Lord Venkateshwara, the protector and preserver of the universe, also known as Balaji, is one of the most beloved and revered deities in Hinduism. He draws millions of devotees to the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple every year. While this temple is renowned for its grandeur and spiritual significance, there are several fascinating, lesser-known facts and unique traditions associated with Lord Venkateshwara that often go unnoticed.
Lord Venkateshwara
Lord Venkateswara, a revered manifestation of Lord Vishnu, is part of the divine Trinity and embodies the power of Sustenance. Known as “Kaliyuga Varada,” he is particularly significant in this age of Kali, always near to his devotees and ever prepared to bestow blessings and protection. He is also affectionately called Balaji and Govinda. Worshipped as the protector and guardian of all life, Lord Venkateshwara is not only the saviour of humans but extends his divine grace to all living beings.
Unknown Facts about Lord Venkateshwara
Srivari Padalu at Tirumala: At Narayanagiri, a part of Tirumala, devotees revere the sacred footprints known as "Srivari Padalu," believed to be the imprints of Lord Venkateshwara himself.
Bilva Leaf Worship: During the Thiruvathirai star in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January), a time traditionally associated with Lord Shiva, Lord Venkateshwara at Tirumala is offered a special puja with bilva leaves.
Shiva Symbol on Perumal: At the Nelliappar Temple in Tirunelveli, the Utsava Murti (festival idol) of Lord Perumal is uniquely adorned with a Shiva Linga symbol on his chest.
Lord Rama with Conch and Discus: In Bhadrachalam, Andhra Pradesh, Lord Rama is distinctively depicted holding a conch (shanku) and discus (chakra), an unusual representation for Rama, who is typically shown without these symbols.
Six-Time Worship: In accordance with Vaikhanasa traditions, the deity is worshipped six times a day. These rituals take place during Ushakala (early morning), Prathakala (mid-morning), Madhayaka (midday), Aparaha (afternoon), Sandhyakala (evening), and at midnight.
Three-Eyed Perumal: At Singaperumal Koil near Chengalpattu, Lord Narasimha, a form of Lord Vishnu, is uniquely depicted with three eyes, much like Lord Shiva. This rare representation symbolizes the all-seeing nature of the deity and enhances the fierce aspect of Narasimha, who is worshipped as a protector of devotees.
Athi Varadar of Kanchipuram: The revered deity Athi Varadar at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram remains submerged in the sacred Ananthasaras tank and is brought out for worship once every 40 years, with the next event scheduled for 2059.
Seven-Headed Adisesha: At the Ranganatha Temple in Srirangapatna, Karnataka, Adisesha, the divine serpent, is depicted with seven heads, a distinctive and rare portrayal.
Lamp Light Perumal: At the Vilakoli Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, Lord Perumal is believed to exist in the form of a divine light, and devotees worship him by lighting lamps, especially during the Karthigai festival.
Idol of Tirupati Venkateshwara: The idol of Shri Tirupati Balaji is uniquely resistant to the chemical reactions of raw camphor (Pachai Karpooram), which typically causes cracks in stone. Despite being constantly smeared with camphor, the idol remains unaffected, showing no signs of damage.
Sandalwood Perumal: In Karungulam, Lord Perumal is worshipped as a three-foot tall figure made entirely of sandalwood. Adorned with the conch and discus, this deity is a symbol of divine elegance and simplicity, representing the cooling and calming attributes of sandalwood in spiritual practices.
Mircalous stone Idol: The Lakshmi Narayana Temple, situated in Devadurga Taluk of Raichur District, Karnataka, is renowned for its miraculous stone idol. When hot water is poured on the idol's head, it cools before reaching the feet, while cold water poured on the feet starts to boil. This fascinating temple, known for its unique phenomenon, is believed to be over 2,000 years old.
In conclusion, the unknown and fascinating facts surrounding Lord Venkateshwara reveal the divine mysteries and rich history of some of the most revered temples dedicated to Him. Visiting these sacred places will not only deepen your connection to the Lord but also open your eyes to the marvels of tradition and devotion that continue to thrive.
As Purattasi, the auspicious month dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, approaches, we at Om Spiritual Shop invite you to enhance your devotion with our specially curated Perumal Vilakku and Perumal Patham combo. Bring the divine presence of Lord Venkateshwara into your home with these sacred items, perfect for your Purattasi prayers and rituals. Illuminate your space with the light of the Perumal Vilakku and feel grounded in the divine energy with Perumal Patham.