Amazing facts about Tirumala Deity

 

 

 Excerpts from Srivari Brahmotsavam publication of The Hindu..

1. The first reference to the heavenly abode of Lord Venkateshwara dates back to 2nd century in the Silappathikaram
2. Why is the annual festival called Brahmotsavam? - Lord Brahma himself descends on Tirumala to conduct the festival every year - A small blank chariot "Brahma ratham" moves ahead of the processions during the utsavam.
3. The day before the Brahmotsavam, the commander in chief of the Lord's army - Sri Vishwaksena goes around the temple town supervising the arrangments, and in the course of his inspection he collects the sacred earth "Mritsangrahanam" required for the yagasala inside the temple.
4. On the 6th night of the Brahmotsavam - only women are allowed to pull the swarna ratham!
5. The Brahmotsavam begins with Dwajarohanam when the sacred yellow flag with imprint of Lord Garuda is ceremoniously hoisled atop the dwajastahmabam
6. What are the seven hills? - Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Vrishabadri, Anjanadri, Narayandri and Venkatadri - and the temple is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri,thus earning its name, Thiru Vengadam!
7. It is believed that Lord Mahavishnu directly descended and self-manifested himself(swayambu) to the Tirumala hills from his heavenly abode of Vaikuntham. The sanctum sanctorum which houses this awe inspiring idol is called Ananda Nilayam.
8. The Murthy stands directly beneath the Anandha Nilayam Vimanam and at any point of time the deity is decorated with no leass than 2 quintals of precious ornaments!