Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir History For Hindus, the Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is of utmost religious significance. It is one of Hinduism's most sacred sanctuaries and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The Amarnath Temple has a long and illustrious history. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is believed to have given his celestial spouse, Goddess Parvati, the secret to immortality there in the Amarnath Cave. Legend has it that Lord Shiva chose to give this secret knowledge to her in this remote cave high in the Himalayas. The cave was hidden and inaccessible for many years before being rediscovered in the 18th century by a Muslim shepherd by the name of Buta Malik. According to the mythology, Buta Malik was handed a bag of coal by a sadhu (holy man), who ordered him to wait until he reached home before open it. Buta Malik discovered the coal had turned into gold when he opened the bag. He was so overwhelmed by this miracle...
 |
| Tirupati Temple |
Tirupati Temple -History
The history of the Tirupati Temple dates back to the ancient Hindu texts, the Puranas, which state that the temple was built by Lord Vishnu himself during the Krita Yuga. However, the exact date of the temple's construction is unknown. According to legend, Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, came to earth to marry Princess Padmavati. Lord Venkateswara is believed to have stayed on earth, at the site of the Tirupati Temple, ever since.
Over the centuries, the temple has been renovated and expanded by various kings and rulers. The temple was under the control of the Vijayanagara Empire until its collapse in the 16th century. After that, it was taken over by the rulers of various kingdoms until it came under the control of the British in the 19th century. Today, the Tirupati Temple is managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, which is a trust established by the Andhra Pradesh government.
Significance of the Tirupati Temple
The Tirupati Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, attracting millions of devotees from all over the world every year. The temple is particularly significant for followers of the Vaishnavism sect of Hinduism, which worships Lord Vishnu as the supreme deity.
The temple is famous for its main deity, Lord Venkateswara, who is believed to grant the wishes of his devotees. The temple is also known for its unique offerings, including the Tirupati laddu, which is a sweet made of gram flour, sugar, and ghee. The laddu is considered to be a prasad, or a blessed offering from the deity, and is distributed to devotees after they have offered their prayers.
Architecture of the Tirupati Temple
The Tirupati Temple is a marvel of ancient Indian architecture, with its towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and beautiful sculptures. The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture, which is characterized by its pyramid-shaped gopurams, pillared halls, and elaborate carvings.
The temple complex is spread over an area of 26.8 acres and consists of several buildings, including the main temple, the Kalyana Mandapam, the Ranganayakula Mandapam, and the Vendi Vakili. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is located on the seventh peak of the Tirumala Hills. The temple is reached by climbing a flight of steps known as the Tirumala Steps, which are said to represent the journey of life.
In conclusion, the Tirupati Temple is a truly remarkable place that holds great significance for Hindus around the world. Its rich history, unique offerings, and stunning architecture make it one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Venkateswara or simply interested in learning more about Hinduism and Indian culture, a visit to the Tirupati Temple is an experience that you will never forget.
Tirupati Temple Special Events
Brahmotsavam
The Brahmotsavam is one of the most important events celebrated at the Tirupati Temple. It is a nine-day festival that takes place in the month of September or October every year. The festival is celebrated in honor of Lord Venkateswara and involves a procession of the deity on various vahanas or chariots. The Brahmotsavam is celebrated with great pomp and splendour, and it attracts millions of devotees from around the world.
Vaikunta Ekadasi
Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated in the month of December or January and is considered to be one of the most auspicious days for Hindus. On this day, it is believed that the gates of heaven or Vaikunta are open to the devotees, and they can attain salvation by offering prayers to Lord Venkateswara. The temple is open for 24 hours on Vaikunta Ekadasi, and a large number of devotees visit the temple to offer their prayers.
Rathasapthami
Rathasapthami is celebrated in the month of February and is dedicated to Lord Surya or the Sun God. The festival marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the harvesting season. On this day, the deity is taken on a procession on a seven-horse chariot, and the festival is celebrated with enthusiasm.
Ugadi
Ugadi is celebrated as the New Year's Day in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and falls in the month of March or April. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and marks the beginning of a new year according to the Hindu calendar. On this day, the temple is decorated with flowers, and the deity is offered special prayers and rituals.
Pavitrotsavam
Pavitrotsavam is a three-day festival that is celebrated in the month of August or September. The festival is celebrated to purify the temple and its surroundings, and the priests perform special rituals to offer their prayers to Lord Venkateswara. The festival is celebrated with great devotion, and devotees offer special prayers and offerings to the deity.
Things to know before visiting Tirupati Temple
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati has specific timings for darshan (visit to the temple and the deity). Here's the general visit process and timings:
Reporting at the Entrance Gate: Devotees are required to report at the entrance gate designated for their category of darshan. There are different categories of darshan available, such as Sarvadarshan (free darshan), Special Darshan, Seva Darshan, and VIP Darshan.
Security Check: Devotees need to go through a security check, including metal detectors and bag scanning.
Waiting Area: After security check, devotees are allowed to wait in a designated area until their turn comes for darshan.
Darshan: Devotees are then allowed to enter the temple and have a darshan of Lord Venkateswara.
The temple's timings for darshan are as follows:
Sarvadarshan (Free Darshan): 24 hours a day, except during special events and festivals.
Special Darshan: Available at specific timings throughout the day, and devotees need to purchase tickets in advance.
Seva Darshan: Available at specific timings, and devotees need to book online in advance.
VIP Darshan: Available at specific timings, and devotees need to book online in advance.
Note that the temple timings and darshan timings are subject to change during special events and festivals. It is always recommended to check the temple's official website or consult with a local tour guide for the latest information on timings and darshan procedures.
How to reach Tirupati temple
There are several ways to reach Tirupati:
By Air: The nearest airport to Tirupati is the Tirupati Airport, which is located about 14 km from the city center. Several airlines operate regular flights from major cities in India to Tirupati.
By Train: Tirupati has its own railway station, which is well-connected to several major cities in India. You can take a direct train to Tirupati from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
By Bus: Tirupati has a well-connected bus network, and several state-run and private buses operate from major cities in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states to Tirupati.
By Car: You can also drive to Tirupati from nearby cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. The roads are well-maintained, and you can either hire a car or drive your own.
If you need to contact the Tirupati Temple administration or plan a visit to the temple, here are the contact details:
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD)
Tirupati 517 504,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
Phone: +91-877-2277777, +91-877-2233333
Email: eo@tirumala.org
Comments
Post a Comment