Interesting facts about Tirumala Venkateswara Temple you need to know

Located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati Balaji Temple also referred to as Sri Venkateswara Temple, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in India. Each day, it attracts many devotees who come to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara. The generous offerings from these visitors showcase their deep faith and commitment.

Here are some heartwarming facts about this beloved temple:

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• Beautiful architecture
  The temple showcases stunning Dravidian architecture, with detailed carvings and tall entrance towers called gopurams.

• Self-manifested statue
  Inside the temple, there is a self-manifested statue of Lord Sri Venkateswara, made from black stone. The deity, known as Balaji, Srinivasa, or Govinda, holds a conch (Shankha) and a discus (chakra), with hands in blessing positions.

• Five deities in Garbha Griha
  The Garbha Griha of the temple features five deities in accordance with the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition. The primary deity, Srinivasa Moola Murthy, is central to daily rituals. Bhoga Srinivasa Murthy, a replica of the Moola Murthy, receives offerings and is placed in a golden cradle for most of the year. Ugra Srinivasa Murthy is taken out in procession on auspicious occasions, while Koluvu Srinivasa Murthy oversees the temple's finances from the Tirumamani Mandapam. Malayappa Swamy, a naturally formed idol, participates in processions during special festivals.

• Famous laddu prasadam
  The Tirupati laddu is offered to devotees after their prayers. This practice started in 1715. The laddu is made in the temple kitchen, where about 650 cooks work.

• Temple History
  The construction of Tirupati Balaji Temple began around 300 AD, with many rulers contributing to its development. In the mid-18th century, a Maratha General named Raghoji I Bhonsale set up a committee to manage the temple.

• Special recognition
  In 2009, the laddu received a Geographical Indication tag, which means only the temple can make it, preventing others from producing or selling it.

(With inputs from agencies)