The Tirupati Temple, officially known as the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered and ancient Hindu temples in India. Nestled amidst the lush green hills of the Eastern Ghats in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. With a history spanning over centuries, it has become not only a spiritual epicenter but also a symbol of devotion and architectural brilliance. This article delves deep into the history, legends, architecture, and significance of the Tirupati Temple.
Ancient Origins
The history of the Tirupati Temple dates back to ancient times, and its origins are shrouded in the mists of legend and mythology. According to Hindu scriptures, the presiding deity, Lord Sri Venkateswara, is believed to have manifested on the Venkatadri hill (also known as the Seshachalam hill) during the Kali Yuga, the current age of mankind in Hindu cosmology.
One of the most famous legends associated with the temple is the story of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Sri Venkateswara. It is said that Lord Vishnu, in the form of a deity, came to Earth to fulfill a promise made to his devotee, King Akasha Raja. The king, during his hunting expedition, discovered the deity and constructed a small temple on the hill to house it. This temple later evolved into the grand Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple we see today.
Historical Records
While the temple’s origins are deeply rooted in mythology, historical records offer a more tangible glimpse into its past. The earliest known reference to the Tirupati Temple can be found in ancient Tamil literature, particularly the Sangam poetry, which dates back to the 9th century CE. These poems mention the temple and the rituals performed there, indicating its prominence in the region even during those times.
The temple’s significance continued to grow over the centuries, and it received patronage from various dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Chalukyas. Inscriptions from these dynasties, etched on the temple walls, provide valuable historical insights into its development.
Vijayanagara Empire
One of the most transformative periods in the history of the Tirupati Temple was its association with the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th to 16th centuries. Under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers, particularly Emperor Krishnadevaraya, the temple underwent significant renovations and expansions.
Krishnadevaraya, a devout worshipper of Lord Venkateswara, made substantial contributions to the temple’s wealth and bestowed vast tracts of land for its sustenance. He also introduced a system of administration and rituals that laid the foundation for the temple’s present-day practices. The “Dhana Annaprasadam” (free food distribution) scheme, initiated by him, continues to feed thousands of devotees daily.
During this period, the temple also received offerings in the form of gold, jewels, and land grants from nobles and devotees, further enhancing its grandeur and prosperity. The renowned ‘Rajagopuram,’ a monumental entrance tower, was constructed during the Vijayanagara era, adding to the temple’s architectural splendor.
The Impact of Muslim Rule
The Tirupati Temple, like many other Hindu temples in India, faced challenges during the period of Muslim rule. The region came under the control of various Muslim dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Bahmani Sultanate, from the 14th to the 16th centuries. During this time, the temple’s wealth and resources were often plundered, leading to a decline in its fortunes.
However, despite these challenges, the temple managed to survive, thanks in part to the efforts of the local rulers who continued to patronize it. The temple’s treasures were hidden in secure locations to protect them from invaders, and its rituals were carried out in secrecy.
Maratha Influence
In the 18th century, the Maratha rulers, under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji and his descendants, played a pivotal role in restoring the temple to its former glory. They provided protection to the temple and donated significant wealth and resources to revive its rituals and traditions.
The British Era
With the advent of British colonial rule in India, the Tirupati Temple came under the control of the British government. However, they adopted a policy of non-interference in religious matters, allowing the temple to continue its activities without much interference. The temple’s administration was left in the hands of hereditary trustees who were responsible for its governance.
Modern Administration and Developments
Post-independence, the administration of the Tirupati Temple underwent significant changes. In 1933, the government of Madras (now Tamil Nadu) established the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to oversee the administration of the temple. The TTD is responsible for the management of the temple’s finances, properties, and daily operations.
The TTD has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the temple’s infrastructure and services. The temple complex has seen expansions, including the construction of new guesthouses, dining halls, and queue complexes to accommodate the ever-increasing number of devotees.
Architecture and Iconography
The Tirupati Temple is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its architectural brilliance. The temple complex is a splendid example of Dravidian architecture, characterized by its towering gopurams (entrance towers), intricately carved pillars, and exquisite sculptures.
The main shrine, housing the deity Lord Venkateswara, is situated at the heart of the temple complex. The sanctum sanctorum, known as the Garbhagriha, is adorned with a gold-covered Vimana (tower). The idol of Lord Venkateswara is made of black stone and stands around 8 feet tall. It is adorned with gold and precious jewels, symbolizing the opulence and devotion of the temple’s devotees.
One of the most iconic features of the temple is the towering Rajagopuram, the main entrance tower. Standing at approximately 140 feet tall, it is an imposing structure adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings depicting various episodes from Hindu mythology.
The temple also features several other smaller shrines dedicated to different deities, including Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Goddess Lakshmi, among others. Each of these shrines is a testament to the artistic and architectural excellence of the craftsmen who contributed to the temple’s construction.
Spiritual Significance
The Tirupati Temple holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, and it is often referred to as the “Spiritual Capital of Andhra Pradesh.” Millions of devotees from all over the world visit the temple each year to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. The pilgrimage to the temple is considered an essential part of the spiritual journey for many Hindus.
Devotees believe that a visit to the Tirupati Temple and the darshan (sight) of Lord Venkateswara will bestow blessings, remove sins, and fulfill their wishes. The practice of tonsuring one’s hair as an offering to the deity is a common ritual among devotees. The temple also conducts various sevas (religious services) and rituals, including the famous Suprabhatham, Thomala, Archana, and Abhishekam, which devotees can participate in.
Apart from its religious significance, the temple is also a symbol of charity and service. The tradition of free food distribution, known as the “Dhana Annaprasadam,” ensures that no devotee goes hungry while visiting the temple.
Annual Celebrations and Festivals
The Tirupati Temple is known for its grand festivals and celebrations, which attract thousands of devotees. One of the most prominent festivals is the annual Brahmotsavam, a nine-day extravaganza dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. During this festival, the idol of the deity is taken out in a procession on different vahanas (vehicles), and various rituals and cultural events are organized.
Other major festivals celebrated at the temple include Vaikunta Ekadashi, Rathasapthami, and the annual Teppotsavam (boat festival) at the temple tank. Each of these festivals adds to the temple’s vibrancy and draws devotees from near and far.
Devotee Contributions
The Tirupati Temple’s prosperity is largely attributed to the unwavering devotion of its devotees. Pilgrims and devotees from all walks of life make generous offerings to the deity, including cash, gold, jewelry, and land. These offerings are considered a way of expressing gratitude and seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
The hundi (donation box) at the temple receives millions of rupees in offerings daily, making it one of the wealthiest religious institutions in the world. The funds collected are used for the maintenance and development of the temple complex, as well as for various charitable activities undertaken by the TTD.
Conclusion
The Tirupati Temple’s history is a tapestry of legend, devotion, architecture, and spirituality. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its ancient roots but also in its ability to adapt and thrive through changing times. As a symbol of devotion and an architectural marvel, it continues to draw millions of devotees and tourists, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual and cultural landscape of India.
From its mythical origins on the Venkatadri hill to its present-day grandeur, the Tirupati Temple stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the timeless beauty of Hindu temple architecture. It is a sacred journey through time, where the past and the present merge in a celebration of divinity, devotion, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.
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When did this temple came into existence and by whom. Who built this temple. Some people claim that this diety placed by sri sri ramanujacharya.
திராவிடம் என்ற சொல் இந்த கட்டுரையில் படித்தேன். திராவிட நபர்கள் கடவுள் மறுப்பாளர்கள் அப்படி இருக்க திராவிட கலையில் எப்படி கோவில் கட்டப்பட்டிருக்கும். கடவுள் மறுப்பாளர்கள் எங்கும் உள்ளனர்.
Some people have created the word thravida which is not exactly means the people who oppose the god , the actual definition is the shape of the letters in the tamil language , the reason for groping the andra, kannada, kerla as dravida for their language is the children of the language tamil (dravida)