TIRUPATI

THE TEMPLE

This holy shrine is surrounded by three high massive compound walls, and has but one entrance, facing the East. It is adorned by an imposing tower and goes by the name of Padikavali tower. On crossing this we enter the spacious Sampangi Mantap. The courtyards here are huge and they are put to many purposes for the benefit of visiting yatris, besides accommodating long queues. The life size metal statues of Sri Krishna Devaraya with his two consorts Tirumala Devi and Chinna are installed near the Southern wall. Adjacent to this lies the 18 pillared Rangamantapam, and to the west Tirumalaraya Mantap used for Unjalaseva for the Lord.

In front of the four pillared Mantap there are three big size metal statues of Todarmal his mother and wife. Their patronage to the temple, and devotion to the Lord are worthy of admiration. Hence the installation. There is Srimahal to the right of Dwajasthamba. The Mantap embodying the Dwajasthamba is beautified with many adorable gods like Trimurthi, Yoganarasimha, Anjaneya etc. Its sculptural beauty detains, wringing admiration from the connoisseurs, and veneration from the theists. The gilded flag staff adorned with many images is quite majestic, Crossing this we enter the Vimana Pradakshana Prakara. It houses Varadaraja shrine, kitchen rooms and golden well. Kalyana Mantap lying to the South contains many sculptural marvels, depicting gods in many poses, and it affords a pleasant sight. There are many niches on the roof adorned with beautiful images of gods. In the west are situated Yagasala, Vahanamantap, Deepalagudi, Pallakigudi etc. Visitors avail the Vimana Venkateswara darsan from here. The two tired Vimana is of Vesara type and gilted all over, and is called Ananda Nilayam. It is adorned with the images of lions on four sides and a dazzling Kalasa on the top. Tradition affirms that a single sight of it itself confers salvation. Its dazzle, finish, beauty really elevate the beholders. After feasting the eyes with the holy Vimana, we ascend a few steps to avail the darsan of Yoganarasimha and Ramanuja, installed in grand little shrines.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]