to Tirumala. There is a belief amongst the people that the pilgrims going to Tirumala when “It is thy feet that were washed by Brahma touch Talayeru gundu with their knees, they get freed Thy feet are Brahman from knee pains and headaches. This kind of tradition It is thy feet that granted salvation is there in some of the temples. They touch their heads For the great yogis in many ways to get rid of headaches. The magnetic power in certain It is thy feet that showed stones might be the reason for their belief. Tiruvenkatagiri Tiramani. 42 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 43

Kummara Mandapam He is the shower of boons in plenty At present the pictures relating to this mandapam Kuruvarati Nambi, the kummaradasa do not appear here. This mandapam relates the story Presented the boons that are asked for of Bhima, a potter during the rule of Tondaman Tondamana chakravarti who made in ornaments emperor. It was his duty to prepare cooking pots and came where he was asked to come. offer them to Swami. After making pots he used to make earthen flowers with the remaining mud and offer After Kummara Mandapam there is a straight them to Sri Venkateswara Murthy. Though Tondaman Verticle up hill to climb - the next stage is gali . emperor was offering golden flowers, they were (The tower of the temple). slipping down. As per the directions of Swami, Gali gopuram Tondaman emperor met Kuruvarati Nambi and talked to him about it. At last, the king and the potter got The elders say that there are two reasons for cleared off their doubts and obtained salvation. getting this name gali gopuram. Where there is a tower, Venkatachala Mahatmyam’s stories relate these there must be a temple. Where there is a temple, there incidents. Annamayya referred this story in many must be an idol. But here there is neither a temple nor instances. For example. an idol. This being an empty tower, has become gali Kuruvanambi Tirumala Kuruvanambi nee gopuram in regular usage. Blowing of severe wind at charanamule kolichi bratike kiritamu kade this tower might be one reason. Some argued that once raju this tower was called empty tower and the deity on the Kondalalo nelakonna koneti rayaduvadu Hill was mother Goddess. Venkateswara’s Tirunamam, kondalanta varamulu guppeduvadu || Konda || conch and disc were set on the tower. There are two Kummara dasudina kuruvaratti nambi small temples in this premises. Some say that immanna varamullella ichchinavadu gorakshanatha, a siddha, performed penance here. Dommulu sesina yetti Thondaman Tallapaka poets addressed Swami “Gorakkur, chekkuravarthi Gorakkure” while describing Venkateswara. There is Rammanna chotiki vachi namminavadu a temple trust and gali gopuram for the protection of || Konda || these temples. Uragadri Vittaladasa, one of the kannada The crowned king live on worshiping the Feet Haridasa said, “Mellamellana Bhaktarullasavane Torva He is koneti Rayudu flourished on the hills chalva goligopura Dwarakke Saranu”. 44 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 45

Temple of Narasimha in the pathway were in the form of stone idol on the old foot-path. Just as there is a Narasimha temple at Alipiri, there There were no doors for this mandir. People believe is a temple on the way too. “Tirumala olugu” a text in even today that Akkagarlu have the powers as much Tamil gives evidence that Tiruvarangapperumal Arayar as the village deity. Here the water drops are falling worshipped this beautiful Narasimha Swami in the down through the crevices of the hill boulders. The forest. The temple that stands at the entrance of devotees treat this water as teertham. Avvachari Kona on Garudadri is Lakshmi Avvacharikona Nrusimhalayam. There is a name ‘Simhadri’ for Avvacharikona is a valley on the way to Knee Tirumala/“Simhadri” is another name for Tirumala. History says that Hiranya kasipu was killed here only. mountain on the foot-path to Tirumala. History says After killing Hiranyakasipu, Ugra Narasimha Swami that this valley was named in the name of Avvachari, a while roaming in the forest, could not recognise either Vaishnava devotee. Some say that after the visit of Lakshmi Devi or the Three crores of Gods. When Narasimha swami temple the pilgrims go down the Lakshmi devi was worried, the Trinity gave a word to valley and again come up to the Hill. So it is called Lakshmi that they will not allow Sri Narasimha Swami ‘Avvali chariya’. There is a tradition to look at the to cross Garudadri. History says that when Lakshmi beautiful scenes of Chandragiri from here. Some others came in the guise of Chenchu Lakshmi, Ugra say that the pilgrims looking at the green trees, deep Narasimha Swami was pacified. Some say that Salva valley and beautiful scenes expressed their wonder Narasimharaya renovated this temple. This temple must ‘Vahvakona’. That is why it was named as have been established to give further protection to the Avvacharikona. Still others say that as the cold starts pilgrims and to get mercy from Swami who started from here, it is named as Avvachalikona. from Alipiri. Mokallamudupu Akkagarlu Mokallamudupu is a Hill area with highest steep There is a mandir for Akkagarlu on the bus route steps on the foot-path to Tirumala. In those days it after passing Narasimha temple. Sometime in the past, was very difficult for the pilgrims to climb up the steps it was on the old foot-path. Some say that when the from Avvacharikona. Even the elephants used to touch road was being laid, it could not hold strength and their knees and climb the Hill. While climbing the Hill many of the people lost their lives. After wards the pilgrims hold their knees. This might be the reason Akkagarlu were sent on to the ghat road. Akkagarlu for naming it ‘Mokallamudupu’. Uragadri Vittaladas 46 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 47 in his Sankeertans sang of the mountain as mentioned Trova Bhashyakarulu here. It is true that Bhashyakarulu means Bhagawad, “Tirutirugi Tiruvanu karuvu Arasuvante Ramanujulu. Of all the writings of Ramanuja, ‘Sri Tirudiri Monakala Murigi Saranu”. Bhashyam’ is very important. He is the founder of southern . He is a sacred person who has It is the poet’s thought that the pilgrims have to streamlined the rituals of worship in Sri Rangam, climb the Hill stopping here and there on the way just Kanchi, and Tirumala Kshetra. The idol of Ramanuja as the cow stops and cries for its calf. Annamayya can be seen in the temple of Govindaraja swami, on climbed the Hill with shoes, got tired and fainted under the way to Tirumala and also in Sri Vari temple. the bamboo bush. Then the Goddess appeared before Once Ramanuja was making journey to Annamayya and advised him not to climb the Hill with Venkatachala, Tirumalanambi, Anantalwar took the shoes. She Herself fed him with consecrated food. In riped mangoes of Swami, met Ramanuja and submitted this context Annamayya spoke spontaneously one them to him. Then Ramanuja took with so much of romantic satakam with the makutam ‘Venkateswara’. devotion and ate them saying that whenever food- This is clearly said in Annamacharya charitra. The offering of Swami is available, we must take it at once. Goddess directed him to go to Tirumala and The seeds that fell on the soil began to sprout. At the worship Him. This is the first romantic satakam. The place of mango trees the people constructed a mandir verses in this satakam are beautiful gems. and installed the idol of Bhagawad Ramanuja and Araselu nune buriyalu nougulunjakkera started worshiping. Annamayya extolled the Bhashya mandegal vadal Karulu in a Keertan. Burudalu palamandenga lapupamu Gatulanni Khilamyna Kaliyugamandunu layyalamelu Manga nee Gati itande chupe Ghana Guru daivamu Karuduga vindu vettunbaramanna satambula Niyamavasu litandeka nilipenbrapannulaku supakotla tho Dayato Mokshamu Chupendaga neetande nirata vinirmalannamula netula sonala nayamai Sri Venkatesu naga mokki vakitanu Venkateswara! Dayanjuchi mammu nitte tallidandri daivamu Karuduga vindu Vettu baramanna satambula “When all the ways are closed in Kaliyuga supakotla to Nirata vinirmalannamula Netula sonala The great Guru and God is he who showed the Venkateswara”. way 48 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 49

Stand the virtuous in sight righteousness Ancient People’s Mode of journey to Tirumala It is He who presented Salvation with mercy This subject is clearly found in “Annamacharya When we climb the Hill of Sri Venkateswara and charitra” and “Paramayogi vilasam.” How the pilgrims enter the door visit Swami is well described in “Paramayogi vilasam”. Showed mercy as the Mother, Father and God.” “Saluting to Vaikunta gopuram in the first premises, Anjaneya Swami at the seventh mile on the route worshiping the flag-staff, surrounding the Champaka This idol, a modern one is at the foot of the Hill, premises bathing in pushkarini, saluting to the tamarind But it attracts pilgrims beautifully. It is the place that tree, that drives away the sufferings, going past the gives rest for those who climb the steps of second gopuram, worshiping Kamala mahanasagara, Mokallamudupu. The foot-path and road way appear the pushpak of , Maha mantapam, the to be equal here. There is a deer-park nearer to swami. leaders of cavalry, Nityulu, later the Sanctum Sanctorum This is not an old one. This park provides entertainment and visit the Consort of Alamelumanga.” for pilgrims a little bit on the way. How Annamacharya visited Swami is well Science ordains that yagas should be performed described in “Annamacharya charitra” couplet by him. where there are Krishna-deer. Owing to several reason “Coming to the koneru (Pushkarini) worshiping the deer perished on the Hill. With this view the park is Teerthavibhu, astonishing at the beauty of Swami established here. Pushkarini, extolling Adivaraha Swami, drawing the Sare Pettelu (Gift boxes) clothes round his body, worshiping the big gopuram, prostrating before the tamarind tree, garuda flag staff It is a great wonder that the slates of stone appear going round Champaka premises, in hailing the like boxes. Alamelu Mangamma came climbing the Hill fragrance of consecrated food, saluting to Srinivasa. with the boxes full of money, food-grains, silk sarees Praising Bhashyakaras, worshiping Sri Narasimha, and other sweets. When Venkateswara asked Her what Pleading Janardan, saluting to Alamelumanga, looking She had brought, She replied that She had not brought, at Anandanilaya, saluting with folded hands to kalyana curry leaves. Keeping Anjaneya Swami as a guard for mantapam, chanting the golden garuda, worshiping the boxes She came down the Hill to bring curry leaves. Adisesha, presenting the coins in Hundi, visiting Swami Afterwards She became an idol at Tiruchanur as per a with opened eyes Annamayya fulfilled his life’s historical event. ambition.” 50 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 51

Kalyanakatta The hairs grow on the head. Removal of growing hair It is quite natural for the pilgrims to secure has become important. That too the thoughts of good accomodation first, soon after reaching Tirumala. The and bad are related to the head. They come out in a facilities of accommodation are of different kinds-Free haphazard manner. The elders say that the submission accomodation, rented accommodation or residing at of hair-offering is like the removal of weeds from the Matas etc. After securing accommodation they walk crop. There is a tradition of offering the head in Veera towards ‘Kalyanakatta’ and get their heads tonsured Bhakti and Tamasa Bhakti. In course of time the as their vow-offering. submission of hair offering stood in place of the head. Getting Tonsured is the tradition still in vogue. In The compound word ‘Kalyanakatta’ is a strange submission of the hair, won’t agree the cutting off of one. This kind of name is not prevalent in any other hair by scissors and keeping the mustache as it is. As temple. The common usage in Tamil is Mudi Tirumala is a sacred place, there are no restrictions of seluttuvadu but in kannada it is Mudi Samarpane. Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Masa for submission of the Telugu people say that it is the submission of hair hair like wise there are no differences of day, noon offering. The place of submission is called and night. Some of the devotees even today observe ‘Kalyanakatta’. There are two reasons for naming it. the tradition of submitting the hair of their children The river that is near by Srinivasa Mangapuram is before completing one year of age. ‘Kalyani’. On the banks of kalyani there were barbers Padma Purana says : platforms. The devotees coming through this way used to submit their hair, and take their bath in kalyani. After “Teerthopavasah Kartavyah Siraso forming a group they used to go to Tirumala via Sri Mundanam tatha Vari Mettu. Sirogatani Papani yanti Mundanatoyatah” The route of Sri Vari Mettu dates 1000 years back. Swami Pushkarini While Immadi Narasimharayulu was constructing There is ‘Pushkarini’ that presents Sarvateertha Chandragiri Fort, this route was in vogue. Then the Phala Siddhi in Tirumala. Swami means Kumara name of this route was “Sri Pati Mettu”. At present swami. History says that Kumara swami made Penance the devotees are going to Tirumala through this route. in this teertha. There is a story that as Swami appeared ‘Kalyanam’ in reveals the renunciation in Pushkarini to the king Sanaka Maharaju, it has got state. Giving up Egoism is necessary for any man. its name. 52 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 53

All Kannada Haridasas prayed this Pushkarini. Tagina Gangadi teerthamulu nee kadallu Prasanna Venkatadasula Varu eulogized like this: Jagati Devatalu nee jala jantuvulu “Swami Pushkarateera Nilaya namo”. Jagannatha Dasa Gaganambunyalokalu nee dari medalu Praised Swami “Teerthottamatva Sapekshe”. Vyasa Moga nee chuttu makulu munuloyamma Vittala Dasulu Praised “Swami pushkarini Nivasa Vaikunthanagaramu vakile nee yakaramu Nadakamita Pradane Lakshmisa”. Purandaradasula varu chekonu punyamule nee jeeva bhavamu in his “Nodu Nodu Venkatesa” keertan spoke about Yekadanu Sri Venkatesunde neevuniki Him: “Swami Pushkariniya Teeradalli vasa madida Deekoni nee teertha maditima kavavamma Swami vasa madida”. Harapana Halli Bhimavva, the “The pushkarini is Teppela Konettamma for God poetress in her keertan ‘Appa venkobana Netradali’ and Goddess worshipped swami: ‘Swami Pushkariniyali snana Thousands and Thousands of salutations to Thee Panavamadi Nodedanu.’ In the same way: Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha are thy ornaments “Swacchavada swami Pushkariniya”, she spoke about The four are Thy darulu the purity of swami. The Pure waters of Thy Pushkarini is seven seas Thy depth is the tortoise ‘o’ Koneramma Annamayya said, “Sakala Gangadi Teertha Snana The waters of ganges are thy Kadallu phalamulivi Swami Pushkarini Jalame naku”: “The The angels of this world are Thy water beings water in Swami Pushkarini is the teertham of several The upper worlds are Thy stairs rivers”. Around Thee are the leaves who are none other The sanctity and beauty of koneru is beautifully than saints described as given below. The door of vaikunta is Thy form The virtues thou receive are thy lively life Devuniki Devikini teppala Konetamma Thy existence is Sri Venkateswara Vevela mokkulu lokapavani nee kamma We bathe in Thy waters here. Dharmartha kama Mokshatatulu nee Sri Venkatachaletihasamala describes like Vamana sobanalu Purana in this manner - Armili nalugu vedalade nee darulu “Dravideshu Mahapunya ssevita Stri Nirmalapu nee jalamu nindu saptasagaralu dasairgirih Kurmamu nee lotu o koneramma Tasya Sringeshu Mahati Punya papa vinasini 54 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 55

Swami Pushkarini Nama Sarasi Konipovunganuka na krurasurunitoda Sarvakamada bahudinambulu ghorabandanambun Trailokya Vartinam Brahmam Stirthanam jeyuchununti; nammaya rakshasun dendam Swami Neehiseti jikkakane yundi chekkenganuka Swami pushkarini tyetannamadheyam cha vani sikshinchi ichatiki vacchi ninnun juchiti tatsmrutam Markandeya Samasthanam Teerthanam “Vrushabhasura came to this mountain Swamineeyate And searched for the syamakadhanyam Swamitvasya Pradhanaccha Swami While taking it away I fought pushkarini tvayam With him many a day - he Teerthanam Swami bhutatva duchyate Was not caught Swartha Namatah”. When I caught him, and punished him Bhuvaraha Darshan Came here and see you.” ‘Varahakshetra’ is an ancient name for Tirumala. Venkateswara prayed to Varahaswami asking Him Peyalwar one of the Alwars in his pasuram “Purindu to show the place to reside till the end of kaliyuga. We Madavedam” said, “Vengadame Melorunaal Mankottu should not tempt the poor we should not give room to kondan Malai”. The white tuskers saw their reflections the rich people. “I won’t give the land without money” on the ground and tried to fight with them thinking that said Varahaswami. When Venkateswara prayed then they were their opponents. In the strike, white pearls Bhuvarahaswami agreed. There is a proverb that ‘the shed down from their tusks. Seshachalam is a place horns that come later are stronger and more powerful where pearls are shedding down. In the ages past the than the ears that come earlier’. True to this proverb mountain where Sri Varahaswami came to after saving Venkateswara who came later has become more the earth from the seas with His fangs is Venkatachalam. important than Varahaswami who came prior to Him. Tarigonda Vengamamba narrated the conversation In due course of time, visiting Varahaswami before between Varahaswami and Sreenivasa in her book the Darshan of Venkateswara has procured a prime ‘Venkatachala Mahatmyam’. Varahaswami said to importance. Sreenivasa: In Sri Venkatachala yatra kannada Haridasulu Ee Parvatamuna vrushabhasurudu cheri described the visit of Varahaswami after bathing in vidivadi Syamaka Swami Pushkarini. Uragadrivasa Vittaladasu was Dhanya mendundinanda grahinchi observing the Vratam of ‘Notibeegala’ bathing in 56 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 57

Swami Pushkarini described like this. While making journey to Tirumala “Bagi Varaha devara Vandisi Tiruvarangapperumal climbed Venkatachala, visited Narasimha on the way, bathed in Swami Pushkarini Begadi Harake Kai Kondina devane.” and performed all kinds of rituals. and surrendered to Swami saying “Bhudeviyu “Vanattavarkum Allada varkkum Mattellavarkkum Ramana Adi Sri Bhuvaraha murthiya Sree Padayugakke Ichappiranai yallalle nan kuda Nalladuve.” Saranu”. For better that the angels, human beings the Prasannna Venkatadasa has prayed Swami in this inhabitants of hell, Gnana Varahaswami there is not way - even one good thing I have ever seen except Swami. “Sanuragadi Sree Varahagenamisi This is conveyed to Sri Varaha Lakshmi in ‘Tirumalai Tanakhila Punyavanu sure Goladanane”. balugu”. He called Swami ‘Swami Varaha Venkata Nayaka’ There is a reference in Venkatachaletihasamala as and felt utmost delighted whole heartedly. per Vamana purana: Tamilians consider Varahaswami as ‘Gyanappiran’ “Tatraste kolarupe tu and worship Him. He is Dharani vahudu, Adi varahudu. Mahavishnuh sanatanah Uddhrutam Dharaneem Dev eem He is the deity appearing to be keeping the earth on Alingyanke vidhaya cha His fangs. This is the rare idol. One leg is on the head Aradhito muniganaih of the serpent and the other leg is on rasatalam. Swami’s Tri sandhyam Sraddhayanvitaih” face which seems to be touching the chest of Bhudevi looks strange. Chinnanna descibed as if Swami is “In three twilight hours inhaling the fragrance of the breasts and the nectar of With so much of devotion her face. The face of Bhudevi looks like lotus and the The saints, Brahma Bhudevi and Lakshmi face of Swami is very near to her face. The lotuses in Worship Mahavishnu her hands are upto her ears vertically. They are touching The Primordial deity the shoulders of Swami and so the lotuses are touching Mahavishnu who is in spherical form. the ears of Goddess. That’s why chinnanna said, “Keli tamaralana Sruti Dvayamu Lankinchi”. In His upper Aswatta - Tintrini trees hands are the conch and the disc. In the lower hands, There is a tree on the southern bank of Swami the left hand appears to be holding Bhudevi. Pushkarini. Under the tree there is an ant-hill. In it Swami 58 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 59 has lived for ten thousand years and no one has noticed Uragadrivasa Vittaladasa, a kannada Haridas it. On the instruction of Brahma only, the Tamarind saluted to the Pushkarini and Aswatta tree as given tree has grown up here. This tree is well known that its under: shade towards any direction doesn’t turn. It stands “Teertha mahimopeta Swami Pushkarini still only in one direction. Chinnanna in ‘Parama Tata virajita Aswatta Vruksha Rajanige Saranu”. yogivilasam’ described as follows. Bedi Anjaneya Swami “uttunga bhagamuna na yahikulatpati yavatara maguchun Just opposite to Sri Vari temple in Tirumala there dirugani chinta kente bhakti mokki” is Anjaneya Swami on the mound. This swami is called Bedi Anjaneya swami. There is a story that Sri Rama “On the upper part of Swami Pushkarini met Hanuman for the first time here. There is another The shade unturned tamarind tree showed story that Hanuman being mischievous was put in its utmost devotion.” fetters by his mother. But in kannada ‘Bedi’ means “In Venkatachala Mahatmyam” Vengamamba worship. Pilgrims pray to Anjaneya Swami to have the described her ideas in this way: ‘Dasaratha is Tintrini darshan of swami as a part of their prayer. That too, Tree, Kausalya is ant-hill, Lakshmana is the Sesha He is Aradhya Daivam for the followers of Dwaita but Parvatam, Ayodhyapuram is the pious forest. Sarayu for Visishtadvaitas ‘periyattiruvadi’ and for Outtarahulu is Swami Pushkarini. Ramachandra is Sreenivasa, the he is Paurushavatara Murthy. The household deity resident of the ant-hill. In Dwapara aeon, Vasudeva is Swami stands on the mound to say that the devotees Tintrini tree, Devaki is the ant-hill, Bala Bhadra is are greater than Himself. Swami is Venkata Rama. So Pannagachalam. Madhurapuram is Venkatadri Hill, the presence of Hanuman is Anwarthakam. Annamayya river is Sri Swami Pushkarini. eulogized swami in many ways. ‘Aswatta tree’ is a powerfrul tree. Venkateswara Govinda Rajacharyulu in the premises of the temple who sat between (consort of ) and Bharati wrote commentary on Srimadramayana in the name of Govinda Rajeeyam. For every Brahmotsavam the (consort of Brahma) sat under the Aswatta tree called clothes will be taken to swami from here as per the to Him and asked money in secracy. At last an Govt. gifts. agreement was fixed. The promissory note was prepared. Brahma, Rudra became witnesses. As there Garudagambham was a rule that the witnesses should be in an odd After crossing the silver door in Tirumala Sri Vari number, Aswatta was made a third witness. Temple Garudalwar Sannidhi is adjacent to 60 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 61

Garudagambham. Its place is changed regularly and The convenient visiting places for the common at present it stands in the presence of Bedi Anjaneya pilgrims in Tirumala Srivari temple sannidhi. Breaking the coconuts, submitting the vow- Padikavali Tamilians call padikavali as “Periya offerings by the common devotees are performed here Tiruvasal”. It means the main door. The height of this only. tower is 50 feet.The tallest tower is the first tower. Annamayya sang of those who received boons History says that Tondaman emperor constructed this from the Lord. tower because Swami inspired him to do so. Devotees used to come either through Q complex or through “Garudagambhamu kada the special entry door. Tradition holds that those who kadunbranacharulaku enter through Mahadwaram (Main door) wash their varamu losageni - Sri Vallabhudu” feet in the continuously flowing water here and enter “At Garudagambhamu are bestowed the temple. The boons for many pranacharas” Anantalwar gaddapara (crowbar) This is called ‘Akhandam’. Here are four lamp After crossing the padikavali an iron crow bar posts. They are at about 6 feet high with the inscripted appears on the wall is named ‘Anantalwar gunapam/ idols of Disc, Garudalwar, Hanumanthudu and Conch gaddapara’. On the order of Ramanuja, Anantalwar, a on the four alloyed metal pillars. Vaishnavite came to Tirumala with his wife for flower offering (pushpa kainkaryam) - to Swami. He took a The devotees aspire that the lamp should always decision to build a tank for watering the plants of the be in lighting condition in Sri Vari temple of Tirumala. garden. He was the person who did not like anybody The lighting of ghee lamps is in usage only at Tirumala. to share his work except his wife. Even when Swami Many great people offered cows to swami for this came as a boy to help him there was no use. At last reason. They arranged a trust for feeding the cows. the wife of Anantalwar agreed for the boy’s co- On the days of Brahmotsavam the devotees take steps operation. The reason for that was she was a pregnant. to light the lamps always in their houses for 10 days. When the work of digging the tank was being When it is not possible they send money to T.T.D by continued at full speed Anantalwar smelling a doubt M.O. and in return they receive prasadam. what so ever lifted his head and saw the boy. He tried to catch the be the reason, the lamps are burning always at boy but it all went in vain. Then he threw the iron crow Garudagambham. bar at him. The bar hit the chin of the boy. In the 62 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 63 evening Anantalwar saw blood oozing from the chin “Tulapurushadanam”. The devotees pay money as they of Swami and realised that the boy appeared in the wished to offer when their diseases are cured, and are morning was none other than Swami. When he wept, blessed with children. The money equivalent to their Swami consoled him and asked him to hang the iron weight or to their children’s weight is weighed and bar on the wall so that all the pilgrims can look at it. submitted to swami. If needs be, the T.T.D will provide This story is found in ‘Venkatachala Itihasam’. coins. The secret of Tulabhara is not mere submission of the coins. At the time of entry into the temple every Annamayya sang of this story in his keertans. devotee will have to judge for himself. The main Anantaluvari cheruvu gatta purpose of temple entry is to maintain equanimity of mannumoyagandelise me natanalu mind. “Equanimity of mind is the Sun and Substance of all Vedas”, said Annamayya ‘Samabuddhe yandariki kondalalo nelakonna koneti rayaduvadu sarva vedasaramu’. kondalanta varamulu guppeduvadu || Flag staff Achapu vedukato Anantaluvariki The Flag staff is called “Garudagambham”. During muchili vethiki mannu mochinavadu Brahmotsavam, hoisting the picture of garuda and lifting machika dolaka Tirumalanambi toduta up would have been the reason for calling it so. It is a nicha-nicha mataladi nachinavadu || glittering pillar with Gold plating. The speciality of this “Thy pretensions are known to us pillar is appearance of “Garuda pratima”. It is strange When thou carry the soil to the tank of Anantalwar to see the name of “Vadagalai” in addition to “Tengalai” Thou art Konetiraya flourished on the Hill on the pillar. Thou art the showerer of boons in plenty The decoration of garudagambham in many ways Thou carry the soil very gladly and tying the bracelet to swami is well described by For Anantalwar and Vyasa Vittaladasa. Thou speak to Tirumalanambi “Garudakambhava sutta paripari vaibhava Very dearly. dinda Weighing place (Tulabharam) Siriya Venkatage kankana kattida raga”. The balance is seen near the Tirumalaraya Uragadri vittaladasulu said, mandapam. In sanksrit the balance is called “Tula”. In ‘Sarvaguna sampurna vaikuntha mandirana olden days the kings used to perform Sarvamaya Suvarna Stambhakke saranu’ 64 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 65

“Salutations to the pillar covered with gold this Sri Ranganatha swami’s place. Even after Darshan In the chamber of vaikunta with all the perfect quali they prostrate before swami in this place. ties.” Varada Raja Swami and prostrated to the premises of external place Sri Varada Rajaswami temple is on the south-east saying like this. corner of Vimana Pradakshina Marg. The idol of Varada “Brahmanda dodeyava divyanilaya doleruva Raja swami of about 4 feet height was installed here. Bahiravaranakke Saranu”. The sacred and important places of visit for Sri He resorted to Tirumala vaikunta mandiram, golden Vaishnavas are Sri Rangam, Kanchi and Tirumala. pillar and external premises of the place. ‘Varada Raju’ is the name of deity in Kanchi. Elders Vendi vakili/Silver door say that this temple was built to worship Varada Raju even at Tirumala temple. The door that appears with the covering of silver is called ‘Vendivakili’ or ‘Nadimi Vakili’. At the door Everyday Three times Nivedanas are held for there are images of Mahant Babaji and Sri swami. Every year on the birth day (Jayanti) of Varada Venkateswara swami playing the game of dice. On the Raja, Abhishekam, Archana are conducted on a doors are the figures of Dasavatara the, ten grandscale. incarnations of the Lord. The silver door indicates that Mahamani mantapam the devotees must enter the temple with a perfect purity ‘Mani’ means bell in Tamil. Mahamani means big of heart. bell. Where there are big bells, that place is called Ranganatha Swami Mahamani mantapam. Generally there will be only one bell in any temple. But in Tirumala there are two bells. Soon after crossing the silver door and entering One is ‘Narayana bell’ and the other is ‘Govinda bell’. the temple, Ranganatha swami appears lying on Elders say that they were on either side of the Sanctum Adisesha. Above and below Ranganatha swami appear Sanctorum, but now they are in one place. the idols of Sri Varada Rajaswami and Sri Venkateswara swami respectively. The Three vaishnava The bell is important for any temple. The sound deities indicate the importance of the three kshetras of the bell indicates that pujalu and Nivedanalu are such as Sri Rangam, Kanchi and Sri Venkatachalam. being performed. Inside the Sanctum Sanctorum the Everyday, early in the morning, the devotees bell that is rung is a different one. When the sound of circumambulate the temple (Angapradakshina) from these bells reach gantamantapam, the bells start ringing 66 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 67 from here. On hearing the sound of bells the kings of suns. His face is the beautiful face with a gentle smile chandragiri used to take their meal. Harapana Halli like the rays of the moonlight. His Forehead is Bheemavva described in utter delight, “After visiting decorated with Kasturi Tilakam and Kasturi. His nose Srinivasa with open eyes and after seeing the different is equivalent to champaka flower. His ear ornaments kinds of vessels of food-offering and after hearing the are the precious Makarakundalalu studded with the melodious sound of the bells, I have become sacred.” gems, pearls and gold. His throat is bedecked with ‘Annapurneyanode adhika gantiyanada kaustubhabharanam. He is the Lord of this world, the enna kiviga nanda O! deva’. destroyer of Nakra. He is Vikramaseeli, bearer of Jaya Vijayulu Sudarshan disc, Srivatsalanchanudu. He is garlanded with the gold, and gems, Padaka, Mauktikahara, If Jaya and vijaya are in the form of stone idols in Kalhara. He is in silk clothes, Trivalihara sobhitudu, Vaishnava temples, they appear in Tirumala in metal form. Vaikhanasulu speak of these idols as ‘Chanda the bestower of blessings”. The feeling we derive with Prachanda’. The speciality of these idols is that they His darshan is undescribable. His standing posture symbolise and say that the devotees should enter the indicates that His Foot is the only resort for the people, temple in perfect purity. It is not known surely when who are immersed in the ocean of difficulties. these ten feet tall metal idols were installed. Around Though it is not possible for the devotees to have these idols are arranged golden doors, one on either Darshan of swami from Hair to Foot or from Head to side. At present ‘Mahalaghudarshanam’ is being Toe, the Darshan of swami at least for a fraction of implemented from this place only. second is regarded (as) a great festival. Those who Darshan of Swami can go up to kulasekharappadi can have Swami’s There may be so many idols in temples in the darshan to a certain extent. Those who are blessed world. But the attraction and beauty of Srinivasa idol with the laghu darshan can have Swami’s darshan in is not there for the other idols. Even in Suprabhatam splendour at a distance. the whole body of swami is described as ‘Sarvavayava There are Panchaberas inside the temple. Among soundarya’. The elders say that we must see swami them Dhruva Murthy is important. Malayappa is from Feet to Head. procession deity (alterego). It is impossible to describe “The Head of Swami is decorated with a golden swami through words. He appears new in each and crown studded with gems with a glow of innumerable every kainkarya. Especially swami on friday is the 68 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 69 centre of attraction for all the three worlds. Tallapaka darshan of Vakulamata. The idols here were once in poets described swami very beautifully. Ramarmeda in the temple. Medu in Tamil means an ‘Kanti Sukravaramu gadiya ledinta elevated place. The idols in the medu can be found Anti Alamelu Manga andanunde swamini’ now at Teerthas. The retinue of Rama i.e., Angada, Hanumanta, Sugriva idols can be found here. Elders “We saw Him early in the morning say that these idols were presented to Ramanuja by a With His consort Alamelmanga” devotee. After crossing this place, yagasala is seen, Vakulamata which is intended to be used everyday and during After having laghu darshanam of swami the Brahmotsavams, sometimes back; it was Kalyana pilgrims see the big bells on the way, and cross the Mandapam where marriages are performed. Then compound, observe the golden well, climb the steps comes the sharpen stone on which the sandal is worn and reach the kitchen house of Vakulamalika. She has out. many names such as Pachana Lakshmi, ‘Vakuladevi’, The devotees usually like to have ‘Sree Vari ‘Vakulamalika’ and ‘Madappalli Naacchiyar’. Teertham’. There was a custom that the devotees used Yasoda who brought up Sri Krishna in to carry “Swami Teertham” to their dear ones just as Dwaparayuga regretted that she had not performed kasi pilgrims get “Gangateertham”. But there is no His marriage and she felt unhappy. Sri Krishna consoled opportunity now-a-days. May be sometime in the past her and granted a boon that she would perform His Teertham was perhaps sold like prasadams!? Vyasa marriage in Kaliyuga when He descends as Sreenivasa Vittaladasu in his song ‘Jaya Jaya venkata Ramana’ and she as Vakulamata. Yasoda of that day is now described how one litre of teertham was sold for 20 Vakula devi. As per Agama sastra she is called (old coins) paise. “Pakalakshmi”. “Ippattu Duddege Seru Teerthava mari Distribution of Teertham - Sathari Duddukatti jalige phalisuva jananino”. Some time back, Teertha Sathari were given to the Vimana Venkateswara Sannidhi devotees near kulasekharapadi. This ritual was held at Of all the idols in Anandanilayam, the special Sayana mandapam for some time. Owing to heavy darshan of one idol is of Vimana Venkateswara swami. crowd of the pilgrims, this facility was arranged on The kannadigas eulogized swami in many occasions. the upstair from which the pilgrims come out after the History says that when Vyasaraya was performing 70 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 71 kainkarya to Tirumalesa, he reinstalled Vimana Hundi Venkateswara swami. The place where the devotees offer coins and gifts “Salutations to the golden tower where Vimana is called ‘Hundi’. This is in the shape of Sreenivasa Devara” is installed, Vijaya dasulu eulogized ‘Dhamarukam’. Below the hundi is a huge vessel, a swami (‘Hema gopuradi Vimana Srinivasa Devaranu cauldron (gangalam) and it is tied tightly with the cloth nodi namisi’). above the Hundi. Its speciality is that it appears in the “Srinivasa is my saviour who is taking out form of a lady. Some imagine that the Goddess procession in Golden Vimana adorned with the indirectly offers wealth and sees that pujas are duly flowers” said Uragadri Vittala dasulu (Sumanasaru performed to Swami. Vaishnavas salute to Hundi hrunmadi dhyanisuva kanchana Vimanadali thinking that Swami is offering to Ramanuja the heaps Chelagutiha Srinivasanige Saranu). of gold, money and precious gems from this Hundi. “It is installed in Vimana with His consort of Sri Krishna was blamed on account of keeping Bhudevi, Varahaswami Pushkarini and teerthagalu”, syamantakamani with Him. But he got rid of the blame. said Guru Govinda Vittala dasulu (Bhumipati Then Sri Krishna thought that whoever possesses a Varahaswami Pushkarinyadi aa Mahateerthagala valuable thing was sure to be blamed. So He shot out Vimanasthitana). the gem with His arrow. The arrow fell in the place Prasanna Venkatapatidasulu said the same verse, where the hundi is now placed. Some say that if the and praised Swami. Swami is seated along with the gem is originally precious, it will produce gold. other angels in the presence of Bhuvarahaswami. The devotees are of the opinion that the darshan of this It is true that the devotees will offer gifts if their murthy is equivalent to the darshan of Mula Murthy/ desires are fulfilled. In olden days there was no hundi. Prime deity, The destroyer of sins and the auspicious Purandaradasa vittala said that it is good to see gifts deity. (offerings) coming in the name of God, from all the seven continents. He carved his words thus: “Tata anandanilaye Tondaman Nrupanirmite Vimanagre Sreenivaso raraja Bhagawan “Tappuganike kappagalanu saptadweepa Harih” galinda tarisuva.” It means Anandanilaya was built by Tondaman the He was surprised to see the gifts coming right from emperor. Srinivasa installed on the top of vimana is kasi down to Rameswaram and sang of the gifts in his none other than Bhagawan Harih. keertan, 72 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 73

“Kasi Rameswara dinda lilli in vogue now. It is also customary to submit the Gold Kanike Baruvadu chanda”. Crowns, Ornaments to the higher officials. Vyasa Vittaladasulu in his keertan ‘Jaya Jaya Tallapaka Ara Venkata Ramana’ said, that even if the devotees are Soon after crossing the room ‘Sabhera’ the room poor, he makes them get tied with vow-offerings. Until that appears is Tallpaka ara. This is also called the he receives those offerings he won’t leave them. ‘Copper sheets room’. Just as the plates of wave “Badava Ballidaraudu chidadale Avarinda offerings, (Harati) silver coated fire sticks, the silk Mudupu Hakila Kondu Mundake clothes are preserved in sabheras, the sankeertana Bidavodeva” sheets written by Tallapaka poets are preserved in Purandaradasu made a remark that if the devotees ‘Tallpaka ara’. It is a strange concept to hear the carving by mistake forget to submit the offerings or submit of literature on the sheets of copper in the entire world. less offerings, he will collect from them with the interest. Inside these rooms husks and copper sheets were being stored. With the efforts of Sri Sadhu Subrahmanya “Kasu Tappidare Patti Baddi Sastry and Prabhakara Sastry the sankeertans of Kasu Bidade gantu katti Tallapaka saw the light of the day. On the chest of this Dasanendara Bidagattinamma ara the idols of Annamayya and his son pedda Kesakki Timmappa Setty”. Tirumalayya are carved. In the past, special pujas were Prasanna Venkatadasulavaru in his keertan performed here. The lovers of literature stand in “Venkatesana Mahimeyahogaluva” described about the astonishment, folding their hands and should definitely gifts and coins offered by the people. Balaji abides to salute ‘Tallapaka Ara’. His word. He counts the coins and showers boons. The following is the keertan of chinna ‘Tappade nudidandanu, mudipina Tirumalacharya. Kappa venisi kumbanu Ninnu dhyanamu chesi nichanichandallapaka chappanna desastharu bandu sa Annamayyanga reduta nadigovayya marpane maduvaru’ panni yatanine chuchi patakulamyna mammu It is quite natural for Andhrites to submit different manninchavayya O! Madhusudana kinds of gifts addressing Swami as “Vaddi Kasulavada! Sankeertanalu chese Sarendalla pakannayya Apada mokkulavada!” If the gifts are beyond measure, ankela nee Sannidhine adigovayya it will be submitted to higher officials. This tradition is ankinche ne varivarandanani dushtundunaina na 74 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 75

Sanke deerangavavayya sarveswara Ee mata garvamu gadu nee mahime Padalandunnandu Tallapaka Annamayya meeku koniyaditingani Adarana muktundy adigovayya Chemunchi na swatantryamu cheppina vadanganu Oh! Look at Tallapaka Annamayya nemana badevadanu neramu lenchakumi who meditated upon thee Sri Madhava ne nee dasunda Sri oh! Madhusudan! Just thou sees Him Venkatesudavayya”!! See us and forgive our sins. oh! Look at Tallapaka Annayya in Thy presence Oh Lord! save my pujas performed at Thy feet Singing of sankeertans These are the flower of fame sprouted One Sankeertan is enough to save us oh! Sarveswara! Save the remaining Sankeertan in Thy treasure. I have become wicked save me relieving all my Oh! Lord! The value of Thy name is within my fetters. reach the fruits are more Oh! Tallapaka Annamayya looks at Thy feet Thy name is my money, look after me well Aspiring for liberation.” This word is not my vanity. I glorify Thy name The devotion of Annamayya on Srinivasa is extra- only ordinary. Though he wrote 32 thousand keertans what I didn’t say these sankeertans independently he aspired for at last is this. Don’t find fault with me for singing on my own accord “Dachuko nee padalakundaga nenjesina I am Thy servant Sri Madhava, Sri Venkatesa. pujalivi puchi neekiriti rupa pushpamulivi yayya Sannidhi Bhashyakarulu Sannidhi Bhashyakarulu are seen just opposite to Okka Sankeertane chalu voddikai mammu Hundi and beside the chest of Sankeertana. Bhagawad rakshinchanga Ramanuja is called ‘Bhashyakarulu”. As he is in the takkinavi bhandarana dachi undani presence of Sri Varu, he has got the name “Sannidhi Vekkasamagu nee namamu vela sulabhamu Bhashyakarulu”. The credit goes to Sri Ramanuja who phalamadhikamu made Tirumala Kshetra a perfect pious place. dikkai nanneliti vinka navi There is the idol of presiding deity of Ramanuja in teeraninadhanamayya!! the posture of vyakhyamudra and five metal alloyed 76 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 77 idols of procession deities in a small room. Every time prasadam has become world famous. It has become a the prasadams offered to swami, will be offered to Sri habit to ask for Laddu prasadam, by our neighbours Bhagawad Ramanuja also. when we return to our house. Bhagawad Ramanuja hugged his own tenage Of all food offerings ‘odu’ prasadam is famous. looking idol by himself and handed it over to Tallapaka poets and Haridasulu spoke well about these Anantalwar. food offerings. Sometimes back, cooking in Tirumala While climbing Tirumala Hill for the first time, Sri was done in earthenware. The direct evidence for this Ramanuja took rest for sometime at Mokallamitta. Here is the story of kuruvaratinambi, a potter. Receiving another idol of Ramanuja was installed. This deity is prasadam in earthenware is far better than that of called “Trova Bhashyakarulu”. wodden ware and leaves. During the days of prasadam Every month the celebration of Aardra star for distribution in the broken pieces of pot, ‘odu’ Sannidhi Bhashyakarulu and every year the birth-day prasadam was in use. In Tamil ‘odu’ means broken of Bhashyakarulu are being held on a grand scale. piece of pot. Giving prasadam in broken piece of pot Annaprasadam is called ‘odu’ prasadam. In course of time many Cooking and eating at one’s own residence is changes have taken place. prohibited in Tirumala. There is a rule that the food “Vuppu ogaragalane marisi prepared in the temple should be taken as prasadam Vuchita dindali Harava galisuva” and the people should lead their lives in this way. Salt is a must in food offerings. Ogiram means Afterwards with the increase of population, Monasteries/Matas have flourished here as per the food material. The sale of prasadam was well described customs and traditions of their respective religions. It by purandaradasula varu. is said that the consuming of prasadam within the reach “Anna vellava mari Hannuvattuve yella” of common men started here itself. With this pretext The sale of prasadam was also well described by different kinds of celebrations in the name of Swami Vyasavittala Rayalu. and prasadam as per the type of celebration are being conducted. Prasadam (Laddu) is available for those Kanakadasa threw the blame on the sale of who have taken tokens. It is said that sometime in the prasadams made of Appalu, Atirasalu, ghee kajjayamu, past, there was no Laddu prasadam. But later on Laddu Elachi, dry ginger and black pepper. 78 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 79

“Kajjaya rasulanu chappanna desalaku accepting prasadam is that the devotee feels pious and amme setty” satisfied with prasadam after having the Darshan of swami, receiving teertham and offering gifts in Hundi. “The heaps of kajjaya were sold for chappana states.” Pratima Mandapam Black pepper is used in the preparation of many After eating prasadam, and after washing our Prasadams at Tirumala. It is called ‘Milagu’ in Tamil. hands, and after moving ahead, we can see pratima ‘Milagu ogirai’ means the food material in which black Mandapam. Here we can see the idol of Sri pepper is used. Afterwards the use of mirchi was with his wives in the posture of increased and yet the black pepper is important in food saluting with folded hands. However great they might materials like pongali, Pulihora (food prepared with be, they are the servants of Venkatapathi. This thought Tamarind Juice) and dadhyodanam (curd rice) came arises in the minds of the pilgrims. During their journey, into use so that it can by easily distributed to the during their temple-visit or during the seva kainkaryas devotees. if the temple officials had committed any mistake, it appears as if Sri Krishnadevaraya is asking for An opportunity occured to prepare different kinds forgiveness on their behalf. of prasadams as per the traditions of Tamilians, Kannadigas and Andhrites. A bigger part of prasadam was allotted to temple servants and mirasidars and only * * * the negligible part was reaching the common people. After obolishing Mirasi system, the distribution of prasadams in Temples was improved. During Darshan hours, one thing that is to be appreciated is T.T.D is continuing to offer some prasadam or the other. Of the food materials, pulihora, pongal, kadambam, chekkara pongali are distributed to the devotees in a neat and manneredly way. It is good to accept prasadam of swami in the temple premises itself. Some opine that if it is taken outside the temple, it is not called prasadam. Sometime in the past, small laddus were reaching the devotees. The inner meaning of 80 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 81

Annexure Important Telephone numbers

1. Important Telephone numbers Tirupati code - 0877 2. Lodging facilities for the pilgrims in Tirupati Executive Officer ------2264160 3. The temples and visiting places in and around Joint Executive Officer ------2264877 Tirupati Chief vigilance & security Officer - - 2264702 4. Free facilities made by T.T.D Public Relations Officer ------2264561 T.T.D. call centre ------2233333 5. Accomodation facilities for the pilgrims at Tirumala 6. Sree Vari celebrations made easy within the reach Tirumala of common devotees in Tirumala Executive Officer’s Camp Office - - - 2263261 7. The places of visit, Teerthas in Tirumala J.E.O. Camp Office ------2263218 8. Important celebrations in Tirumala C.V & S.O. Camp Office ------2263304 9. Information for the pilgrims in Tirumala Security Toll free no. ------1800, 4254141 Mobile clinic ------2264576 10. other items. I Town Police station ------2289027 II Town Police station ------2289031 * * * Crime Police station ------2263423 Aswini Hospital ------22636015 Fire station ------101 C.I. of Police ------9440796799-100 Sri Vari Seva ------2263544 Accomodation facilities for the pilgrims in Tirupati Just behind Tirupati East Railway station there are choultries like Sri Govindaraja Swami, Sri Kodanda Rama Swami, Bhudevi Yatrika Vasati samudayam, Sri 82 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 83

Venkateswara guest house, Sri Padmawati guest house, Free entry into Museum - Free prasadam inside the Sreenivasam, Madhavam and Vishnu Nivasam etc. temple - Free meals under the scheme ‘Nityannadana pathakam’ outside the temple. Temples and places of visit in and around Tirupati Accomodation facilities for the pilgrims in Tirupati - Sri Govinda Rajaswami Temple Tirumala Tirupati - Sri Kondanda Ramaswami Temple Centres for allotment of Rooms Tirupati - Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple 1. Padmavati guest house complex - Tirumala Tirupati - Sri Lakshmi Narayanaswami Temple 2. T. B. counter, Tirumala Tiruchanur - Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple 3. C.R.O. (ordinary) Tirumala Srinivasa Mangapuram - Sri Kalyana Venkateswara swami Temple 4. C.R.O. (Free) Tirumala Narayanavanam - Sri Kalyana Venkateswara swami 5. A.R.P. Centre Tirumala Temple 6. M.B.C. Centre Tirumala Nagalapuram - Sri Veda Narayanaswami Temple Karveti Nagaram - Sri Venugopalaswami Temple 7. Centre for allottment of Sri Kalyana mandapalu - reception - I office - Tirumala. Valmikipuram - Sri Pattabhi Ramaswami Temple Tarigonda - Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswami Temple Sri Vari celebrations (utsavas) easily accessible for ordinary devotees at Tirumala Tirupati - S.V. Museum - Zoo, waterfall at Kapilateertham Service of lighting thousand lamps in the evening ‘Sahasra Deepalankarana seva’- Free services provided by T.T.D Sri Vari Procession in Madastreets There is free bus service from Tirupati Railway (circumambulation) every day in the evening. station to Alipiri - The rooms in Dormitory choultry in Garudaseva celebration on every Full-moon day. Tirumala, Free bus service. Free car parking in Tirumala - Free Foot stand - Free tonsure - Free Darshan during Sree Vari Processions in Madastreets during allotted timings providing facility - Free treatment in Brahmotsavams. Aswini hospital. Free Darshan for the aged and the Jayanti and Vardhanti (Birth-day and death day) patients - permission for Sri Hari seva - Facilities for programmes of Annamayya in Narayanagiri watching the spiritual, musical, dance programmes - udyanavanam (Garden). 84 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 85

Teerthas and places of visit at Tirumala a pre - plan regarding Journey - Accomodation - Sevas. Swami Pushkarini - Sankha Teertham - Chakra Teertham - Jabali Teertham - Pandava Teertham - 2. The Pilgimage to Tirumala should be in the form Akasaganga - Papavinasana Teertham - of a pious and devotional tour till the return. Sanakasanandana Teertham - Rama Krishna Teertham 3. Pilgrims should remember that they should not - Tumburu Teertham - Sumaradham - Sesha Teertham walk in the circumambulation path (madaveedhi) Dharmagiri Veda Patasala - Silatoranam - S.V. Museum with their foot wear. - Anantalwar Tota/garden - Mahantu Mantapam - Vengamamba Brundavanam etc. 4. Traditional dress should be worn, during Sevas. 5. Submit the declaration form if the Pilgrims are Important celebrations (utsavas) at Tirumala non - Hindus. Sri Padmavati Srinivasula parinayotsavam 6. Don’t believe the mediators. (marriage celebration) 7. Cell phones are prohibited in the temple. Sri Vari Pavitrotsavam 8. Don’t allow strange people into the rooms. Sri Vari Sikyotsavam 9. Remember that the Alcoholic drinks are Sri Vari Brahmotsavams prohibited. Karteeka Vana Bhojanotsavam 10. Pilgrims can contact even on phone with the Sri Vari Adhyayanotsavam person concerned and can inform their problem. Sri Vari Paruvetamantapotsavam Sri Goda Parinayotsavam (marriage celebration) * * * Sri Vari Jyesthabhisheka mahotsavam Sri Vari Pushpayaga Mahotsavam Informations for the pilgrims visiting Tirumala 1. The pilgrims should visit to Tirupati - Tirumala tak ing the co-operation of the officials concerned with 86 Tirupati Yatra Tirupati Yatra 87

Other aspects Bibliography Get sufficient information (about TTD) by Telugu watching Sri Venkateswara Bhakti Channel and Annamacharyula Jeevita Charitramu - Veturi Prabhakara Advertisements. Sastri Become aware of various aspects through Saptagiri Kondakatalu - Peta Srinivasulu Reddy monthly magazine (English, , Telugu, Tamil, Tirumala darshanamu - SVETA - T.T.D Kannada, languages) published by TTD. Tirumala Samayacharamulu - N.C.V. Narasimhacharyulu Get knowledge by buying and reading Religious C.A. Krishnamacharyulu books sold by TTD. Venkatachaletihasamala - N.C.V. Narasimhacharyulu Get a good chance to donate money for TTD Venkatachala Maahaatmyamu - Tarigonda projects. Vengamamba Hari Koluvu - Julakanti Bala Subrahmanyam * * * Kannada Sri Kshetra Tirupati - Adya Ramacharya Hari Dasaru Konda Srinivasa - H.R. Satya Narayana Rao Y. N. Gundu Rao Tamil Tirumalaikkoyil Olugu Varalaarugalum Tiruvilakkalum - Ganesh Murthy The Festivals and rituals at Tirumala temple - M .S. Ramesh The Tirumala Temple - W. Ramesan Tirupati Venkateswara - Sri. S. S. Sastri

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