a) Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Tiruchanoor

Tiruchanoor, the abode of Goddess Sri Padmavathi Devi, is one of the highly venerated places in the South, located five kms. from Tirupati, the temple dedicated to Sri Padmavathi Devi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara, attracts thousands of devout pilgrims every day. The Goddess, also known as Alamelu Manga, is the inexhaustible source of compassion and love. According to tradition, the Mother Goddess manifested Herself in the holy Pushkarini called Padmasarovaram in a golden lotus. The Venkatachala Mahatyam states that Lord Suryanarayana was instrumental in blossoming of the lotus in full splendour. A temple dedicated to Lord Suryanarayana is situated on the eastern side of the Pushkarini. The Padma Purana gives a vivid description of the advent of the Goddess and subsequent wedding with Lord Srinivasa.The manifestation of Sri Padmavathi Devi occurred in the month of Karthika on Sukla Paksha Panchami when the star Uttarashada in the ascendent. The Brahmotsavam of the Goddess is celebrated with all pomp and glory to commemorate the auspicious occasion of Her avatara. This resplendent festival celebrated for ten days attracts devout pilgrims from far and wide. The Panchami tirtham marks the highlight of Tiruchanoor Brahmotsavam. Turmeric, Tulasi, Silk Saree and other sacred presents are brought from Tirumala temple in an impressive procession on this occasion and offered to the Goddess. In an exquisitely decorated mandapam built on the banks of Padma Sarovaram, sacred bath is offered to Goddess Padmavathi Devi and Sri Sudarsana Chakra amidst vedic chants. The ten-day Brahmotsavam at Tiruchanoor is a spectacular event witnessed by her myriads of devotees. It is also an occasion for all devotees to receive Her benign grace in abundance. Temple programme and sevas sub-temples in its premises are :
1. Sri Krishnaswamy Temple
2. Sri Sundara Rajaswamivari Temple
3. Sri Suryanarayana Swamivari

Temple Important Festivals 1.Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple:
• Navarathri Festival(Dasara)
• Kartheeka Brahmotsavam
• Float festaival
• Vasanthotsavam
• Rathasapthami II.

Sri Sundara Rajaswamivari temple:
• Avatharotsavam for 3 days.

b) Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, Tirupati

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple is one of the most important temples in Tirupati. It has an imposing gopuram which can be seen from a distance. Saint Ramanujacharya consecrated the temple in 1130 AD. The festivals and functions are similar to those conducted in the Sri Venkateswara temple. The annual Brahmotsavam at this temple is celebrated in the month of Vaisakha every year. The annual float festival is also celebrated every year.

The sub-temples in its premises are:

• Sri Parthasarathiswami Temple

• Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple

• Sri Andal Temple

• Sri Salai Nachiyar Ammavari Temple

• Sri Ramanuja Temple

• Sri Vyasaraya Anjaneyaswami Temple (Near Dwajasthambham)

• Sri Tirumangai Alwar Temple.

• Sri Kurath Alwar Temple

• Sri Madhurakavi Alwar Temple

• Sri Chakrathalwar Temple.

• Sri Mudal Alwar Temple.

• Sri Manavala Mahamuni Temple.

• Sri Vedantha Desikar Temple.

• Sri Woolu Alwar Temple.

• Sri Anjaneyaswami Temple (Near outer Bugga).

• Sri Nammalwar Temple.

• Sri Sanjeevarayaswami Temple (opposite the Hathiramjee Mutt)

• Sri Eduru Anjaneyaswamy Temple. The important festivals conducted in Sri Govindarajaswami Temple are:

• Vaisakha Festival (Brahmotsavam)

• Float Festival

• Rathasapthami

• Bugga and Ponnakalva Utsavam

• Sri Andal Margalineerattam Festival

• Sri Salai Nachiyar Panguni Uttara Festival

• Sri Bhashyakarla Utsavam

• Sri Nammalwar Utsavam

• Jestabhishekam

• Thiruvadipuram Festival

• Thirumala Nambi Festival

• Adhyayanotsavam

• Thiru Nakshatram of alwar

• Manavalamahamuni Asthanam

• Vedantha Desikar Utsavam

c) Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple, Tirupati

This temple, which was built by a Chola king during the tenth century AD, is situated in the heart of the Tirupati town. The presiding deities are Sita, Rama and Lakshmana. The temple of Anjaneyaswami, which is directly opposite, is a subshrine of this temple. According to legend, this temple commemorates the visit of Sri Rama to Tirupati. The festivals of Ugadi and Sri Ramanavami are celebrated in this temple on a grand scale. Brahmotsavam is celebrated at this temple every year.

d) Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple, Tirupati

Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Siva in Tirupati. It is situated about 3 km to the north of Tirupati, at the foot of the Tirumala Hills. The sacred waterfall called Kapila Teertham (also known as Alwar Teertham) is located here. Annual Brahmotsavams and festivals like Vinayaka Chaturthi, Mahasivaratri, Skanda Shasti and Annabhishekam are performed here with great pomp and splendour. Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple, Sri LakshmiNarayanaswamy Temple and Sri Vinayakaswamy Temple on the Second Ghat Road are sub-temples which function under the control of the Kapileswaraswamy Temple.

e) Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple, Srinivasa Mangapuram

Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami temple is at Srinivasa Mangapuram situated 12 km to the west of Tirupati. According to legend, Lord Venkateswara stayed here after his marriage with Sri Padmavathi Devi, before proceeding to Tirumala. Annual Brahmotsavam and Sakshatkara Vaibhavam are celebrated in grand manner.

F) Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple, Narayanavanam

Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami temple at Narayanavanam is 40 km from Tirupati. Lord Sri Venkateswaraswami and Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru, daughter of Akasa Maharaja were married here. Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami is the main deity here.

There are four sub-temples:

• Sri Padmavathi Ammavari temple

• Sri Andal Ammavari temple

• Sri Sita Lakshmana Sameta Ramulavari temple

• Sri Ranganayakula Swami temple. In addition, there are five other temples attached to Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami temple.

• Sri Parasareswara Swami temple

• Sri Veerabhadra Swami temple

• Sri Sakti Vinayaka Swami temple

• Sri Agastheeswara Swami temple

• Sri Avanakshamma temple: The annual Brahmotsavams are conducted every year at the main temple, Sri Veerabhadraswami temple and Sri Avanakshamma temple. Navarathri festival is also celebrated at the Sri Avanakshamma temple every year. Giri Pradakshina (Konda Chuttu Thirunallu) is one of the important festivals conducted during the end of Sankranthi, once a year, with the utsava murthis of Sri Parasareswaraswami and Sri Champakavalli Ammavaru, and Sri Agastheeswaraswami and Sri Markathavalli Ammavaru.

The other festivals conducted here are:

• Andal Neeratotsavam

• Panguni Uttarotsavam

• Varalakshmi Vratham

• Float festival

• Anivara Asthanam

• Ratha Sapthami

• Ugadi Asthanam

• Sreerama Navami

• Chaitra Pournami

• Andal Thiruvadipuram Utsavam

• Deepavali Asthanam

• Vaikunta Ekadasi & Dwadasi

• Karthika Deepam

• Dhanurmasam

f) Sri Veda Narayanaswami Temple, Nagalapuram

Sri Veda Narayanaswami Temple is located in Nagalapuram, 70 km south-east of Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Sri Maha Vishnu, in the form of Matsya, killed the rakshasa (demon) Somakudu here, and retrieved the Vedas from the latter. The sanctum sanctorium houses an image of the Matsya form of Vishnu, with Sridevi and Bhudevi on either side. A peculiar feature of the deity is that it holds the Sudarsana Chakra in prayoga (ready for release). The temple was constructed by Sri Krishnadeva Raya, the Vijayanagara emperor, and is a fine specimen of the Vijayanagara style of architecture.

The sub-temples within the main temple are:

• Sri Vedavalli Tayaru

• Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swami temple

• Sri Veeranjaneya Swami temple

• Sri Bhakta Anjaneya Swami temple

• Sri Sita Lakshmana Sameta Ramulavari temple The most important annual festivals in this temple are Brahmotsavam, and Surya Puja along with the float festival, conducted on the 12th, 13th and 14th days of the month of Phalguna. During these three days, the sun’s rays fall on the main deity between 1800 hrs and 1815 hrs. On the first day, they fall on the feet, on the second – on the chest and on the third – on the forehead, depicting worship by Sri Surya Bhagavan (the Sun God) himself. The annual Brahmotsavam is conducted in the month of Jyeshtha.

The other important sevas conducted in the temple are:

• Float Festival during Surya Pooja

• Vaikunta Ekadasi

• Andal Neeratotsavam

• Bhogi

• Sankranti and Kanumu

• Rathasapthami

• Kanchi Garuda Seva

g) Shri Venugopalaswami Temple, Karvetinagaram

Sri Venugopalaswami temple is situated in Karvetinagaram (near Puttur), 48 km from Tirupati. The main deity of the temple is Sri Venugopalaswami with His consorts – Sri Rukmini Ammavaru and Sri Satyabhama Ammavaru. The temple timings are 0600 to 1100 hrs and 1600 to 2000 hrs every day. There is a sub-temple with the deity Sri Sita Ramula Pattabhishekam.

The important festivals conducted in the temple every year are:

• Annual Brahmotsavam

• Utlotsavam

• Vaikuntha Ekadasi (Mukkoti Ekadasi)

• Ugadi Asthanam

• Gokulashtami

• Teppotsavam (Float Festival)

• Sankranti Utsavam

h) Sri Prasanna Venkateswaraswami Temple, Appalayanagunta

Sri Prasanna Venkateswaraswami temple is located in Appalayanagunta, 14 km from Tirupati. It is believed that after Lord Sri Venkateswara married Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru, He blessed Sri Siddeswara and other sages here. The temple, constructed by the Rajas of Karvetinagar, consists of a shrine for Anjaneyaswami. The imposing image of the wind-god is worshipped by devotees for relief from chronic diseases.There are also deities of Goddess Padmavathi and Sri Andal here.

The presiding deity in this temple, unlike in the main temple, is in the Abhaya Hastha pose. Brahmotsavam is celebrated once a year at this temple. Fairs & Festivals

• Anivara Asthanam

• Deepavali

• Vaikunta Ekadasi and Vaikunta Dwadasi

• Rathasapthami

• Ugadi i) Sri Chennakesavaswami Temple, Tallapaka Sri Chennakesavaswami temple is located in Tallapaka village at a distance of 100 km from Tiurpati which is the birth place of Sri Annamacharya, the Sankeertana Acharyulu who was born to Sri Narayanasuri and Lakkamamba. According to legend, the temple was constructed and administered by the Matti Rajas about 1000 years ago.

The sub-temples of Sri Chennakesavaswami temple are:

• Sri Kamakshi Sameta Sri Siddeswaraswami temple

• Sri Gopalaswami Sameta Chakrathalwar temple Brahmotsavam is conducted every year during Sri Chennakesavaswami and Sri Kamakshi Sameta Sri Siddeswaraswami. Annamacharya Jayanthi and Vardhanti Utsavams are conducted every year.

j) Sri Kariya Manikyaswami temple,

Nagiri Sri Kariya Manikyaswami temple (also called Sri Perumala Swami temple) is located in Nagiri, 51 km from Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Sri Maha Vishnu killed Makara (a crocodile) and saved Gajendra (an elephant) at this place. This episode is referred to as the Gajendramoksham in the Mahabhagavatam.

The important festivals celebrated in this temple are:

• Kanchi Garuda Seva

• Kanuma Utsavam

• Rathasaptami

• Vaikuntha Ekadasi ((Mukkoti Ekadashi) Sri Annapurna Sameta Kasi Visweswaraswami Temple, Bugga Sri Annapurna Sameta Kasi Visweswaraswami Temple is located in Bugga, 56 km from Tirupati. It is on the outskirts of Nagiri, about 5 km on the Nagalapuram route.

The temple is on the banks of Kusasthali river. The main deities of this temple are:

• Sri Kasi Visweswara Swami

• Sri Annapurna Ammavaru

• Sri Kamakshi Ammavaru

• Sri Devi Bhudevi Sameta Sri Prayaga Madhava Swami

The important annual festivals celebrated at the temple are:

• Maha Sivaratri

• Kartika Somavaramu

• Pradoshakala Puja (performed every Thrayodashi which occurs twice a month)

• Kala Bhairava Astami (monthly)

A) HATHIRAM BHABA or SAINT BHAVAJI in Tirupati –

An ardent devotee of Lord Ram (Seventh Avatar of Lord Maha Vishnu) from Northern part of India visited Tirumala on Pilgrimage. His name was Bhavaji. He was so fascinated by the majestic appearance of the Lord that he decided to stay in Tirumala for ever having darshan of the Lord all the time. He constructed a Mutt (a place where the saints live near the temples) and settled there. Bhavaji used to have the darshan of the Lord at least thrice a day. Still, he wasn’t satisfied of his darshan. He used to look at the Lord unmoved for long. This continued for a few weeks. Temple employees have observed Bhavaji visiting the temple and gazing at the Lord continuously for longer times. Finding suspicious about his acts, they reported the matter to the temple authorities. Next day when Bhavaji entered the temple premises to have the darshan of the Lord, he was pushed out of the temple without allowing him to have his Ram’s darshan. He pleaded not to separate him from his Lord Ram. No one listened to his cry. Instead, he was warned not to enter the temple for Lord’s darshan again. Becoming sad and dejected, Bhavaji returned to his Mutt.

After getting back to the Mutt, he cried with the Lord. Hey Lord! My Ram! What is my fault? Is it a sin to have your darshan? You know it very well that I can’t live without having your darshan. Why you punished me this way? What am I supposed to do now?

Next morning, Bhavaji went to the temple as usual to have the darshan of the Lord. But, he was pushed out of the gate. A dejected Bhavaji retuned back to his Mutt. He was not sure how to pass his time without having the Lord’s darshan. He then took up a dice board and started playing the dice himself assuming that he was playing with the Lord on the other side. He himself used to throw his dice and the Lord’s dice on His behalf. In this way, he played the game all along the day and fell a sleep. When he was in a deep sleep at night, he heard a pleasant voice calling, Bhavaji! Wake up! It’s me, Your Ram! Bhavaji opened his eyes and saw the Lord standing in front of him. He couldn’t believe his eyes. Is it real or a dream? Amazed Bhavaji asked the Lord. The Lord replied that it wasn’t his dream. He really visited him to play dice with him. There was no boundary to the happiness of Bhavaji. A jubilant Bhavaji laid a mat on the floor and sat with the Lord Balaji to play the dice. Bhavaji defeated the Lord in his game. The Lord then asked Bhavaji to seek any boon against his victory over Him. Bhavaji politely said, Hey Lord, what can I ask you more than this? I am satisfied with your Vishwaroopa darshan. I do not need any material pleasure or wealth. Give me a little place at your feet to serve you. I need no favour than this. A pleased Lord blessed Bhavaji and vanished with a promise to get back for the game again.

Next day, Bhavaji excitedly waited for the sun to set so that he again plays dice with the Lord. Finally the wait was over. When the temple doors were shut at night, the Lord moved out of his Ananda Nilayam and visited Bhavaji to play the game of dice. After finishing the game, the Lord returned back to Ananda Nilayam promising to come back again. It became a regular practice for the Lord to visit the Mutt and spend time playing dice with Bhavaji at night when the temple doors were closed. One day when the Lord was playing dice with Bhavaji, He heard a voice of someone calling Bhavaji. The Lord asked Bhavaji to go and check it out. When Bhavaji went out to see if anyone was there, he found none. He then returned back to inform the Lord, but he found that the Lord has already left the place without informing him. When he picked up the dice board to keep it safe, he saw a diamond studded necklace of the Lord lying at the board. He picked up the necklace and kept it safe thinking that the Lord might have forgotten it and he would return when He comes back to play next time.

Next morning when Pradhana Archaka was getting ready to give bath to the Lord, noticed a missing necklace. He then took it to the notice of temple authorities. The temple authority was worried about the theft of Lord’s necklace. All the employees were called up on and enquired about the missing necklace. The Pradhana Archaka informed the management about the incident of Bhavaji in the recent past and straightaway raised suspicion over him. The temple authorities ordered to get Bhavaji for enquiry.
On the other hand Bhavaji was waiting for Lord’s arrival to play the game of dice. For long, the Lord hasn’t come to play. In the mean time, he heard someone shouting his name at the doorsteps. By the time he reached there, the soldiers got in and started searching all over the place. Bhavaji was surprised to see them searching all over. He tried to enquire what was going on. He was told that someone has stolen the Lord’s necklace. Bhavaji immediately understood what they were looking for and got the necklace he held it safely to return the Lord when he visits again. Is this the necklace you were looking for? Asked Bhavaji! One of the sainiks said, here you go. You have stolen the Lord’s necklace. You are under arrest! Bhavaji pleaded his innocence but they haven’t listened any of his word. They arrested and took him to the temple authorities. On enquiry by the temple authorities, Bhavaji told them that the Lord used to visit his Mutt and play dice with him every night when the temple doors were shut. The Lord had forgotten His necklace at my Mutt after playing the game yesterday. When I noticed, I picked up the necklace and kept it safe to return back when He comes again. The Pradhana Archaka of the temple raised his eyebrows and said; we have been doing all sorts of poojas and sevas every day to the Lord for so many years, the Lord hasn’t appeared to us and He appeared to you? Moreover He played dice game with you? Whom are you bluffing? Are you a greater devotee than us? There should be a limit of speaking false. Some of the authorities suggested presenting him before the King’s courtyard for justice. The next morning, he was presented in the courtyard of the emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya, as a culprit who had stolen the necklace of the Lord. After listening to the charges, Sri Krishnadevaraya asked Bhavaji’s explanation. Bhavaji explained all that had happened with him. The emperor felt him very innocent. He thought it would be unjust to punish him without sufficient proof and proper investigation. He therefore, decided to put Bhavaji on test. Sri Krishnadevaraya told Bhavaji that he will be given an opportunity to prove himself innocent. For this, he will be dumped with heaps of sugarcane in the cell and if he succeeds in consuming the entire heaps of sugarcane by the wake of the dawn tomorrow; he will be released innocent and if he fails to do so, he will be punished for the theft.
Bhavaji never perturbed. He had no choice but to accept the emperor’s decision. He was then taken to the prison cell and tons of sugarcane heaps were dumped before him and locked the doors of the cell. Bhavaji sat in the corner, closed his eyes and prayed the Lord. Hey Lord! I am innocent and you know the fact very well. I have been charged of theft and put on test of eating this sugarcane heaps. Hey Ram! It’s not my test. They have put you on test. They want to test your existence in this world. If anything I need in this life is a little place before your feet to serve you till my last breath. He left everything on the shoulders of the Lord and immersed in deep penance. A little later, a giant elephant appeared in the cell and by the wake of the dawn, the elephant ate all the heaps of sugarcane dumped there for Bhavaji. The elephant then awoke Bhavaji from his penance with its trunk. Bhavaji was surprised to see an elephant in the cell. When he saw the entire heaps of sugarcane were finished, he realized that his Ram has arrived for his rescue and immediately fell upon his feet and cried Ram…! Oh Ram..! My Ram…! You have come up for my rescue. How lucky am I? The elephant then blessed Bhavaji with its trunk and trumpeted at loud. On hearing the Elephant’s trumpet, the guards peeped through the key wholes and wondered to see an elephant inside a locked cell. They immediately rushed to the authorities and informed the matter. Meanwhile, the elephant broke open the doors and ran away immediately. Some guards tried to follow the elephant but it disappeared thereafter.
When the emperor visited Bhavaji, he was found gazed at the direction where the elephant has left, repeatedly uttering a word “Hathiram..!” When asked, who was Hathiram and how the elephant entered the prison cell? Bhavaji told that his Ram has come in the form of a Hathi (an elephant) to save him. Everyone who had assaulted him on the charges of theft exclaimed at the great devotion of Bhavaji. One and all had accepted his devotion to Lord Balaji is eternal. The Pradhan Archaka in particular begged his pardon for the assaults made on him out of pride and ego.
Sri Krishnadevaraya relieved him of all charges and appointed Bhavaji as the Pradhana Archaka of the temple of Tirumala. He happily obeyed the orders of the emperor as he got a life time opportunity to serve his Lord. Since the Baba Bhavaji’s beloved Lord “Sri Ram” has personally come to the rescue of Bhavaji in the form of a Hathi (an elephant) he has been named as Hathiram Baba. As a Pradhana Archaka of the temple, Bhavaji served the Lord for many years. He later sacrificed his soul to the Lord and entered into a Jeeva Samadhi. His body was cremated near Venu Gopala Swamy Temple on the way to Papavinasam on the hills of Tirumala. A Samadhi of Hathiram Baba had been constructed there and daily pooja is being performed even today. People visiting Venu Gopala Swamy Temple pay their homage to this great devotee of Lord Venkateswara. The Hathiram Baba Mutt had been built on the southern side of the temple in his remembrance.

Conclusion:

I hope many might have now really understood that Hathiram Baba’s real name was Bhavaji and he was called Hathiram Baba not because he was fat like a Hathi or Elephant but because his beloved Lord Ram has come to his rescue in the form of a Hathi, when he was in danger. The Jeeva Samadhi of great saint Hathiram Baba still exist near Venu Gopala Swamy Temple on the way to Papavinasam on Tirumala Hills. Pilgrims visiting Venu Gopala Swamy surely pays homage to this great saint’s Samadhi and seek his blessings. If any body had been there and returned back without paying homage to this great saint’s Samadhi in ignorance, please do so if you visit the Samadhi next time around. You can also find the Samadhi of many other saints all around the place out there.

You can find Hathiram Baba Mutt on the southern side of the Venkateswara temple of Tirumala near the main entrance built up at an elevated place, in remembrance of the great saint Hathiram. You can also visit there to know more about this great saint.

b) Swami Pushkarini

Swami Pushkarini was originally in Vaikuntam and belonged to Sri Maha Vishnu. It was set on earth by Garuda, for the sport of Sri Venkateswara. It is adjacent to the Sri Venkateswara temple.

Pilgrims bathe here before entering the main temple.

The mukkoti of Swami Pushkarini (the merging of over three crore teerthams in Swami Pushkarini) occurs on Mukkoti Dwadasi (the twelfth day of the fortnight of Dhanur Masa). Therefore, it is believed that bathing in the Swami Pushkarini on this day, is equivalent to bathing in the holy river, Ganges.

On the western bank of the Swami Pushkarini is the Sri Varahaswami temple, while on its southern bank is the Sri Venkateswara temple. The wooden-float festival of Lord Sri Venkateswara in the month of February/March and Avabhrudhasnanam or Chakrasnanam during Brahmotsavam takes place in the Swami Pushkarini.

Festivals at Teerthams

Teertham day on which the festival is held every year are:
Kumaradhara Magha Pournami, Ramakrishna Pushya Pournami, Tumbhuru Phalguna Pournami, Chakra Karthika Masa – Ksheerabdhi Dwadasi.

c) Sri Varahaswami Temple

Sri Varahaswami Temple in Tirumala is to the north of the Sri Venkateswara Temple, on the banks of Swami Pushkarini.

According to legend, Tirumala was originally Adi Varaha Kshetra (the home of Sri Adi Varaha Swami), and it was with his permission that Lord Sri Venkateswara took up residence here.

According to the Brahma Purana, pilgrims should first offer naivedyam to Sri Adi Varaha Swami, before visiting the Sri Venkateswara Temple.

According to Atri Samhita (Samurtarchanadhikara), the Varaha avatara is worshipped in three forms:

• Adi Varaha

• Pralaya Varaha

• Yajna Varaha

The deity of Sri Varahaswami in Tirumala is that of Adi Varaha, as it resembles the description of the Adi Varaha murti in Vaikhanasa Agama texts.

Padi Kavali Maha Dwara

The Padi Kavali Maha Dwara or Outer Gopuram stands on a quadrangular base.

Its architecture is that of the later Chola period. The inscriptions on the gopuram belong to 13th century. There are a number of stucco figures of Vaishnava gods like Hanuman, Kevale Narasimha and Lakshmi Narasimha on the gopuram.

Sampangi Pradakshinam

The path for circumambulating the temple is called a pradakshinam. The main temple has three prakarams. Between the outermost and middle prakarams is the second pathway for circumambulation known as the Sampangi Pradakshinam. Currently, this pathway is closed to pilgrims.

The Sampangi Pradakshinam contains several interesting mandapams like the Pratima Mandapam, Ranga Mandapam, Tirumala Raya Mandapam, Saluva Narasimha Mandapam, Aina Mahal and Dhvajasthambha Mandapam. Krishna Deva Raya Mandapam

After passing through the Padi Kavali Maha Dvara, you will find yourself in an open mandapam called the Krishna Deva Raya Mandapam or Pratima Mandapam. This mandapam gets its name from the pratimas or bronze portrait icons of the Vijayanagara emperor Krishnadevaraya and his two consorts, Tirumaladevi to his left, and Chinnadevi to his right. All three icons face the main shrine, with their hands joined in supplication.

In the southern wing of the Mandapam, is a statue of Venkatapathi Raya of the Aravidu dynasty, who ruled over Chandragiri around 1570 AD. To its side are stone statues of Achyutha Raya, who succeeded Krishna Deva Raya to the throne, and his wife Varadajiamma.

This Mandapam is believed to be built in later Vijayanagara times (early half of the 16th century). This Mandapam is full of exquisitely beautiful pictures of the Vijayanagara period like, Rama breaking the bow, Rama Pattabhishekam and Krishna Leela.

Sri Vaishnava symbols or the Urdhvapundras flanked by a conch and disc are carved at the top of the two main pillars of the Mandapam.

Ranga Mandapam,

also called the Ranganayakula Mandapam, is located in the south-eastern corner of the Sampangi Pradakshinam. The shrine within it is believed to be the place where the utsava murti of Lord Ranganadha of Srirangam was kept during the 14th century, when Srirangam was occupied by Muslim rulers.

It is said to have been constructed between 1320 and 1360 AD by the Yadava ruler Sri Ranganadha Yadava Raya. It is constructed according to the Vijayanagara style of architecture.

Tirumala Raya Mandapam

Adjoining the Ranga Mandapam on the western side, and facing the Dhvajasthambha Mandapam is a spacious complex of pavilions known as the Tirumala Raya Mandapam or Anna Unjal Mandapam.

It consists of two different levels, the front at a lower level and the rear at a higher. The southern or inner portion of this Mandapam was constructed by Saluva Narasimha in 1473 AD to celebrate a festival for Sri Venkateswara called Anna Unjal Tirunal. This structure was extended to its present size by Araviti Bukkaraya Ramaraja, Sriranga Raja and Tirumala Raja.

It is in this Mandapam, that the utsava murthi Malayappan, holds His annual darbar or Asthanam during the hoisting of the Garudadhwaja on Dhwajastambham to mark the commencement of Brahmotsavam. Incidentally, the prasadam distributed on this occasion is still called Tirumalarayan Pongal.

The Mandapam has a typical complex of pillars in the Vijayanagara style, with a central pillar surrounded by smaller pillars, some of which emit musical notes when struck with a stone. The main pillars have rearing horses with warriors mounted on them. Some of the best sculptures of the temple are found in bold relief in the Mandapam. The bronze statues of Todermallu, his mother Matha Mohana Devi and wife Pitha Bibi, are kept in a corner of the Mandapam.

Aina Mahal

The Aina Mahal is on the northern side of the Tirumala Raya Mandapam. It consists of two parts – an open mandapam in the front consisting of six rows comprising six pillars each, and a shrine behind it consisting of an Antarala and Garbhagriha.

It has large mirrors which reflect images in an infinite series. There is an unjal in the middle of the room in which the Lord is seated and festivals conducted.

Dhwajasthambha Mandapam

The Dhwajasthambha Mandapam houses the Dhwajastambha (a wooden flagpole encased in gold) and the Bali Peetha (seat for food offering).

A peculiar feature of the Mandapam is that it is covered (unlike in other temples) to facilitate the conduct of rituals in all weather conditions.

The relative positions of the Dhwajasthambha and the Bali Peetha are in accordance with Vaikhanasa Agamic traditions.

The Nadimi Padi Kavali

It is the inner gopuram in the inner entrance to the temple, which is reached through the Dhvajasthambha Mandapam.

Its wooden doors are covered with silver plates, and therefore it is also referred to as the Vendi Vakili. The doors are smaller than that of the outer gopuram.

There are numerous inscriptions on the inside walls, the earliest relating to the Pandyan monarch, Jata Varma Sundarapandya, who became king in 1251 AD.

Vimana Pradakshinam

The Vimana Pradakshinam is the commonly-used circumambulatory pathway around the central shrine. The vimana over the sanctum can be seen from this pathway. Pilgrims who have taken a vow of performing Angapradakshinam perform it in the Vimana Pradakshinam.

Sri Varadarajaswami Shrine

The shrine of Sri Varadarajaswami is an independent shrine located on the eastern side of the vimana. The deity of Sri Varadarajaswami faces the West and is in a standing posture, with a disc and conch in the upper right and left hands respectively. The lower right hand is in the Abhaya pose and the lower left, in the Katyavalambika pose. The name Varadaraja is given to this form of Sri Maha Vishnu as he is believed to be the giver of boons.

Potu

The Potu or main kitchen where the food-offerings for the main temple are prepared is located to the south of the Varadarajaswami shrine.

Inside the Potu, there is a small shrine dedicated to Sri Maha Lakshmi, who is also called Potu Amma (lady of the kitchen) or Madapuli Nachiyar. She is identified with Vakulamalika, who was, according to the Puranas, sent by Varahaswami to be the house-keeper of Sri Venkateswara, when he resided on the hill. Vakulamalika is said to have arranged Lord Sri Venkateswara’s marriage with Padmavathi.

In reality, she is regarded as Sri Maha Lakshmi, and is worshipped as such. She is worshipped during Varalakshmi Vratam, in the month of Sravana.

There is a similar icon of Sri Maha Lakshmi in the Padi Potu, another kitchen located in the Sampangi Pradakshinam.

Rice prasadam is prepared in the inner Potu, while other Panyarams like laddus, vadas appams etc., are prepared in the Padipotu.

The Main Shrine

The main shrine includes the sanctum and the three successive halls in front of it upto the Bangaru Vakili. It consists of Snapana Mandapam, a square hall. Ramar Meda, a rectangular hall. Sayana Mandapam, rectangular in shape, where the Ekanta Seva is performed. Sanctum or Garba Griha, in which the deity of Lord Sri Venkateswara stands. In between the sanctum and the Sayana Mandapam, is the celebrated threshold, called the Kulasekhara-padi.

Sankeertana Bhandara

Adjoining the porch of Bhashyakara Sannidhi on its western side, is a small room called Talapakamara or Sankeertana Bhandara. It was constructed to preserve the collection of sankeertanas composed by the Talapaka poets (Talapaka Annamacharya, his son Pedda Tirumalacharya and grandson Chinna Tirumalacharya), who were minstrels attached to the hill shrine.

Annamacharya, the greatest of the three poets, came to the hill shrine in 1424 AD and served the Lord by rendering songs that he had composed, during some sequences of worship. He was a senior contemporary of Purandara Dasa, and his songs mark a significant stage in the evolution of South Indian music.

His songs can be classified into three groups – Adhyatama Sankeertanam, Sringara Sankeertanam and Srungara Manjari.

The songs were preserved in the Talapakamara for more than four hundred years, before they were transferred to the TTD office in Tirupati for the preparation of transcripts for publication during the days of the last Mahant, Prayaga Das, at the instance of the TTD epigraphist, Sri Sadhu Subramania Sastry.

Bangaru Bavi

In front of the Potu is a well called the Bangaru Bavi. The site of the Bangaru Bavi is as directed in the Vaikhanasa Agamas, and it is constructed according to the Vijayanagara style of architecture.

Snapana Mandapam:

The Snapana Mandapam is also called the Tiruvilankovil. It has four central pillars, which bear sculptures like those of Bala Krishna, Yoga Narasimha and Kaliayamardhana.

A particularly impressive sculpture in bas relief is that of Sri Maha Vishnu in the seated pose. He is shown with four arms; the upper arms holding the chakra and the shankha.

The Lord’s consorts are also shown seated in Sukhasana on either side of him.

Ramar Meda,

It means ‘the elevated platform for Rama’, used to house the icons of Rama, Sita and Laxmana. These icons have since been moved to the sanctum.

The images of Vishvaksena and Garuda are the utsava murthis of their respective sub-shrines.

Sayana Mandapam

The Sayana Mandapam, also called the Ardha Mandapam, is directly in front of the sanctum (in accordance with the Agamas). This is as close to the sanctum that the pilgrims can get. The Mandapam is connected to the sanctum by the threshold called Kulasekhara-padi, after an Alwar who wished to be reborn as the threshold to the Lord’s shrine.

The main function of this Mandapam is to facilitate the performance of rituals that cannot be accommodated in the sanctum. The Mandapam is so called because it is here that the representative icon of the Lord (Bhoga Srinivasa) is ceremoniously put to bed as the last sequence (Sayanotsava or Ekanta Seva) of daily worship.

Garbha Gruha

The Garbha Gruha or sanctum is where the main deity of Lord Sri Venkateswara resides.

The deity stands majestically in the Garbha Gruha, directly beneath a gilt dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divya Vimana.

This exquisitely-wrought deity called the Mulaberam, is believed to be self-manifested, as there has been no known sculptor possessing the capability to sculpt deities so proportionately and beautifully. Further, no human being is known to have installed it in the shrine.

Ordinarily, the Lord wears a gold kiritam which has a large emerald embedded in front. On special occasions, he is adorned with a diamond kiritam.

On his forehead, the Lord has a thick double patch of upwrought namam drawn with refined camphor, which screens his eyes. In between the two white patches is a kasturitilakam.

His ears are bedecked with shining golden makara kundalas. The fist of His raised right hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra, and the corresponding left fist with the sankhu. The slightly outstreched front right hand, has its fingers pointing to His lotus feet. His front left hand is akimbo to assure His devotees of protection, and to show that the samsara sagara is only hip-deep if they seek His refuge.

His body is clothed with a pitambaram tied with gold string, and a gold belt to which are attached tiny, jingling gold bells. He is adorned with precious ornaments. He has a yajnopavita flowing down cross-wise from His left shoulder. He bears Sri Lakshmi Devi on His right chest and Sri Padmavathi Devi on His left chest. He bears Nagabharanam ornaments on both shoulders.

His lotus feet are covered with gold frames and decked with clinging gold anklets. A strong curved belt of gold encompasses his legs.

During Abhishekam, we can have darshan of Goddess Lakshmi.

The Ananda Nilaya Divya Vimana was covered with gilt copper plates and surmounted with a golden vase, in the thirteenth century, during the reign of the Vijayanagara king, Yadava Raya.

Pilgrims are not allowed to enter the Garbha Gruha (beyond Kurasekara path)

Kalyana Mandapam

Kalyanotsavam or marriage festival is celebrated in the Kalyana Mandapam.

The Kalyana Mandapam is architecturally similar to the Tirumala Raya Mandapam. At its western end, is a small mandapam carried on slender cut-stone pillars and surmounted by a vimana.

On the South of the shrine is a raised portion called the Yagasala where homams are performed in connection with Brahmotsavam and other festivals.

Sri Ramanuja Shrine

Adjacent to the Sangeeta Bhandara in the northern corridor of the Vimana Pradakshinam is the shrine of Sri Ramanuja, the great Vaishnava Acharya. It is also called the Bhashyakara Sannidhi.

Ramanuja was the architect of Tirupati and the father of the Sri Vaishnava community there. He designed the Nandanavanams or flower gardens of the temple. He was mainly responsible for managing the worship procedures and other affairs of the Sri Venkateswara temple.

The shrine was built around the 13th century. It overlooks the western end of the Tirumamani Mandapam. The Pandyan emblem of two fish and a hook is carved on the wall next to the entrance.

The right hand of the stone image of Ramanuja is held in the gesture of exposition (vyakhyana mudra), and the left hand in the form of boon bestowal (varada hasta), or of holding a book (pustaka hasta).

The shrine figures prominently during the festival of Adhyayanotsavam, which is a typical Pancharatra observance. Special worship is conducted in this shrine during Gandhapodi Utsavam and Bhashyakara Utsavam. The utsava murthi of Ramanuja is taken in a grand procession to meet Malayappa near the Padi Kavali.

Sri Narasimhaswami Shrine

Sri Narasimhaswami Shrine is located to the left of the front pavilion of the Ramanuja shrine. It houses a deity of Sri Yoga Narasimha.

Built in the 15th century, the shrine is surrounded by a polished mandapam. Artistic dance poses are depicted in the sculptured pillars.

Tirumamani Mandapam (Mukha Mandapam)

The first view of the Lord can be obtained from the Tirumamani Mandapam. It was built by Mallanna or Madhavadasa, who was the Chief of Chandragiri in the fifteenth century. The Mandapam is supported by sixteen carved pillars, which introduce a natural division of the area into three aisles.

The Mandapam serves as an Asthana Mandapam, where Koluvu Srinivasa holds court after the Thomala Seva in the sanctum, listens to the reading of the almanac, and presides over the giving of daily rations of rice. The recitation of Suprabhatam also takes place here.

There are two massive, inscribed bells, which are known as Tirumani or Tirumahamani, which give the Mandapam its name. It is said that these bells were used during the Naivedyam in the sanctum.

On the eastern side of the Mandapam is a small shrine dedicated to Garuda. On the northern side is a gangala or large brass vessel covered with a sacred fabric, for depositing all votive offerings.

Bangaru Vakili

From the Tirumamani Mandapam, you can enter the Bangaru Vakili to reach the inner sanctum sanctorum.

There are two tall copper images of the dwarapalakas Jaya and Vijaya on either side of the door. The thick wooden door is covered with gilt plates depicting the dasavataram of Sri Maha Vishnu.

The doorway is directly in line with the Padi Kavali and the Vendi Vakili. It admits pilgrims to the Snapana Mandapam.

Suprabhatam is sung in front of this door.

Mukkoti Pradakshinam

Mukkoti Pradakshinam is an enclosed pathway for circumambulation that runs around the sanctum and the porch in front of it.

In Dravidian terminology, mukkoti means the vratham had on this day is equal to three crores time of vrathams followed on any Ekadasi day. The Pradakshinam has walls on three sides only, with the eastern wall missing. Mukkoti Pradakshinam is opened to pilgrims only twice a year during Mukkoti Ekadasi (in the month of Pausha, Dhanurmasa) and Mukkoti Dvadasi (the following day). The doors are opened on the night of the eleventh day morning (early hours) after Thiruppavai and closed on the night of the twelfth day (called Margali-tiru-dvadasi).

From the Tirumamani Mandapam, you can enter the Bangaru Vakili to reach the inner sanctum sanctorum.

There are two tall copper images of the dwarapalakas Jaya and Vijaya on either side of the door. The thick wooden door is covered with gilt plates depicting the dasavataram of Sri Maha Vishnu.

The doorway is directly in line with the Padi Kavali and the Vendi Vakili. It admits pilgrims to the Snapana Mandapam.

Suprabhatam is sung in front of this door.

Sri Vishwaksena Temple

Sri Vishvaksena temple is located at the northern side of the main temple, in the Mukkoti Pradakshinam.

Sri Vishwaksena occupies an important place in the Vaikhanasa Agama. In Vaishnavite functions and temple rituals, Sri Vishwaksena is worshipped first. Vishwaksena is said to be the chief of the army (of the Lord) and is believed to protect the function or ritual from evil.

The deity has four hands – the upper two holding a sankha and chakra, the right lower in Avgana hastam, and the left lower on the hip i.e. Gada hastam. The deity of Vishwaksena and its worship are strictly in accordance with the Vaikhanasa Agama.

During the daily worship of Lord Venkateswara, the garlands and flowers (called nirmalya) from the Lord’s deity are removed and Vishwaksena is worshipped with them.

Before commencement of the annual Brahmotsavam, the Senadhipathi or Vishvaksena Utsava is performed followed by Ankurarpana. According to popular belief, Vishvaksena provides clearance for the function to start and looks after the arrangements for the festival. His deity is also taken out in a procession during the Adhyayanotsavam.

Sri Yoga Narasimhaswami Temple

The sub-temple for Sri Yoga Narasimhaswami, facing the west, is located in a mandapam in the north-eastern corner of the first prakaram. Yoga Narasimhaswami is also known as Girija Narasimhaswami.

The deity of Yoga Narasimhaswami is sculptured according to the Sastras. He is seated with two hands on his knees, and girdled by the Yogapatta.

A ceremonial bath (Tiru-Manjana) is given to the deity in the sanctum on Saturdays; and on the fourteenth day of the bright half of the month of Vaisakha (according to the lunar calendar),Swati Nakshathram the deity is specially worshipped on account of Narasimha Jayanti.

Sri Garuda Temple

The temple of Garuda (also called Garudalwar), is directly opposite the presiding deity in the Sri Venkateswara temple.

Garuda is a faithful devotee of the Lord and he stands with his hands joined in supplication (the Anjali pose). Being the Lord’s mount he is shown with outstretched wings, ever ready to carry him. You will find Garuda’s image not only in the shrine but also at the corners of the prakarams, mandapams and vimanas.

At the commencement of the annual Brahmotsavam of Lord Sri Venkateswara, a flag with the image of Garuda is hoisted on the Dhwajasthamba. It is believed that the Prasadam offered to Garuda in this temple, if partaken, will bless the sterile with children.

Every day, after completing the early morning puja conducted for Lord Sri Venkateswara, the Bali Bera of the Lord is taken out in a palanquin to give offerings to Parivaradevatas. The Lord is believed to personally supervise the food arrangements made for his subordinates, attendants and devotees. The palanquin called Sibika is considered to be Garuda himself. An utsava murti of Garuda is kept in the Ramar Meda along with other bronze images.

kausalyasuprajarama!

purva sandhya pravartate,

uttistha! narasardula!

kartavyam daivam ahnikam.

O! Rama! Kausalya’s auspicious child! Twilight is approaching in the east. O! Best of men (Purushottama)! Wake up; the divine daily rituals have to be performed.

uttisthottistha! govinda! uttistha garudadhvaja!

uttistha kamalakanta! trailokyam mangalam kuru. O! Govinda, wake up! O! Garudadhvaja (one who has Garuda on his flag)! Wake up. O! Kamalakanta (the husband of Kamala)! by rising, render the three worlds auspicious.

matas samsastajagatam madhukaitabhareh vaksoviharini! manohara-divyamurte! srisvanmini! sritajanapriya-danasile! sri-venkatesa-dayite! tava suprabhatam

May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee, O! Lakshmi, the Mother of the worlds, who dwells on the chest of Vishnu, the enemy of the demons, Madhu and Kaitabha, of attractive and divine form, with the nature of granting what is desired by those seeking refuge!

tava suprabhatam aravindalochane!

bhavatu prasannamukha-chandramandale!

vidhisankarendra-vanitabhir archite!

vrsasailanatha-dayite!dayanidhe

May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee, O! Lakshmi, the beloved of the Lord of Vrsacala, with eyes like lotus petals, with a bright face like the Moon, who is worshipped by Vani, Girija and Pulomaja (the wives of Brahma, Sankara and Indra) and who is very compassionate.

atryadi-saptarsayas samupasya sandhyam

aksasindhu-kamalani manoharani,

adaya padayugam archayitum prapanna

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

Having worshipped the morning twilight and said their morning prayers, called sandhyavandana, the seven sages like Atri, bringing the beautiful lotuses from the divine Ganges, have arrived to worship Thy feet. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

panchananabjabhava sanmukha vasavadyah

traivikramadi charitam vibudhah stuvanti,

bhasapatith pathati vasarasuddhim arat

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

The Gods, like the five-headed Brahma, the lotus-born Subrahmanya, and the six-headed Indra are praising the deeds of your incarnations as the Trivikramavatara. Nearby is Brhaspati who is reading out the planetary position (called Panchangam) of the day. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

isatpraphulla-sarasiruha-narikela-

pugadrumadi-sumanohara-palikanam

avati mandam anilah saha divyagandhaih

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam

The breeze, carrying the wonderful fragrance of the partly-opened lotuses, and the beautiful trees like the Areca and Coconut, is blowing gently. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

unmilya netrayugam uttama-

panjarastah patravasista-kadaliphalapayasani,

bhuktva salilam atha kelisukhah pathanti

sesadri-sekara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

The parrots in their cages are opening their eyes, and graciously singing, after eating the remains of the plantain fruits and the payasam in the vessels. Lord Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

tantriprakarsa-madhurasvanaya vipanchya

gayaty anantacharitam tava narado’pi

bhasasamagram asakrt-karachararamyam

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

The sage, Narada, is playing sweet music with his veena, and, in fine language, is singing praises of Thy endless deeds, gracefully waving his other hand. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee

bhrngavali cha makaranda-rasanuviddha-

jhankaragita-ninadaih saha sevanaya,

niryaty upanta-sarasi-kamalodarebhyah

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

The humming swarm of bees are sucking honey and emerging from the interiors of the lotuses of the adjoining pools, in order to serve Thee. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

yosa-ganena vara-dadhni vimathyamane

ghosalayesu dadhimanthana-tivraghosah,

rosat kalim vidadhate kakubhas cha kumbhah

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

While the womenfolk of the hamlet of cowherds churn the curds, the loud sounds and echoes emanating from the pots seems like as if the pots and the eight directions are quarrelling. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

padmesa-mitra-satapatra-gatalivargah

hartum sriyam kuvalayasya nijanga-laksmya,

bherininadam iva bibhrati tivra-nadam

sesadri-sekhara-vibho! tava suprabhatam.

The swarm of bees in the lotuses are friends of the sun, and are making lound sounds with a view to surpassing the splendour of the lustrous blue lotuses. Lord of Seshachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

srimann abhista-varadakhila-lokabandho!

srisrinivasa!jagadeka-dayaikasindho! sridevata-

grha-bhujantara-divyamurte!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam

One with Lakshmi! One who grants boons! Friend of all the worlds! Abode of Sri Lakshmi! The matchless ocean of compassion! One having a charming form on account of the chest which is the abode of Sri Lakshmi! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

srisvami-puskarinika-plava-nirmalangah

sreyorthino hara-virinchi-sanandanadyah,

dvare vasanti varavetra- hatottamangah

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Brahma, Shiva, Sanandana and several others have bathed in purified water. They are at your doorstep eager to see you, for their own well-being, though they have been hit with canes by your gods. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

sri-sesasaila-garudachala-venkatadri-

narayanadri-vrsabhadri-vrsadri-mukhyam,

akhyam tvaduta-vasater anisam vadanit

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Lord of Venkatachala! Thy abode is always called by several names, such as Sri Sesasaila, Garudachala, Venkatadri, Narayanadri, Vrsabhadri, Vrsadri. May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

sevaparah siva-suresa-krsanu-dharma-

raksombunatha-pavamana-dhanadhinathah,

baddhanjali-pravilasan nijasirsa-desah

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Siva, Indra, Agni, Yama, Nairuti, Varuna, Vayu and Kubera, with folded hands placed on their heads, are desirous of offering service to thee. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

dhatisu te vihangaraja-mrgadhiraja-

nagadhiraja-gajaraja-hayadhirajah,

svasvadhikara-mahimadikam arthayante

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

The modes of Thy conveyance – Garuda, the Lord of Birds, the Lion, Lord of animals, Adisesa, the Lord of serpents, Airavata, the Lord of elephants and uccaissravas, the Lord of Horses – are begging Thee to grant them their respective authority and power to serve Thee better, on your pleasure trips. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

suryendu-bhauma-budha-vakpati-kavya-sauri

svarbhanu-kettu-divisat parisat pradhanah,

tvaddasa-dasa-charamavadhi-dasadasah

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

The main deities of the assembly of gods – the nine planets – the Sun, the Moon, Mars (Angaraka), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Brhaspati), Venus (Sukra), Saturn (Sani), Rahu and Ketu are happy to serve even your servants and remain most obedient to Thee. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

tvat-padadhuli-bharita-sphuritottamangah

svargapavarga-nirapeksa-nijanarangah,

kalpagamakalanayakulatam labhante

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Lord of Venkatachala! Thy devotees, whose heads are sanctified by the dust of Thy feet, being in Thy presence, do not desire heaven or liberation, but are worried that another kalpa will start, when there will be no such glory to Venkatachala! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

tvad-gopuragra-sikharani niriksamanah

svargapavarga-padavim paramamsrayantah,

martya manusya-bhuvane matim-asrayante

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

On seeing the crests of Thy temple tower, the mortals, who are attempting to attain the exalted paths of heaven and liberation, feel like living on in the mortal world, as it gives them the opportunity of worshipping Thee. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

sri-bhumi-nayaka! dayadi-gunamrtabdhe!

devadhideva!jagadeka-saranyamurte,

srimann-ananta-garudadibhir architanghre!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Lord of Sridevi and Bhudevi! The ocean of nectar of compassion and other virtues! The chief of the Gods! The sole refuge of the Universe! The possessor of Sri (wealth)! One whose feet are worshipped by Ananta and Garuda! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

sripadmanabha! purusottama! vasudeva!

vaikuntha! madhava! janardana! chakrapane!

srivasta-chihna! sarangata-parijata!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Padmanabha! Purushottama! Vasudeva! Vaikunta! Madhava! Janardana! Chakrapani! Bearer of the mole Srivatsa! Celestial tree (parijata) under whom refuge is sought! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

kandarpa-darpa-hara-sundara-divyamurte!

kanta-kucamburuha-kutmala-loladrste!

kalyana-nirmala-gunakara! divyakirte!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam

Bearer of the charming and divine form surpassing the pride of Cupid (Manmatha)! One whose sight is fondly centred on the lotus bud like breasts of His beloved! The abode of auspicious and pure virtues! The possessor of Divine fame! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

minakrte!kamatha!kola!nrsimha!varnin! svamin!parasvatha-

tapodhana!ramachandra!

sesamsarama! yadunandana! kalkirupa!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam

Lord in ten incarnations of Matsya (Fish), Kamatha (Tortoise), Kola (Boar), Narasimha (Man-lion) Trivikrama (Dwarf), Parasurama, Rama, Balarama, Krishna and Kalki! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

ela-lavanga-ghanasara-sugandhi-tirtham

divyam viyat-sariti hema-ghatesu purnam

dhrtvadya vaidika-sikhamanayah prahrstah

tisthanti venkatapate tava suprabhatam.

The Brahmins, well-versed in the Vedas, are now joyfully waiting to worship you. They are carrying golden pots on their heads that are filled with the water of the Divine Ganges (Akasa Ganga), which has been rendered fragrant by mixing cardamom, cloves and camphor in it. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

bhasvan udeti vikachani saroruhani

sampurayanti ninadaih kakubho vihangah,

srivaisnavas satatam arthita-mangalas te

dhamasrayanti tava venkata! suprabhatam.

The Sun is rising; the lotuses have blossomed; the birds are twittering; the Sri Vaishnavas, always imploring auspiciousness, are waiting at Thy abode. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

brahmadayas suravaras samaharsayas te

santas sanadana-mukhastv atha yogivaryah,

dhamantike tava hi mangala-vastu-hastah

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Brahma, the great sages and the good Yogins as Sanandana are waiting at Thy abode, with auspicious offerings in their hands. Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.

laksminivasa! niravadya-gunaika-sindho!

samsara-sagara-samuttaranaika-seto!

vedantu-vedya-nijavaibhava! bhaktabhogya!

sri-venkatachalapate! tava suprabhatam.

Abode of Lakshmi! Ocean of faultless and auspicious virtues! Bridge to cross the ocean of transmigration (samsara)! One whose glory is known through the Upanishads! One who is enjoyed by devotees! Lord of Venkatachala! May it be an auspicious dawn to Thee.