Unknown Facts About Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple

Nestled in the lush green Tirumala hills, the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple stands as a testimony to India's profound spiritual history and tradition. This divine abode, known for its majestic architectural grandeur and vibrant religious practices, draws millions of devotees from all corners of the globe each year.

As we explore this sacred site, let's delve into the lesser-known facts about the temple that reveal its ancient origins, the deities it is associated with, and the rituals practised.

An Ancient Marvel

Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, also known as the Tirumala Temple, is one of the world's oldest active Hindu worship sites. Scholars estimate its origin back to around 300 AD. The first mention of the temple was in the Sangam literature of the 1st century AD, giving it a history steeped in thousands of years of devotion and spiritual reverence.

The Highest Gathering of Devotees

The temple, located atop the Tirumala hills in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, attracts millions of pilgrims every year. With around 40 million visitors annually, it is considered the most-visited place of worship globally.

The Shrine of Lord Venkateswara

The main deity worshipped here is Lord Venkateswara, a form of the Hindu God Vishnu. Believed to be a powerful god who fulfils wishes and grants prosperity, devotees offer prayers and make vows in His name. The statue of the deity is known to have real human hair, which remains a mystery to this day.

A Ritualistic Wealth

The Tirumala Temple is also known for its ritual of 'Tonsuring', where devotees shave their heads as an offering to the deity. The hair collected from this process is auctioned off, contributing significantly to the temple's wealth.

An Architectural Grandeur