Special story - Ananda Nilaya gopuram – a class by itself
Srivari Temple (TIRUMALA) .September 30: The darshan of gold plated three storey gopuram (tower)above the divine idol of Lord Venkateswara in the Srivari Temple popularly known as Ananda Nilaya Vimanam is considered as divine as that of Lord Venkateswara himself .
A hundred years ago the pilgrims who came to Tirumala satisfied themselves with the darshan of the Ananda Nilaya Gopuram whenever the temple was closed for the day .In those days the temple in the thick of forests opened in morning and closed in evening .
There was a proposal in the TTD last year to provide stair cases and a platform to provide ‘ Vimana Venkateswara Darshanam ‘ for those who could not wait for their turn in ques for darshan of Venkateswara swamy.
What is the gopuram
The Ananda Nilayam Gopuram is also comparable to the waist and navel of the lord Venkateswara which has become the abode of the consorts Sri Devi and Bhudevi .
The 65.2 feet tall Ananda Nilayam gopuram is rectacular upto a height of 27.4 feet and later is in circular module with a huge basement of about 15-20 feet
The first floor of 10.9 feet in rectangular format does not have anystatues but onlygreen vines, and leafy environment .The second floor of the reactangular gopuram of 10.9 feet has nearly 40 idols perched on four sides . The gold idol of the Venkateswara swami on the north-east side of the gopuram with a silver arch around it is the Vimana Venkteswaraswamy.
The third floor of the gopuram of 16.3 feet has nearly 20 idols, mostly in gold in various avatars of the Hindu Vaishnava Mythology. There are eight golden idols of Lions on all the sides.
The last region of five feet to the top level of Kalasam on the gopuram is decked up with golden leafs, vines, swans and birds.
Legend of Ananda Nilayam:
The first phase of the gopuram was built in 839 by the Pallava king Vijayadanti Vikrama Varma who also provided gold plating for it . It was completed in 1262 by the Pandyan king Sundara Pandya Jata Varma . in 1359 the Saluva king Mangideva Maharaju installed a new gold kalasam on the gopuram . in 1417 the Minister Chandragiri Malla of Vijayanagara Kingdom rejuvenated the Ananda Nilaya gopuram as part of various construction of mandapams in the complex.
It was during the reign of Sri Krishnadeva Raya between 1513-1521 that the Srivari temple was completed refurbished with gold vessels, plates and ornaments including a huge crown and necklaces of various shapes and sizes . History says that by spending 30,000 gold coins Sri Krishna deva raya gave another gold coating to the Ananda Nlayam .
Lastly in 1908, the Mahant Ramalakshman Das reinstalled a golden Kalasam .In the year 1958 a ten day mega event was held from August 18-27 th,the Ananda Nilayam vimanam was refurbished and reworked with more idols, decorative elements etc. as part of the Maha-samprokshanam
The concept of Vimana Venkateswara Darshanam has been defended by the Srivari temple chief priest Sri AV Ramana Dikshitulu .Quoting temple legends like Venkatachala Mahatyam, Vimanarchana Kalpam the Vimana Venkateswara he said Lord Venkateswara landed on Earth in Kaliyuga as Swayambhu with his two consorts, Sri Devi and Bhu Devi in "Tridala Vimanam" .The temple priests offer the first prayers of the day to Sri Vimana Venkateswara before awakening the presiding deity of Lord Venkateswara inside the sanctum sanctorum he added.
TTD EARNS 30CR ADDITIONAL INCOME OUT OF e-AUCTION OF HUMAN HAIR
TIRUMALA, SEP 22 : The maiden e-Auctioning of human hair has fetched TTD an additional revenue of Rs.30cr and even the conventional bid received a whopping hike of 27% as against the previous bid which fetched only 2% hike.
The entire process of e-Auctioning of human hair carried out in a transparent manner with nearly 49 bidders from across the nation taking part in this bid which held between 10am to 8pm on Thursday.
To avoid the manipulation by some bidders who formed ring causing serious damage to the coffers of TTD on human hair sale, TTD for the first time entered the e-Auction to have a transparent sale of human hair. Earlier MSTC inspected the existing stock thoroughly from 12th of September to 21st of September and given green signal towards the e-Auctioning of human hair.
The details of e-auction conducted are as follows,
1st variety (31” above) (TTD Upset price (Rs 12,000/- per kg)
First variety qty available – 11,561 kg.
Qty provisionally sold in e-auction - 11,500 kg.
Price range 1,32,667(which is mistakenly quoted by somebody) (20,161 per kg to 20,000 per kg.
Total amount to be fetched = Rs 23.25 crores excluding the mistaken rate)
2nd variety (16” to 30”)(TTD Upset price – Rs 11,000/- per kg)
Qty. available--- 21,387 kg
Qty provisionally sold in auction ------ 21,300 kg
Price range (18,650/- per kg to 18,500 per kg)
Total amount to be fetched = Rs 39.49 crores
3rd variety (10” to 15”) (TTD Upset price – Rs 5,000/- per kg)
Qty. available ----1,30,809 kg
Qty. provisionally sold in auction – 1,30,800 kg
Price range ---- Rs. 5468/- to 5000/- per kg.
Amount to be fetched - Rs. 66.37 crores.
4th variety (5” to 9”) (TTD upset price – Rs 4000/- per kg)
Qty available ---6083 kg.
Qty provisionally sold ----- 900 kg.
Price range Rs 4001 to 4006/- per kg
Amount to be fetched – Rs. 0.36 crores
5th variety (less than 5”) (TTD upset price = Rs. 40/- per kg)
Qty available – 2,99,734 kg.
Qty provisionally sold – 2,99,700 kg
Price ranage Rs 77.00 to 80.00
Amount to be fetched – Rs. 2.31 crores
Grey hair (TTD upset price – Rs. 9000/- per kg)
Qty available 1525 kg
Qty provisionally sold – 1500 kg
Price range 9360/- to 9350 per kg.
Amount to be fetched -- 1.40 crores.
Total amount to be fetched for the above 4,65,000 kg of all varieties ---- around Rs. 133 crores
CANCELLED PURABHISHEKAM TICKETS UNDER CURRENT BOOKING FROM NOVEMBER 1
TIRUMALA, SEP 19: TTD has appealed to the grihastas who had booked some of the rare tickets like poorabhishekam and melchat vastram well in advance to report on the previous day of seva before 8pm at Arjitha Seva office in Tirumala. If any grihasta fail to report before the stipulated time, then the respective ticket shall be issued under current booking through randomized numbering system.This new system will come into existence with effect from November 1 this year.
The TTD, with a noble enable aim to enable more number of pilgrims to book rare sevas like poorabhishekama and melchat vastram tickets has cancelled bulk booking tickets couple of months ago. The civet and Kasturi vessel abhishekam seva tickets are converted into poorabhishekam seva tickets. But some of the pilgrims who have booked these tickets well in advance are not turning up during the date of their seva and as a result these tickets are going waste. To avoid this TTD has introduced this new system of transfer of vacancies to the current booking for the sake of the pilgrims.
DIAL YOUR EO PROGRAMME - MORE TASTIER MENU AT ANNADANAM BEFORE BRAHMOTSAVAMS-TTD EO
He made this announcement while attending the calls of pilgrims in the monthly "Dial You EO" programme held at Annamaiah Bhavan in Tirumala on Friday. Answering to the suggestion of a pilgrim Suresh Babu from Hyderabad to look in to the issue of changing the menu being served at Annadanam complex the EO said, TTD is already on the job and the pilgrims will enjoy the new delicacies before Brahmotsavams.
Reacting to the complaint raised by the caller Manjula from Chikbalapur the EO directed the health department officials to instruct the hotliers along the foot path route to maintain hyiegene and cleanliness in their premises.
Answering callers Narendra from Vijayawada, Seshadri from Hyderabad, Murti from Konduru he said TTD is continuously exploring ways and means to provide a hassle free darshan in the temple. "We are sketching out a new hassle-free darshan plan with which we can minimise the push and pull by the scouts", EO assured.
Reacting to the callers Sudhir from Bangalore and Madhavi from Hyderabad the EO said, steps will be taken immediately to streamline the security check at Srivari Mettu foot path route.
Answering the query of Ramakrishna a caller from Visakhapatnam the EO said, the TTD management will definitely look in to arranging a separate queue line for on line and advanced reservation pilgrims at Srinivasam Complex in Tirupati.
Welcoming the suggestion of Suresh Kumar from Hyderabad the EO said, so far there is no provision for cancellation of online tickets. But we will definitely look in to the suggestion", he added.
Earlier before the commencement of the programme, the EO addressing pilgrims said, TTD has successfully implemented current booking of arjitha seva tickets through electroninc lottery dip system. He also appealed the pilgrims to co-operate with TTD while security check is underway at Alipiri toll gate. He said the Srimad Bhagatham copies penned by great poet Bammera Potha are ready for sales. As a measure to control increasing pollution in Tirumala, TTD will hence forth strictly observe traffic regulations in the Lord's abode, said EO.
VSO Sri MK Singh, CE Sri Chandrasekhar Reddy, Deputy EO Temple Sri Munirathnam Reddy, Deputy EO Reception Sri Narayana Chetty, OSD Reception Sri Damodaram, VGO Sri Venkatratnam and others were also present.
SRI TARIGONDA VENGAMAMBA NITYA ANNADANA COMPLEX
Tirumala, 07 July (P.R.O)“Annadanam Samam Danam Trilokeshu Na Vidhathe”
These are the verses from the Vedas, meaning Annadanam is supreme and incomparable to any charity. Hence giving food to the devotees is more than attaining heaven.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams(TTD) has taken up this noble task of serving the hungry providing free food in the name of "Annadanam" since several decades. With its prime motto-"Manava Sevaye Madhava Seva", the TTD is marching ahead in Nitya Annadanam scheme from the past 25 years.
TTD began the free food service to the pilgrims on 6th April 1985 with a feeding capacity of just 2000 pilgrims. But today as many as 35-45thousand devotees are enjoying free meals every day and rever it as 'Lord Venkateswara's prasadam' in the massive Annadanam complex at Tirumala which is open for 12 hours a day .
The President of India H.E.Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil inaugurated the massive new Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Annadanam Complex at Tirumala on Thursday.
Earlier, she was received by AP Governor H.E.Sri ESL Narasimhan and AP CM Sri N.Kiran Kumar Reddy and other TTD officials. The President Smt.Pratibha Patil inaugurated the plaque at the entrance of the new annadanam complex amidst the chant of vedic hymns by vedic pundits. Later she visited rothi making machine and then offered prayers to Vakulamata statue installed inside the annadanam kitchen. At this juncture TTD Specified Authority chairman Sri J.Satyanarayana explained to her about Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba who pioneered the cause of Annadanam in Tirumala to devotees. Later she greeted the donors for their largessee.
The devotional musical concert by renowned singer Smt Gopika Purnima and team, Vegesna Foundation's Srivani and Rishikesh enthralled the distinguished guests. Smt Gopika Purnima rendered the devotional penned by Saint Poet Annamacharya and Saint Poetess Vengamamba.
Later the President and entourage had a delicious feast in the new annadanam complex. The free food service to pilgrims in the new anndanam complex also commenced in the afternoon of Thursday.
In view of every increasing pilgrim influx to the holy hill shrine, the number of pilgrims consuming free meals has also considerably increased year by year. On an average, in a year, over one crore pilgrims consume free meals in the Annadanam Complex of TTD.
To facilitate the devotees TTD has taken up construction of a new massive Annadanam complex to accomodate more devotees. While the present building has the capacity to feed almost 2000 pilgrims in one sitting, the new complex constructed at a cost of Rs.33cr can accomodate 4000 pilgrims at a time.
FEATURES OF NEW ANNADANA COMPLEX:
Spread over two lakh square feet, the new Annadanam building consists of four massive halls, each with a capacity of 1000 seats. Apart from providing the south indian rice meals, TTD has also made arrangement for providing Roti and sabzi to the devotees from north.It has purchased rothi making machine which can prepare 2000 rothis in an hour. Apart from this, state – of –art of machinery has also been installed in this massive complex. The new Annadanam complex will have a capacity to facilitate free food to 75,000 to one lakh pilgrims daily .
TTD APPEALS TO DEVOTEES TO USE DIGITAL LOCKERS
TIRUMALA, MAY 4: The temple administration of TTD has appealed to devotees to make use of the free digital lockers located at Tirumala to keep safe their valuables during their visit to Tirumala.
Addressing a media briefing at Annamaiah Bhavan in Tirumala, the Joint EO of Tirumala Sri KS Srinivasa Raju said TTD has spent Rs.18lakhs and set up 126 highly secured digital lockers at GNC, ANC, SNC, Sapthagiri, VSGH and First NC cottages for the sake of pilgrims. “Apart from these lockers, 90 bank type lockers have also placed at GNC”, he said.
“Usually this will be of great use to the pilgrims who are coming to Tirumala with valuable items and jewels. These digital lockers are highly safe and secure”, he added.
He said owing to heavy influx of pilgrims with the advent of summer vacation, TTD has temporarily halted the ongoing renovation works on Second Ghat Road. “The works will resume likely in the first week of June after the peak season is over”, he maintained.
The JEO said, TTD has began issuing 25 each of Sahasra Kalasabhishekam and Tiruppavada seva tickets to the pilgrims under current booking.
Meanwhile addressing the media persons, special grade deputy executive officer of Reception Sri Lakshmi Kantham said, the digital lockers are available at the pilgrim disposal at totally free of cost. “The only thing they have to use, they should use a four-digit number secret code to lock and open their lockers or they can even use their debit cards to swipe the lockers”, he added.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM CONCLUDES WITH DWAJA AVAROHANAM
Tirumala, 07 Oct 2011(P.R.O) Dwaja Avarohanam was performed at Dwajasthambam inside Sri Vari Temple on the concluding day of Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam at Tirumala on friday night. Earlier processional diety of Lord Malayappaswamy along with His consorts were taken out in procession on gold tiruchi around four mada streets.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryapraksh Rao, Ms. Charu Sinha, DIG, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- CHAKRASNANAM
Tirumala, 07 Oct 2011(P.R.O) The Srivari Brahmotsavam came to crescendo and climaxed on the Ninth day with the Chakrasnanam ritual performed in the presence of thousands of devotees at the Swami Puskarini near the Tirumala Temple. The chakrasnanm signaled the penultimate ritual of the nine day devotional and spiritual bonanza at Srivari Temple ,Tirumala.
As part of the event the utsava idols which were paraded all the nine days are once again taken out of temple in a Pallaki utsavam in the early hours on the four mada streets. They are along with the Sri Chakrathalwar are offered Panchamrutha snapana Thirumanjanam at the Sri Varahaswamy temple.
Later the utsava idols are given bath in the Pushkarini and the opportunity to bathe with their beloved deity is exploited by thousands of devotees to share the sacred waters and be-get his blessings . After the bath the utsava idols are brought back to the temple.
A special ritual of worships and prayers are performed to the Utsava idols at Ranganayakula mantapam in evening before the preparations for the Dwajavarohanam, heralding the close of Brahmotsavam.
HE Governor of AP Sri E.S.L.Narasimhan, Hon'ble Minister Sri M.Venkataramana,Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryapraksh Rao, Ms. Charu Sinha, DIG, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- ASWA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 06 Oct 2011(P.R.O) Tirumala, 06 Oct 2011: Lord Venkateswara rides his horse chariot in the evening of eighth day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam-2010 and enthralls pilgrims who descend to the hill town as the festival reaches a crescendo and marches towards conclusion.
The Ashwa Vahanam procession denotes one of his most popular and well received avatars Kalki – a Good Samaritan who fights the evil and protects the righteous and good things in the Kaliyuga.
The Kalki avatar of Lord Venkateswara is hailed as the most significant in the celestial lore’s of Malayappa. The Horse (Ashwa) is described as the only living being to get a rare and unique opportunity to witness the first meeting of Lord Venkateswara and his consort Goddess Padmavati, their romance whichfinally culminated in love and wedding.
The Aswa Vahanam of Lord Venkateswara sends message to everyone to keep way from Kali-dosha and continuously pray and sing the keertans of lord to wardoff the impact of wrong doings.
As a knight riding the horse, Lord Venkateswara displays his inborn Kshyatriya credentials as a fighter and as a brave soldier who always fight the evil and protect the poor, weak and righteous.
HE Governor of AP Sri ESL Narasimhanan,Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri J.Sathyanarayanam IAS, Ex chairman, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryapraksh Rao, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- RATHOTSAVAM
Tirumala, 06 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the penultimate day of Srivari Brahmotsavam-2010, on the eighth day, the Malayapaswami is seated on a high pedestal throne and is taken on a procession around the four- mada streets on a wooden chariot which is over 35- feet tall.
The Rathotsavam festival is a highly emotional event known for the flow of bhakti sangeet, keertans, bhajans and full pitched rendering by the devotees who accompany the procession of the deity. The Rathotsavam of Tirumala is ignificant for its salient features. It is dragged by devotees and temple staff with the help of secure four inch thick jute ropes all along the thiru mada streets surrounding the temple shrine. The Rathotsavam has a special spiritual message embedded in the Kathopanishad which compared it to blending of the soul with the body.
The saint poet Annamacharya says that divine being that was an embodiment of all living things, was thus dragging his own chariot.
Hon'ble Minister Sri M.Venkataramana,Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri J.Sathyanarayanam IAS, Ex chairman, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryapraksh Rao, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF CHANDRAPRABHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 05 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the evening of seventh day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala the presiding deity Lord Venkateswara rides atop a Chandra Prabha Vahanam to the delight of thousands of devotees who gather around the four mada streets to witness the divine event.
Chandra or the moon stands for promoting medicinal values among living beings including plants. As per the scripts in the “Purushottama Praptiyagam” Chandra is described as Lord Vishnu who as an invisible architect evolved solutions for all ills of the society as the Bhagavat Geeta mentions “Nakshatrana Aham Shashi” (I am a spot on the moon) with the Lord Himself describing as Moon.
The Chandra Prabha Vahanam signifies the role of school of herbal and Ayurveda. The florists from Coimbattore made a special 18 feet garland and an arch made of white jasmine and ixora flowers as per the Agama shastras and enriched the divine energy of the utsava idols of Lord Venkateswara.
The event is telecast by the SVBC channel and the TTD has made elaborate arrangemenhts for the public to get a better view ofthe Vahanams on the sacred four mada streets with llpublic conveniences like toilets,baths, drinking water and audio facilities.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri K.Chiranjeevi MLA, Sri K.V.Ramanachary, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Smt. P.Rajyalakshmi, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF SURYAPRABHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 05 Oct 2011(P.R.O) The procession of Lord Venkateswara on the seventh day of Srivari Brahmotsavams atop the Surya prabha vahanam was an enthralling experience to all the devotees. The Tirumala deity rides atop a vehicle adorned by Surya, the sun god, who was the key architect of life of humans, animals and plants.
All devout offer prayers to Sun god every morning and the chanting of Gayatri Mantram triggers a divine energy among all. Surya rides the chariot driven by seven celestial horses. He spread light and health in the world and also removed away darkness which symbolized poverty, illiteracy and ignorance.
The Chariot of Surya Prabha of Lord Venkateswara is specially designed and flower arrangement is done by a special 20 member team of florists from Coimbatore. “The entire Surya Prabha design is made of jasmine flowers and laced with red and orange colored Kanakambara or Roses “ says S. Srinivasulu, Temple official in charge of Gardens Department.
It is common belief the darshan of Surya Prabha Vahanam provided long life to all devotees and also relieved of all illness. On this occasion the people from all corners of the district bring their aged and sick parents to cure them with the sight of the Surya Prabha Vahanam procession.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri J.Sathyanarayanam IAS, Ex chairman, Sri K.V.Ramanachary, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Smt. P.Rajyalakshmi, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF GAJA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 04 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the evening of the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateswara enthralled the devotees on the Gaja Vahanam. Elephant has been a vehicle of the Tirumala deity from time immemorial.
The richness of hindu mythology lies in its generosity to provide a respectable position of worship even for various species of fauna. Starting from Cow to Crow each of these creatures have a revered place in Hindu scriptures. Among those blessed creatures, the mighty elephant occupies a pride place being the vehicle of Goddess Laxmi Devi, the Consort of Lord Vishnu. To appease His consort as well to bless the devotees with prosperity lord takes a pleasure ride on Gaja Vahanam.
The procession of Lord Malayappa well decorated with jewellery of pearls, diamonds and other precious stones atop the Elephant vehicle is a celestial sight for all of his devotees.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri J.Sathyanarayanam IAS, Ex chairman, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Smt. P.Rajyalakshmi, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF SWARNA RADHAM
Tirumala, 04 Oct 2011(P.R.O) The sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam at Tirumala heralds distinct and unique celebration popularly known Swarna Rathotsavam (the festival of the Golden chariot.
Legends says being the Lord of Riches Lord Malayappa has taken a pleasure ride on the richly decorated golden chariot along with his two Consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi and his chariot followed Shunya ratham of Brahma and other chariots dragged by Elephant, Ashwa and Vrushaba (bull).
As part of established tradition, the barbers of Kalyana katta-tonsuring centre of Tirumala where thousands offer their hair to the deity to redeem their vows – offered a golden umbrella to Lord Venkateswara on the occasion of Swarna Rathotsavam.
Mythology says that the golden chariot of Lord Venkateswara is driven by four horses namely Sugriva, Shaibya, Meghapuspha and Valahaka with Daraka as his sarathi.
The darshan of Lord Venkateswara on his golden chariot is a memorable experience to all his devout. Many Hindus consider once in a life opportunity to witness the golden chariot festival as part of Brahmotsavam will get them salvation. It is comparable only to the colorful and picturesque Ratha yatra of Lord Krishna in Dwaraka .
Mythology says that the golden chariot of Lord Venkateswara is driven by four horses namely Sugriva, Shaibya, Meghapuspha and Valahaka with Daraka as his sarathi.
The darshan of Lord Venkateswara on his golden chariot is a memorable experience to all his devout. Many Hindus consider once in a life opportunity to witness the golden chariot festival as part of Brahmotsavam will get them salvation. It is comparable only to the colorful and picturesque Ratha yatra of Lord Krishna in Dwaraka .
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Smt. P.Rajyalakshmi, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF HANUMANTHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 04 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the sixth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam , the presiding deity Lotd Venkateswara gives darshan to his devout followers on the Hanuman Vahanam .
Hanuman is considered one of the top devotees of Lord Vishnu in one of his avatars as Lord Rama . He is also hailed as a exponent of all four vedas, Nava vyakarana pundit and destroyer of Lanka.
Hanuman is considered as an embodiment of Wisdom, Muscle power, success , Braveness, health, over active, fearless and common sense. One of the hillocks on the Tirumala hill range is also named as Anjanadr. He is also known as Vayu Putra of Anjana born out of power of ‘tapas’, Hanuman.
As done ardent devotee who carried Sri Rama on his shoulders, Hanumans association with Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Rama is nothing unusual. It is said that Lord Sri Rrama had taught the secrets of Atma Tatva to his most loyal disciple, Hanuman. The Sita Ramanjaneya Samvadam is the basic theme of a Telugu poetry of yester years.
Thus the darshan of Lord Venkateswara along with Hanuman is considered not only auspicious but also as an high intellectual association. “ The appearance of both Lord Rama and Hanuman is said to inspire the pundits for an extensive exploration of Vedic scriptures and promote righteous life style “ says Dr. A.V . Ramana Dikshitulu , the chief priest of TTD.
Hanuman is also described as Bhavishyat Brahma for his blessings and acts denote a special and spiritual path for everyone to abide and to lead a peaceful and prosperous livelihood.
Special light arrangements besides, public toilets, drinking water, First Aid and Ambulance are made around the holy four Mada streets to provide a total eyeful view of the procession of Vahanam . Cultural troupes comprising of dancers from all regions etc pre4cede the Vahanam procession of Lord Venkateswara.
The event is broadcast by the Sri Venkateswara Bhakti channel which has set up live coverage of the event with its state of art equipment to give a glimpse of the Brahmotsvam event to lakhs of devotees all over the world. The SVBC also offered free signal to all electronic channels of not only the Vahanam procession but also all events in the Temple shrine during the nine day BRAHMOTSAVAM.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, TTD Board members Sri Muthyam Reddy, Smt. P.Rajyalakshmi, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF GARUDA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 03 Oct 2011(P.R.O) The Garuda Vahanam on the fifth day of the Srivari Navarathri Brahmotsavam is considered the most significant of all events in the festival.
Garuda or the Eagle is the main and daily vehicle of Lord Vishnu. Besides being the daily transport , Garuda also said to sit atop the Dwajam on the day of Dwajarohanam ( inauguration of Brahmotsavam ) and herald the event and invit all the Devatas for the event on earth . As the Key watcher of happenings around Lord Vishnu , Garuda also supervises the course of the entire Srivari Brahmotsavam , say the legends.
Garuda functions as a servant, friend, life supporter, insignia, and flag of lord Venkateswara’s vehicle. Garuda is the most respected and most sought after follower of Lord Vishnu and the only one described in puranas as one who could flight at the speed of light.
Garuda Seva is prominent in 108 countries around the globe including the Asian and South Asian countries and even widely watched with great reverence even in the countries like Mynamar, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Large crowds from Tirupathi and other districts, towns of neighboring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka land up in Tirumala for the distinct Garudaseva event.
“The darshan of Lord Venkateswara on Garuda vahanam is very auspicious and fulfill all desires of the devotees “
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, Sri Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF MOHINI AVATHARAM
Tirumala, 03 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the fifth day of Srivari Salakatla Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara enthralled his devotees by appearing in the form of celestial beauty Mohini (female costumes) and lived up to his reputation as an “alankara priyudu (well dressed, be-jewelled handsome personality).
As legends put it Lords appearance as bejeweled and charming Mohini throws the demons (Asura’s) in confusion and wins the celestial battle in favor of the Devatas. The objective of the Mohini avatar is also to indicate that the entire universe is spell bound under the Mystic Mohini and that the Lord of Tirumala is the king pin and key architect of this high drama in the universe. The superb decoration of the idol baffles even young damsels wondering at richness of the jewels and also the beauty of the utsava idol of Mohini.
The devout say that by appearing as Mohini during the Srivari Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara had sent a message that the entire universe was a creation of his Maya. To overcome this maya everyone should worship him.
Among the various forms donned by Lord MahaVishnu, Mohini-the universal beauty is the adorable form of supernaturally beautiful Enchantress. Through Mohini Avatara the lord enlightens his devotees not to fall prey to worldly desires and come out of that "Maya".
At the same time Lord Venkateswara appears as a child Sri Krishna before his countless devotees on a pallaki (palanquin) made of ivory and Rose woodpresented to the Temple by the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore.
It is a pleasant surprise to see Srivaru decked up as Mohini and riding in a bright white palanquin made of silver and ivory. The superbly carved palanquin highlighted the Mohini who cast her spell on non-believers and transformed them into His ardent disciples.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatarami Reddy, Sri Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF SARVABHOOPALA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 02 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the fourth day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara in the avatar of Malayalappaswami presents himself as the king of kings to his devotees who throng Tirumala on the Sarva bhupala Vahanam .
Sarva bhupala meaning the God in charge of the earth, water and air become the pall bearers of his vehicle . Along with the Sarva Bhupalas, the Dikpala’s of East-West and South-North etc also join in the entourage of Lord Venkateswara in the procession on the holy Mada streets .
“The objective is to display that all the Dikpalas of the universe were not just under the control of Lord venkateswara but also that there was no chance for misuse of office by them under his diligent vigilance and directions “ says Dr.A.V.Ramana Dikshitulu , chief priest of Tirumala Temple .
They are listed in the legends of Tirumala as – Indra ( East ), Agni ( south-east) , Yama ( god of death on the South ), Niruti ( North –East) , Varuna on ( West), Vayu ( south-west) and Kubera ( god of wealth on North ) and Parameswara on ( North-west) . They are termed as Asta Dikpala’s who all are all in the service of Lord Venkateswara and work under his command.
The message that comes out of this event of Sarva Bhupala Vahanam - is to indicate that Lord Venkateswara controlled the entire universe , the Dikpala’ and also Sarva Bhupala were managed by him to ensure that the people benefited and prospered with timely rains and course of the activities by all the elements that encompassed the universe.
Special light arrangements besides, public toilets, drinking water, First Aid and Ambulance are made around the holy four Mada streets to provide a total eyeful view of the procession of Vahanam . Cultural troupes comprising of dancers from all regions etc pre4cede the Vahanam procession of Lord Venkateswara.
The TTD has organized special seating arrangements along the four mada streets with fully protected railings for galleries to enable thousands of people to sit and witness the celestial procession which lasted three to four hours in the mornings and evenings of Brahmotsavam every day at Tirumala .
The event is broadcast by the Sri Venkateswara Bhakti channel which has set up live coverage of the event with its state of art equipment to give a glimpse of the Brahmotsvam event to lakhs of devotees all over the world. The SVBC also offered free signal to all electronic channels of not only the Vahanam procession but also all events in the Temple shrine during the nine day BRAHMOTSAVAM.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Joint Executive Officers Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Sri Venkatrami Reddy, Sr Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF KALPA VRUKSHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 02 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the fourth day of Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateswara being the boon giver takes ride on Kalpa Vruksha to bless his devotees with their sought after and wishful desires for which they vow to serve and worship him whole-heartedly.
On the celestial tree Kalpa Vruksha vahanam, Lord Malayappa went on a pleasure ride around the four-mada streets surrounding the Sri temple giving darshan to thousands of people who converged in gallaries to witness the grand procession in the ongoing Srivari Brahmotsavams. Legend says that Kalpa Vruksha was one of the elements that erupted when the Adisesha placed his vice grip on the Mandara Mountain where the Devatas- Demons tried to steal the Amrutam (celestial liquid).
Srimad Bhagavatham says that all those who took shelter under Kalpa vruksha will not have problems of starvation and poverty. The use of Kalpa Vruksha vahanam by Lord Venkateswara also denotes the importance given to environment, greenery and promotion of forests and cleans and pollution free atmosphere.
Legends also hail Lord Venkateswara himself as a ‘Kalpa Vriksha’ as he blesses every devotee with boons sought by them. The Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam of Lord Venkateswara is a magnificent sight of greenery as it is adorned with not only Kalpa Vruksha but also with the celestial elements of Kamadhenu and Chintamani which are also known for granting all boons to their devotees indicating that Lord Venkateswara was embodiment of all the three divine elements.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Joint Executive Officer, Sr Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF MUTHYAPU PANDIRI VAHANAM
Tirumala, 01 Oct 2011(P.R.O) In the evening of Day -3 of the Salaktla Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara appears before his devotees on a vehicle decorated with prices less and resplendent white pearls which spread the message of peace ,love and co-existence in the society.
Legend says that pearls, a produce of sea, is formed when the dew and rain drops into pearl chip in the ocean. Even Sri Krishna wears pearl nose rings and necklaces and Lord Venkateswara hailed as “Alankara priya”(lover of decoration).
During the Srivari Brahmotsavam Lord Venkateswara sat proudly along with his consorts sat in a vahanam decked up milk white pearls in the shape of a pandal.
The 26th chapter of Padmapuranam refers to an umbrella made ofpearls giving shade to Lord Vishnu and several contemporary poets of the bygone days had described the hood of Adisesha giving cool shade of Pearl umbrella to the celestial deity.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Joint Executive Officer, Sr Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF SIMHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 01 Oct 2011(P.R.O) On the third day of the Srivari Brahmotsavam, Lord Venkateswara will give darshan outside his temple to lakhs devotees who come from all over the world on his vehicle of Simha (Lion).
The incarnation of Lord Vishnu as the Mrugendrudu (most ferocious and strong among the animals-Lion) is an indication of Lord Venkateswara as a powerful entity born to punish the erring anti-social elements on the universe and devoted for protection of the righteous, poor and the weaker sections in the society. Being a Simha, is the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as ‘Narasimha’ whom the puranas and legends speak in
volumes for his drive against ‘Dushta’(wrong doors) and protection of the weak, poor and the god fearing persons.
volumes for his drive against ‘Dushta’(wrong doors) and protection of the weak, poor and the god fearing persons.
In the Yoga shastra – a Lion was seen as an embodiment of power and speed. The valor of Lord Venkateswara who had made such an animal as his vehicle is thus displayed in abundance. The statues of Lions in the Ananda Nilayam in the Srivari temple complex have displayed the affection of Lord Venkateswara for Lions.
The idols of Narasimha in Yoga mudra in the temple and also the idol of Lakshmi Narasimha on the way to Tirumala exhibit the significance of Lion (Simha) in the celestial entourage of Lord Venkateswara.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Joint Executive Officer, Sr Muthyam Reddy, TTD Board Member, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pialli,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF HAMSA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 30 Sep 2011(P.R.O) The grand procession of Lord Venkateswara on the second day of Salakatla Brahmotsavam on the beautiful HamsaVahanam is colourful feast to the tens of thousands of eyes. Lord Venkateswara as Malayalappaswami blessed his devotees as Veenapani Saraswati atop Hamsa or Swan.
Swan or Hamsa also stands out for its capabilities to weed out the good from the bad. In other words the celestial bird is known for its in-born virtues to segregate the milk from water in a pot of this mixed liquid. This denotes that Lord Venkateswara as Hamsavahanaroodha(the rider of swan vehicle) will weed out the bad qualities in a human being and retain only the good virtues.
As saint –poet Annamacharya put it “Hamsa-cheti palu neeru-natlaye batuku” . In his embodiment as Veena pani atop the golden swan , Lord Venkateswara drives home the point among the devotees to give up ‘Aham’(ego)and to contribute their might in the service of mankind by helping the poor and needy.
Srivari Hamsa Vahanam denotes the significance attached towards selfless service of everyone towards mankind and that ego and personal pride would keep them away from Lord Venkateswara and his divine blessings.
TTD Chairman Sri K.Bapi Raju and TTD Executive Officer Sri L.V.Subramanyam released audio cd titled "Hodi Bheri" of Dasa Sahithya and Sri Venkateswara Prabhatha Stavamu by Thallapaka Pedda Tirumalacharya in front of Vahanam.
Sri K.S.Srinivasa Rao, Joint Executive Officer, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM- PROCESSION OF CHINNASESHA VAHANAM
Tirumala, 30 Sep 2011(P.R.O) On the sunny morning of the on-going annual Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateswara the processional deity of Lord Malayappa Swamy was taken out in a grand procession on ‘Chinna Sesha Vahanam' around the holy mada' streets encircling the holy shrine.
Thousands of devotees witnessed the divine procession which lasted for over two hours as he one km procession of the Chinna Sesha Vahanam was preceded by devotional bhajan roupes and the Vedic pundits reciting holy hymns.
According to Hindu puranas the Kundalini Shakti is said to be most powerful level of energy and called Kaivalya Gnana. This is the potent energy available to mankind by the grace of Lord of Lords Sri Venkateswara and is represented by mighty snake.
To make the human being about the important of that Serpentine Kundalini
energy which enables human being to reach the 8.4 millionth manifestations, the last in the cosmic life cycle lord takes ride on Chinna Sesha Vahanam which is also believed to be the divine serpentine Vasuki.
energy which enables human being to reach the 8.4 millionth manifestations, the last in the cosmic life cycle lord takes ride on Chinna Sesha Vahanam which is also believed to be the divine serpentine Vasuki.
The TTD has made elaborate seating arrangements (capacity of 75,000)on all the galleries of the sacred Mada Streets besides provision of public utilities like toilets, drinking water and also huge plasma Screens to give better views to all the audience.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, TTD Board Members Sri C.Muthyam Reddy, Sri Routhu Suryaprakash Rao, Smt. Rajeswari, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Rao, Joint Executive Officer, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pialli,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
CM OF AP PRESENTED SILK VASTRAM TO LORD VENKATESWARA
Tirumala, 29 Sep 2011(P.R.O) Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy, Hon’ble Chief Minister of A.P presented a pair of `silk vastrams,' to Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala on behalf of the State Government, in connection with the Sri Vari Annual Brahmotsavam in Tirumala on thursday.
The Chief Minister carried the silver plate containing the `vastrams' on his head from the Bedi Anjaneya Swamy temple to the Venkateswara temple, accompanied by temple paraphernalia and `nadaswaram' music. Later he presented the `vastrams' to the chief priest, inside the sanctum sanctorum and TTD Chairman Sri K.Bapi Raju presented Sri Vari Prasadam at Ranganayakula Mandapam.
Later the honourable CM inaugurated the 2012 New year calendars including Rs.75 twelve sheet calendar, Rs.10 and Rs.7 calendars, Rs.100 diaries, a book on Vaikhanasa Agama compiled by TTD Vaikhanasa Agama Advisor Dr.Vedantam Vishnubhattacharyulu, poster on Tarigonda Nityakalyanamastu marriage programme.
Hon'ble Ministers Sri Raghuveera Reddy, Smt. Galla Aruna Kumari, Sri Chinta Mohan, M.P, TTD Board Members Sri C.Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryaprakash Rao, Sri K.S.Srinivas Raju , JEO TTD, Sri M.K.Singh, C.V&S.O, Sri Munirathnam Reddy DyEO(Temple), Sri Chandrasekhar Pillai, Peishkar and other Govt, TTD Officials were present.
SRI VARI ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM BEGINS WITH DWAJAROHANAM
Tirumala, 29 Sep 2011(P.R.O Dwajarohanam marks the beginning of Nine day spiritual bonanza for devotees of Lord Venkateswara as it is the first traditional religious ceremony which is being observed during the annual salakatla brahmotsavams.
Dhwajarohanam has been carried out in a religious atmosphere amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras by the Archakas of the temple at the Dwajasthambham, near the Nadimi Padi Kavili inside the temple complex. The temple priests hoisted the celestial flag atop the temple pillar between 5.30pm to 6.00pm.
As mythology says Garudathe being one of the disciplined disciples of lord Venkateswara goes to Devalokam to invite Gods like Brahma, Indra, Yama, Agni, Kubera and Vayudeva and saptarishis to participate in the nine-day spectacular event Salakatla Brahmotsavams.
As part of the Brahmotsavam the lord Venkateswara in the form of processional Deity Lord Malayappa Swamy comes out of his temple every day in the morning and evening to give darshan to his devotees on various special vahanams.
As part of the Brahmotsavam the lord Venkateswara in the form of processional Deity Lord Malayappa Swamy comes out of his temple every day in the morning and evening to give darshan to his devotees on various special vahanams.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, TTD Board Members Sri C.Muthyam Reddy, Sri Routhu Suryaprakash Rao, Smt. Rajeswari, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Rao, Joint Executive Officer, Sri M.K.Singh, CV&SO, , Sri Munirathnam Reddy, DyE.O(Temple), Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Addl C.V.&S.O, Sri Chandrasekhar Pialli,Temple Peishkars and others were also present.
CM OF AP INAUGURATES KUMADHARA & PASUPADHARA DAMS AT TIRUMALA
Tirumala, 29 Sep 2011(P.R.O) Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy, Hon’ble Chief Minister of AP inaugurated Kumaradhara and Pasupudhara Dams at Tirumala built at a cost of Rs. 100 crores.
Kumaradhara and Pasupdhara Dams consists of two concrete dams across Kumaradhara and Pasupudhara streams and the site is located at 11km from Tirumala. The site is located in a reserve forest area at a elevations +830.00 to +920.00. Kumaradhara dam is 60m in height and Pasupudhara is 30m in height. The scheme is envisaged solely to meet the drinking water requirement at Tirumala.
Hon’ble Ministers Sri Raghuveera Reddy, Smt. Galla Aruna Kumari, Sri Chinta Mohan, M.P, TTD Board Members Sri C.Muthyam Reddy, Sri R.Suryaprakash Rao, Sri Chandrasekhar Reddy, Chief Engineer, Sudpt Enggs Sri Ramachandra Reddy, Sri Ramesh Reddy, Sri K.S.Prasad, Vice President and Project Director Maytas and others were present.
TTD TRUST BOARD MEETING
Tirumala, 28 Sep 2011(P.R.O) The TTD board chairman Sri Kanumuri Bapiraju said, that the board has given green signal to purchase one lakh kilos of export quality dry grapes required towards the preparation of laddu prasadam and other prasadams of Lord Venkateswara.
Addressing media persons after the board meeting held at Annamaiah Bhavan in Tirumala on Wednesday, the TTD board chief said a negotiations are underway with Railway authorities to construct a foot over bridge connecting the newly constructed pilgrims amenities complex Vishnu Nivas in Tirupati with Tirupati railway station. He said the tariff of accommodation have also been fixed at Rs.300, Rs.500, Rs.800 and Rs.1300 for the sake of the visiting pilgrims.
We have also invited honourable Lok sabha Speaker Smt Meira Kumar for Darshan of Lord and she accepted our invitation but not confirmed the date of her visit. But we are hopeful that she may visit Tirumala in near future", the chairman maintained.
The chairman said, sub-committees have also been appointed by the board to take care of various activities in TTD including Purchases committees where in all the three board members Sri R Suryaprakash Rao, Sri Muthyam Reddy and Smt Rajeshwari are members, while endowments commissioner Sri G Balaramaiah will head the Appeals committee, TTDs board chief Sri K Bapiraju and Executive Officer Sri LV Subramanyam will be in the sub-committee to take care of SV Degree College in New Delhi, all the board members will be present in BIRRD sub-committee while for SVIMS Executive board and Governing Council, Honourable Chief Minister is the Chairman while TTD chairman will be the vice-chairman and other three members of the board will also be the members of the sub-committee.
The chairman said, TTD has geared up for brahmotsavams and the honourable Chief minister of Andhra Pradesh will lay the foundation stone to ORR at GNC Toll gate in Tirumala and later inaugurate the Kumaradhara - Pasupudhara projects on September 29, on the first day of brahmotsavams. The CM will offer silk vastrams to Lord Venkateswara on the behalf of state government in the evening. He said the CM will also inaugurate the 2012 dairies and calendars along with a book on Vaikhanasa Agama.
He said there is a reserve stock of 6,31,000 laddus with TTD. "We will also release six books during procession of various vahanams during brahmotsavams. The chairman said the risk allowance of vahanam bearers of TTD has been enhanced to Rs.1000 from the existing Rs.300.
Board Members Smt Rajeshwaramma, Sri R Surya Prakash Rao, Endowments Commissioner Sri G Balaramaiah, EO Sri LV Subramanyam, JEO Sri KS Srinivasa Raju, CVSO Sri MK Singh and others were also present.
INAUGURATION OF AUTOMATED UNDER VEHICLE SCANNING AT ALIPERI
Tirupati, 22 Sep 2011(P.R.O) Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs inaugurated AUTOMATED UNDER VEHICLE SCANNING SYSTEM installed at Aliperi Toll Gate. The cost of the system is Rs 1.36 crores.
Sri L.V.Subramanyam, Executive Officer, TTDs, Sri M.K.Singh, C.V&S.O, Sri Manohar, V&SO, Sri Chandrasekhar Reddy, Sri Sudhakar Rao, Supdt Engg, Sri Nageswara Rao, Exe Engg, Sri Sesha Reddy, GM Transport and others were present.
CHIEF MINISTER OF ANDHRA PRADESH INAUGURATES VISHNU NIVAS
Tirupati, 21 Sep 2011(P.R.O) The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Sri N. Kiran Kumar Reddy has inaugurated the Rs.66cr massive pilgrim amenities complex-Vishnu Nivas near Tirupati Railway station on Wednesday.
Earlier he was accorded warm welcome by TTD board chief Sri Kanumuri Bapiraju, TTD EO Sri LV Subramanyam, Joint EO Sri KS Srinivasa Raju, CVSO Sri MK Singh, CE Sri Chandrasekhara Reddy at the entrance. Later the honourable CM also opened the baggage scanners, separate luggage counters meant for footpath route pilgrims from Alipiri and Srivarimettu, Rs.50sudarshan token counter, rooms allotment counter, TTD book stall inside the complex.
This massive complex will accommodate over 2500 pilgrims and built at a cost of Rs. 66 Crore.
Later Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh laid foundation stone to the Rs.3cr Paediatric Onchology Wing in Ruia hospital followed by the foundation stone laying ceremony at SVIMS Superspecialty hospital. In SVIMS the honourable CM laid foundation stone to Rs.3.25cr Patients attendants' block and Rs.4.5cr dialysis lab.
Honourable In-charge Minister Sri N.Raghuveera Reddy, Honourable Minister Smt G Arunakumari, Honourable MP of Tirupati Dr Chinta Mohan, Honourable Tirupati Legislator Dr K Chiranjeevi and other Honourable public representatives were also present.
TTD BOARD CHIEF THOROUGHLY INSPECTS TEMPLE AND SURROUNDINGS AT TIRUMALA
Tirumala, 14 Sep 2011(P.R.O) The TTD board chairman Sri Kanumuri Bapiraju on Wednesday inspected various places inside and surrounding the srivari temple at Tirumala and directed the officials to complete the pending works at a speedy rate before the commencement of annual brahmotsavams which are set to begin from September 29.
During his five-hour long inspection the board chief visited the laddu potu, annaprasada potu inside the temple, laddu counters, Boondi potu, swami pushkarini, Annadanam(soon to be renamed as Annaprasadam) complex, Kalyanakatta, information counters located surrounding the main temple. He also interacted with pilgrims about various amenities being provided by TTD.
Later speaking to media persons he said, after the darshan of Lord Venkateswara, pilgrims offer prayers in the holy water of Swami Pushkarini. TTD has also improved a lot the temple tank in terms of providing recycling filter water and maintaining hygene. However to give an enhanced aesthetic and devotional look to the temple tank, brasscading of the gates across the pushkarini will be done replacing the existing iron gates. "We have allotted Rs.4cr towards these works", he added. He also said the TTD board is committed to provide better services to visting pilgrims. "There will not be any increase in laddu price and we ensure the pilgrims that there will be enhancement in the quality of laddus. Five more new boondi mixing machines will be added to the fleet of laddu boondi mixing machines in the laddu potu inside the temple to prepare more qualitative quantity of laddus for pilgrims. "The laddu purchase validity time on laddu tokens has also been extended from existing two hours to three hours for the sake of the common pilgrims which will implemented with immediate effect", he maintained.
TD Joint EO Sri KS Srinivasa Raju, CVSO Sri MK Singh, ACVSO Sri Sivakumar Reddy, Temple Deputy EO Sri Muniratnam Reddy, CE Sri Chandrasekhara Reddy and other officials were also present.
AP CM WILL PRESENT SILK VASTRAMS ON SEPT 29-TTD BOARD CHIEF
Tirumala, 13 Sep 2011(P.R.O) The honourable AP Chief Minister will present silk vastrams on behalf of the state government on the first day of annual brahmotsavams on September 29, said TTD board chairman Sri Kanumuri Bapiraju.
Addressing media persons after reviewing with TTD officials on Brahmotsavams arrangements in Annamaiah Bhavan at Tirumala on Tuesday, Sri Bapiraju said the temple administration is all set ready for the annual salakatla brahmotsavams which are slated to take place from September 29 to October 7.
He said TTD has also made a trial run of Garuda Seva on Monday on the occasion of Bhadrapada Shukla Pournami Garuda Seva to have a pre-look in tackling the pilgrim influx. “We also appeal the VIPs who come to Tirumala during brahmotsavams and get the blessings of Lord Venkateswara just like any other common pilgrims. He said RTC has also agreed to run six free buses within Tirumala on the lines of the free buses run by TTD.
Later TTD EO Sri LV Subramanyam said Honourable CM of Andhra Pradesh will visit Tirumala on September 21 and September 29. “As per the tentative schedule list of CM’s visit, on September 21 he will inaugurate the Vishnu Nivas pilgrim complex at Tirupati and on September 29 the AP CM will lay foundation stone to the outer ring road connecting GNC toll gate to Kaustubham as a part of Master plan and also inaugurate Kumaradhara and Pasupudhara water projects apart from presenting vastrams to Lord on first day of brahmotsavams”, he added.
Earlier the TTD board chief and EO have released the booklets, posters and invitation of Brahmotsavam 2011 along with TTD joint EO Sri KS Srinivasa Raju and CVSO Sri MK Singh. The chief priest of Tirumala temple Dr.AV Ramana Dikshitulu, temple deputy EO Sri Muniratnam Reddy and other officials were also present.
List of important days during brahmotsavams 2011:
Dhwajarohanam on 29 th September, Garudaseva on 3 rd October, Golden Chariot on 4 th October, Rathotsavam on 6 th October and Chakrasnanam on 7 th October.
ANNUAL PAVITHROTSAVAM IN SRI PADMAVATHI AMMAVARI TEMPLE
Tiruchanur, 11 Sep 2011(P.R.O) On the second day of Annual Pavithrotsavam in Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Pavithras, the garlands made from special thread are taken in a procession and used to decorate Goddess Padmavathi inside Temple on Sunday.
Sri K.Bapi Raju, Chairman TTDs, Sri K.S.Srinivasa Raju, Joint Executive Officer, Sri Gopalakrishna, DyEO(PAT), Sri Venugopal, AEO, Temple staff and others were present.
TTD PRESENTED MELCHANT VASTRAM TO SRI KANNIPAKKAM VARASIDHI VINAYAKA SWAMY TEMPLE
TAKE UP THE BHAKTHI PROPAGATION MISSION THROUGH BHAJANS-TTD EO
Tirumala, 04 Sep 2011(P.R.O)The mission of bhakti propagation across the country should be taken up in a massive manner using Bhajans as the tools of propagation, said TTD EO Sri LV Subramanyam.
Addressing the devotees who took part in the Deva Devam Bhaje Bhajan competitions organised jointly by TTD Dasa Sahitya Project and SV Bhakti Channel in Tirumala on Sunday evening at Kalyana Vedika, the EO said, in Kaliyuga the best and easy method of propagation of Bhakti is through Bhajana Sampradayam only. "When you are performing bhajans, the vibrations should reach the hearts of people located not only in the country but across globe. Such is the power of true bhakti".
The EO also called upon the devotees to teach their children the importance of spirituality and learn them the bhajans so that this would help in building up a spiritual India. He appreciated the efforts of organisers for conducting such bhajan competitions thereby enhancing the spirit of spirituality among masses.
Meanwhile about 27 bhajan teams hailing from the state of Karnataka reached the finals which will be organised on Sunday and Monday while there will be mega finals on Tuesday for victorious nine teams in finals. On September 7, the mega final winner will be felicitated and presented the award by TTD EO.
The programme was presided over by Dasa Sahitya Project Special Officer Dr.Ananda Teerthacharya while Sri Kanaka Sabhapathi hailing from Erode of Tamilnadu was the special guest for the occasion. Renowned carnatic musician Dr.Dwaram Vijaya Lakshmi and famous hindustani artist Sri Ananta Kulkarni acted as the judges for the competition.
SRI JAGANNATHA CHARYA ARADHANOTSAVAMS OBSERVED WITH RELIGIOUS FERVOUR
The aradhana mahotsavams of famous saint poet hailing from Karnataka Sri Jagannathacharya has been observed by Dasa Sahitya project of TTD with religious fervour.
This great saint poet of 18th century penned various scriptures in praise of Lord Jagannatha among which Sriharikathamrithasaram was often considered as a great work as it is a total essence of Bhagavata, Puranetihasam.
Born in a small village of Manvi in Raichur district of Karnataka in 1728, Sri Jagannatha became one of the famous Haridasas of Karnataka region who vigorously took up the mission of Bhakti prachara through bhajan sampradaya after Saint poets Purandhara Dasa, Narayana Dasa and Kanaka Dasa.
The Aradhana mahotsavams which began on Sunday will continue upto September 7. On Sunday about 3000 women devotees sang in chorus the Harikathamritha Saram penned by Sri Jagannatha Dasa and paid rich tributes to the great saint poet.
TTD TRUST BOARD MEETING
Tirumala, 03 Sep 2011(P.R.O) Providing hassle free darshan and a comfortable stay at Tirumala for the visiting pilgrims is the top most priority of the new TTD board said the new board chief Sri K Bapiraju.
Addressing media persons in his maiden board meeting held at Annamaiah Bhavan in Tirumala on Saturday the TTD board chief Sri Bapiraju said, before commencing the board deliberations, the new board has also invited former EOs and took their suggestions also to have constructive and transparent system for the benefit of the pilgrims.
The new board chief said the pending renovation works of two blocks will be completed before 1st January 2012 while the TTD has invited international constructions like L and T and other firms to speed up the completion of renovation works of six other blocks. He also said the TTD has taken all efforts to publish 50% of the year 2012 calendars and diaries before 2011 brahmotsavams. While the remaining 50% of the stock will be made available to pilgrims before December so that the new diaries and calendars are made available to pilgrims well in advance.
The SVBC studio will be shifted back to Hyderabad so as to produce many more dharmic and spiritual programmes with techinical expertise. Very soon a 35-minute documentary on the Suprabhata Seva will also be telecasted in Sri Venkateswara Bhakti Channel enabling the pilgrims to witness and know the importance of the seva sitting in their houses. This programmes has been named as "Govindam Paramanandam", he added.
Adding further, the new board chief said, 210 security guard posts in TTD will be filled up through state recruitment board exams with a qualification limit of Inter elegibility and these jobs will be allotted to locals hailing from chittoor district only. "We have taken this decision unanimously", he added.
Along with the board chief other members, Smt Rajeshwari, Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri Surprakasa Rao, ex-officio members Sri KV Ramanachary, Sri Balramaiah, TTD EO Sri LV Subramanyam, JEO Sri KS Srinivasa Raju and other top brass of TTD were also present.
TTD NEW BOARD SWORN IN
Tirumala, 02 Sep 2011(P.R.O) Veteran congressman and a close aide of former Prime Minister Smt Indira Gandhi, Sri Kanumuri Bapiraju, today assumed charge as the 44th chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams in the auspicious muhurtam at 9.18 PM.
Sri Bapiraju took the oath and pledge at a high voltage ceremony amidst chanting of Vedic hymns and conduction of rituals inside the sanctum sanatorium of the Srivari Temple to serve Lord Venkateswara honestly and without any other considerations .
The ceremony was conducted at the Bangaru Vakili (golden door) inside the Ananda Milayam within the Srivari Temple complex.
The oath was also served to three other members of the Board – Sri Routhu Suryaprakash Rao, Sri Muthyam Reddy and Sri. Rajeswari.
After being sworn in as Chairman of TTD for a term of two years Sri Bapiraju was presented Aashirvachanam ( divine blessing ) by Vedic pundits led by chief priest of TTD .Later the officials also presented Srivari prasadam the new chairman of TTD .
Tirupati parliament member Sri. Chinta Mohan, Tirupati MLA Sri Chiranjeevi, several former Executive Officers besides family members and admirers of chairman participated in the august ceremony in the temple.
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