Key Figures and Their Roles in the Mythological Context of Venkatachala:
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1. **Lord Vishnu:** The primary deity associated with Venkatachala. He resides on this sacred mountain, which is considered his divine abode. Vishnu's presence on Venkatachala is central to its sanctity and significance in Hindu mythology. The mountain is believed to be a site where Vishnu grants blessings and fulfills the wishes of his devotees.
2. **Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth):** Vishnu's consort, Lakshmi, is also associated with Venkatachala. Her presence on the mountain signifies prosperity and divine grace. The mountain is seen as a source of both material and spiritual wealth due to Lakshmi's influence.
3. **Anjanadevi:** The wife of the vanara (monkey) king Kesari. She performed intense penance at Venkatachala to conceive a child. Her devotion and the subsequent birth of her son, Hanuman, are significant in the Treta Yuga. The mountain is named Anjanadri in her honor.
4. **Hanuman (also known as Anjaneya):** The son of Anjanadevi and Kesari, born as a result of the penance performed at Venkatachala. Hanuman is a revered figure in Hindu mythology, known for his devotion to Lord Rama and his role in the Ramayana. His birth at Venkatachala adds to the mountain's significance as a site of divine miracles.
5. **Narayan (Brahmin Sage):** A Brahmin who performed severe penance on the mountain, which led to it being named Narayanadri. His devotion and penance are part of the mountain's historical and spiritual narrative.
6. **Adishesha (The Serpent King):** Adishesha is a serpent deity who plays a role in the mythological account of a contest with Vayu Deva. He represents the stability and support of the universe. The contest with Vayu Deva involves a demonstration of strength and divine power, and his eventual submission leads to the establishment of Venkatachala's sacred status.
7. **Vayu Deva (The Wind God):** Vayu Deva participated in the contest with Adishesha. His role in carrying the mountain and demonstrating his power highlights the mountain's divine attributes. His victory in the contest emphasizes the significance of Venkatachala as a divine site.
8. **Prahlada:** A devout follower of Vishnu, whose protection by the Narasimha (lion) incarnation of Vishnu is associated with Venkatachala. Prahlada's story emphasizes the mountain's role in safeguarding and upholding dharma (righteousness).
These figures collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of Venkatachala's mythological and spiritual significance, each adding layers of divine attributes and historical context to the sacred mountain.
Tirupati is considered one of the most renowned pilgrimage sites in India. This sacred area is located at 13°41′ North Latitude and 79°24′ East Longitude, on the southern edge of Chittoor district in present-day Andhra Pradesh. The city derives its name from Lord Sri Venkateswara Swami, who is believed to have incarnated on the hilltop near this city. The hill range of Tirumala is famously known as 'Sheshachalam'. This hilly region is called Sheshachalam in Kadapa district, while in the northern part of Kurnool district, it is known as 'Nallamala' (Black Hills). The three hill ranges spanning Chittoor, Kadapa, and Kurnool districts form the northern half of the Eastern Ghats. These hilly valleys are spread out in several concentric rings and mountain ranges across the three districts. They give the impression of a great serpent coiled up and resting peacefully. According to mythology, these are considered to be Adisesha, the divine serpent who supports the entire universe on his thousand hoods. In the mythological tradition, it is believed that Adisesha serves Lord Sri Venkateswara Swami on his seven hoods. He is also said to support Ahobil Narasimha on his coiled body and Lord Mallikarjuna on his tail, who resides on the southern bank of the holy Krishna river on the Shrisailam hill. Both Ahobil and Shrisailam are located in the Kurnool district, within the Nallamala hill ranges, approximately 120 and 180 miles from Tirupati. The revered shrine of Sri Kalahasteeswara is located just 25 miles from Tirupati. The Sri Kalahasti region is situated at the mouth of the snake, according to traditional belief.
The base of the Tirupati hills is 2820 feet above sea level, with an area of about 100 square miles. This hilly area is composed of several ranges, considered to be the seven hoods of the serpent king, Adisesha. The first four are relatively flat and continuous, while the fifth and sixth are characterized by deep and dense ravines, referred to as 'Avsari' or 'Avachari Kona'. The term "Kona" means "valley". The seven hills are named Sheshachalam, Vedachalam, Garudachalam, Anjanachalam, Vrishabhachalam, Narayanachalam, and Venkatachalam. Lord Sri Venkateswara's temple is situated on the seventh hill, on the southern bank of the sacred Pushkarini pond. This temple is about two miles from the Narayanagiri hill, which is approximately 3600 feet above sea level.
Due to being situated on the magnificent Venkatachalam hill, the Lord is also known as 'Venkateswara'. He is considered the presiding deity of the sacred area of Venkatachalam. Although he has numerous names, none is as widely known as Sri Venkateswara.
Tirupati, also known as Sripathipura, meaning "City of the Lord of Lakshmi," is named after Lord Venkateswara. However, this name refers to the town located at the base of the hills, while the village surrounding the temple at the hilltop is known as Tirumala (Sacred Hill). Tirumala is also called 'Upper Tirupati' (Eguva Tirupati), while the town below is known as 'Lower Tirupati' (Diguva Tirupati).
The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located at Upper Tirupati or Tirumala, while the temples of Sri Govindaraja Swami and Sri Kodandarama Swami are located in Lower Tirupati. The temple of Sri Kapileshwara Swami is situated at the base of the hills. Nearby, in Tiruchanur, is the temple of Sri Padmavati Devi, the consort of Sri Venkateswara Swami, also known as Sri Mahalaxmi or Sri Alamelumanga (Alamelu Manga). Near this temple are the temples of Sri Krishna and Sri Balarama, as well as the temple of Sri Sundararaja Swami.
The temple of Sri Parashareswara Swami is located in the village of Yogimallaram, near Tiruchanur. Yogimallaram was once part of Tiruchanur. The name 'Tiruchanur' evolved from 'Tiruchyoginur', meaning 'Village of the Yogi'. The word 'Yogi' refers to Parashara Yogi, after whom the village is named. Here, Sri Parashareswara (named after Parashara Yogi who established the temple) is the presiding deity. Over time, 'Tiruchyoginur' became 'Tiruchukanur', and names like Shukapur, Shukapuri, and Shukagram are also associated with the sage Shuka Yogi. It is believed that Sri Shuka Yogi worshipped Sri Krishna at this location.
Alvars and Acharyas have referred to the Tirupati hills by various names, including Venkatachalam, Vedadri, and Vengadam (Venkata). Lord Venkateswara resides here in the divine Ananda Nilaya Vimana. This area holds a special religious and mythological significance. Tirumala is regarded as a prominent pilgrimage site in South India. Devotees consider the hill to be a 'Leela Parvat' (Divine Play Mountain) of Lord Sri Venkateswara, and it is also regarded as the abode of Lord Vishnu, known as Vaikuntha. Vaikuntha is traditionally believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Vishnu, where he resides with Sri Mahalaxmi. Garuda, the divine eagle, is said to have brought Vaikuntha to earth upon the Lord's command. It is believed that Sri Shveta Varaha Swami, another avatar of Vishnu, granted this permission.
**Chapter 2: The Tale of the Shvetavaraha Kalpa**
(Rescue of the Earth by Sri Varaha Swami from the Netherworld and the Descent of Kreedadri by Garuda)
(This tale is described in Vaha Purana, Part-1, Chapter 3)
In the period between two thousand Chatur Yugas (equivalent to one day and night of Brahma), the sun emitted fierce rays, causing a massive drought that lasted for many eons. During this time, the forests and mountain ranges were consumed by raging fires. The sages and ascetics, who had attained self-realization through their penance, were distressed by the suffering of Mother Earth. They approached Brahma's abode, praying for the protection of Janaloka (one of the seven realms), as Mother Earth had sunk into the Netherworld (Patal Lok).
This catastrophic event occurred during a pralaya (dissolution) period, which for Brahma was equivalent to one night. During this time, Vishnu, the creator, preserver, and destroyer of the universe, was in deep meditation, resting on a banyan leaf. While contemplating the restoration of the earth, Vishnu assumed the form of a mighty white boar, known as Shvetavaraha. In this form, he descended into the Netherworld to rescue the earth.
In his Shvetavaraha form, Vishnu engaged in a fierce battle with Hiranyaksha, who was then the ruler of the Netherworld and the brother of Hiranyakashipu. Vishnu, with his sharp tusks, defeated Hiranyaksha, whose colossal body lay slain. The blood from the demon stained the seven seas red. Shvetavaraha then lifted Mother Earth with his tusks and placed her on the hoods of Adisesha, the divine serpent.
Standing tall, Shvetavaraha appeared like a towering mountain in Janaloka. The devas, sages, and other celestial beings, satisfied with Vishnu's feat, chanted Vedic hymns in praise of Shvetavaraha, expressing their gratitude for the restoration of the earth.
Shvetavaraha established the earth and demarcated the boundaries of the seven oceans. Not only did he restore the earth, but he also re-established the seven realms. Vishnu then summoned Brahma and instructed him to continue with the creation of the universe as before. Vishnu desired to remain on earth for a long time to protect it and its inhabitants. He commanded Garuda to bring Kreedadri along with the entire celestial assembly from Vaikuntha to earth. Following this command, Garuda went to Vaikuntha. Led by Vishvaksena, the guardian of Vaikuntha and the commander-in-chief of Vishnu, all the celestial beings descended to earth. Shvetavaraha also chose a suitable holy area for his abode, which spanned sixty yojanas (600 miles). This area was located south of the Gomati River, west of the Eastern Sea, and on the northern bank of the Rukma River. It became a suitable dwelling place for pious beings.
Garuda established the Kreedadri hills, adorned with natural splendor and towering mountain peaks, in this sacred area. These mountain peaks were illuminated with a golden glow and studded with precious gems. They appeared as if the radiant light of the Pancha Upanishads was shining. The celestial beings settled in this region, and the brilliance of the mountain peaks became even more prominent. This region became known as Narayanagiri and gained fame. Nagavanadri was three yojanas (45 miles) wide and thirty yojanas (450 miles) long, resembling the shape of Adisesha. The mountains were shaped like the conch of Lord Vishnu. This region became a suitable and sacred abode for all living beings, dedicated to all of humanity, and known for granting liberation. It provided moksha (salvation) even to accidental travelers.
Shvetavaraha ordered that the holy region be established at Narayanagiri under his auspices. After doing so, he resided in a sacred temple in this area. The temple's vimana (temple tower) was adorned with numerous kalashas (decorative domes) and precious gems, radiating divine light. The main hall of the temple, decorated with priceless jewels, had an indescribable and unparalleled beauty. Adjacent to this, in the eastern part of the temple, lay the sacred Swami Pushkarini pond. To its south, Lord Vishnu, the supreme deity with lotus eyes, resided, holding the conch, discus, and mace. Beside him, Goddess Lakshmi also took her place, making the divine vimana her abode.
Brahma, along with the celestial beings, sages, and other devotees, prayed to Lord Shvetavaraha, saying, "O Lord, your form with fierce tusks and terrifying arms, along with your brilliant weapons and flowing hair, appears very fearsome. Please, for the satisfaction of the gods and devotees, adopt a more pleasant form. Remain on this mountain in this form. You have protected Mother Earth for the abode of humans and the pure-hearted. Please stay here peacefully and protect humanity. Fulfill the desires of your devotees and grant them their wishes."
**Chapter 3: The Dwelling of Varaha on Venkata Hill and the Importance of the Mountain**
When Sri Varaha Swami protected the earth and Garuda brought Venkata Hill from Vaikuntha to earth, Varaha Swami, along with Lakshmi, began residing on this hill in an unseen form. The peaks of this mountain, flowing with streams and adorned with ascetic sages, became a place of great spiritual significance. Brahma himself declared that Lord Shvetavaraha would remain here until the end of the Shvetavaraha Kalpa, continuously protecting, establishing, and recreating the earth. This kalpa came to be known as the Shvetavaraha Kalpa.
**Significance of Venkata Hill**
Whenever sin and unrighteousness grow, threatening righteousness and spreading evil, Lord Varaha takes on an appropriate form to annihilate the sins and sinners, thus restoring Dharma and protecting sanctity. He also promotes the knowledge of the Vedas. Residing on Venkata Hill, Lord Varaha manifests himself to all beings. He, along with Goddess Lakshmi, celestial beings, and other devotees, frequently traverses the peaks of the mountain. They consider this area more blissful than the heavens. For them, this region is exceptionally sacred, more beloved than even Vaikuntha, the heavenly realm, or the solar world.
**Chapter 4: The Sacredness and Miraculous Powers of Venkata Hill**
**Verse 4-5:**
Lord Varaha, with Goddess Lakshmi, roams the peaks, caves, and waterfalls of Venkata Hill, always illuminating the area with their divine presence. As declared by Brahma, Lord Varaha will reside on this sacred mountain for an entire kalpa. Occasionally, he blesses the fortunate souls with his darshan (divine vision) on this holy hill. In every kalpa, he continues to lift the earth, taking the form of Shvetavaraha to protect and uphold it.
**Verse 6-7:**
Known as the Shvetavaraha Kalpa, this era is revered by sages and devotees alike. Lord Varaha, accompanied by liberated souls and celestial beings, enjoys his time on this mountain, assuming various forms as desired.
**Verse 8:**
This mountain, called Venkata, is more cherished by Lord Vishnu than Vaikuntha, heaven, or any other divine abode. It is a place of extraordinary spiritual significance.
**Verse 13:**
The mountain is eternally dear to the Lord, who finds pleasure in its sacred groves.
**Verse 15, Chapter 36 (Varaha Purana, Part 1, Chapter 4, Verses 4-15):**
Venkata Hill, originally a part of Vishnu's divine realm, gained even more splendor when Lord Varaha chose it as his abode. The mountain became a place of countless and priceless spiritual powers, making it a site where devotees could easily attain spiritual and material successes. Here, one can achieve mantra siddhi (perfection in sacred chants), jnana siddhi (spiritual wisdom), and karma siddhi (success in actions), among other blessings. The mountain hosts all holy tirthas (sacred places), and sincere worship here fulfills all of a devotee's desires.
For those seeking knowledge, wisdom becomes complete. Those desiring wealth or other material blessings achieve their wishes. Those seeking progeny, sovereignty, or good health find fulfillment and happiness. Venkata Hill is a sacred site where devotees' desires for wealth, grain, cattle, and other blessings are realized.
**Verse 15:**
Mantra siddhi, tapas siddhi (perfection through austerities), yajna siddhi (success in rituals), and other forms of spiritual achievements are easily obtained here, without any hindrances or obstacles.
**Verses 16-17:**
On this sacred mountain, even a little tapasya (austerity) can lead to the fulfillment of one's desires. This mountain constantly houses all the holy tirthas (sacred places), making it a site of immense spiritual power. Those who serve the mountain with devotion and faith, seeking knowledge, gain profound wisdom. Those seeking wealth acquire abundant riches.
**Verse 18:**
Parents praying for children are blessed with offspring. Kings aspiring for sovereignty obtain their kingdoms. Those suffering from physical ailments are restored to perfect health and strength, and find abundance in grain and other resources.
**Verse 19:**
Whatever desires a mortal seeks, they are always fulfilled on this sacred mountain.
**Verse 20 (Varaha Purana, Part 1, Chapter 4, Verses 15-20):**
Venkata Hill, also known as Kanakachala, contains eight types of mines. These mines reveal themselves only to those with pure souls, a phenomenon that has persisted through the ages. This hill, also called Srinivasa Giri, is the abode of Lord Srinivasa. At times, it appears as a mountain of gold, while at other times, it shines with the light of wisdom. Sometimes, it seems like a treasure trove of precious stones, while at other times, it appears as a divine abode adorned for Lord Srinivasa. This transformation occurs as time progresses.
**Verses 30 & 34-35:**
Kanakachala, or Venkata Hill, can appear as a golden peak, a mountain of wisdom, or a treasure trove of jewels, depending on the era and the observer's spiritual purity. In Kali Yuga, it may seem like an ordinary stone mountain, but it holds immense spiritual significance.
**Verse 36 (Varaha Purana, Part 1, Chapter 26, Verse 33):**
This mountain, though seemingly ordinary in the Kali Yuga, is actually divine and radiant. It becomes a natural-looking hill only in this age.
**Summary:**
Ascending Venkata Hill with complete devotion enhances one's spiritual strength. The blind gain vision, the mute acquire speech, the deaf are able to hear, and barren women conceive. Those who are poor become prosperous. The mountain's spiritual energy transforms and elevates the lives of all who seek its blessings with devotion.
**Verses 31-33:**
Devotion to this sacred mountain, filled with faith and surrender, illuminates one's life with blessings and fulfillment. The transformative power of this mountain is evident, offering purity and clarity to the mind and soul.
- On Venkata Hill, devotion brings miraculous changes:
- The lame can walk.
- The blind gain sight with eyes like lotus petals.
- The mute become eloquent speakers.
- The deaf can hear.
- Childless women are blessed with children.
- The poor become wealthy.
This transformation is possible through unwavering devotion and faith. Understanding the true essence of Venkata Hill is beyond ordinary comprehension; it requires deep spiritual insight.
**Varaha Purana, Part 1, Chapter 8, Verses 31-33**
**Chapter 4: The Different Names of Venkata Hill in Various Ages**
In different ages and for various reasons, Venkata Hill, also known as Kriyaadri, has been called by different names by sages:
- **Krita Yuga:** Vrishabhachala
- **Treta Yuga:** Anjanadri
- **Dvapara Yuga:** Sheshachala
- **Kali Yuga:** Venkatadri
Other significant names include:
- **Chintamani:** Because it fulfills desires.
- **Gyanadri:** Endowed with the power to grant knowledge.
- **Tirthadri:** Containing numerous sacred sites.
- **Pushkaradri:** Adorned with beautiful, red lotus-filled ponds.
- **Vrishadri or Dharmadri:** Associated with Dharma Devata performing penance.
**Vrishabhachala's Mythology**
In Krita Yuga, the demon Vrishabhav was a tyrant who took control of the mountain and troubled the sages residing there. He performed intense penance at the sacred Tumburu Tirtha for 5,000 years, cutting off his head daily and offering it to Lord Narasimha. Every time, a new head would grow in its place. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Narayana appeared and granted him a wish. Vrishabhav asked for a battle with Narayana, desiring to die at the hands of the Sudarshana Chakra, as it would grant him moksha (liberation).
A fierce battle ensued, and ultimately, Lord Narayana used the Sudarshana Chakra, granting Vrishabhav's wish. As a result, Vrishabhav achieved the supreme state of moksha. The mountain was then named Vrishabhachala in his honor, as per his request, and this name persisted throughout Krita Yuga.
**Kanakachala:** Named for its golden, pot-like shape, resembling a golden vessel (Kanaka Ghata).
**Narayanadri:** Named after a Brahmin named Narayana who performed severe penance on this mountain.
**Vaikunthadri:** Known as Vaikunthadri due to its association with Lord Vishnu, as it was believed to have been brought from Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu.
**Singhachala:** Named after the lion (Singha) incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Narasimha, who protected Prahlada from his demon father Hiranyakashipu. The region is believed to be the site of this event.
**Anjanadri:** Named after Anjanadevi, the wife of Kesari, the king of forest dwellers. Following the advice of Sage Matanga, Anjanadevi performed penance on Venkata Hill to have a child. After twelve years of penance, Vayu Deva, the wind god, blessed her with a special fruit that led to the birth of a son, Anjaneya, later known as Hanuman. Hanuman became a great devotee and helper of the gods. The mountain was named Anjanachala in the Treta Yuga to honor Anjanadevi's penance.
**Varaha Purana, Part 1, Chapter 1, Verses 57-58:**
- **Krita Yuga:** Anjanadri
- **Treta Yuga:** Narayanadri
- **Dvapara Yuga:** Sheshachala
- **Kali Yuga:** Venkatachala
**Summary of Venkata Hill's Significance:**
Venkata Hill has been known by different names across various ages, each reflecting significant events or characteristics associated with the hill. It is revered for its spiritual power and is believed to grant various boons, including wisdom, wealth, and progeny, to those who worship there with devotion. The hill is also significant for associating with various divine figures and events in Hindu mythology.
**Chaupaya Purana, Chapter of the Varaha Purana:**
**Kanakachala:** Named for its shape resembling a golden vessel (Kanaka Ghata), this name reflects its appearance.
**Nilgiri:** Named after the prominent vanara (monkey) named Neela, who resided here.
**Venkatachala or Venkadri:** The term 'Venkata' is derived from 'Amrita' (nectar) and 'Chala,' meaning a place associated with wealth and splendor. This mountain is believed to bestow divine riches and heavenly blessings, hence the name Venkatachala.
**Venkatachala's Significance:**
1. **Varaha Purana (Part 1, Chapter 4, Verses 31-32):** The term Venkatachala is associated with the idea that it destroys sins and is known for its divine attributes.
2. **Brahmanda Purana:** States that the name Venkatachala was popularized by sages who heard about it from Bhughu Maharshi. This narrative is also found in the Venkatachala Mahatyam.
3. **Bhavishya Purana:** According to Brahma, the name Venkatachala was promoted in the Kali Yuga.
**Names Derived from Events:**
1. **Anjanadri:** Named after Anjanadevi, the wife of Kesari, who performed severe penance on this hill to conceive a child. Her son, Hanuman, was born here, leading to the name Anjanadri in the Treta Yuga.
2. **Singhachala:** Associated with the Narasimha (lion) incarnation of Vishnu, which protected Prahlada from his father Hiranyakashipu. The event is believed to have occurred in this region.
3. **Narayanadri:** Named after the Brahmin Narayana who performed penance here.
4. **Venkatachala:** Known for its associations with Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi. The name signifies the divine residence and the wealth it brings.
**Historical Accounts:**
1. **Bhavishya Purana (Chapter 1, Verses 40-68):** This text recounts the story of Anjanadevi's penance and the birth of Hanuman. It explains how various names of the mountain evolved based on its divine associations and historical events.
2. **Varaha Purana (Part 1, Chapter 1, Verses 31-36):** Describes how Venkatachala became renowned for its divine powers and blessings, including its association with different yugas and its role in spiritual attainment.
3. **The Epic Battle:** An account of a contest between Vayu Deva and Adishesha, the serpent deity, who were asked to demonstrate their strength. Vayu Deva carried the mountain to the north, and Adishesha was eventually defeated. This led to the mountain being established as Venkatachala, a site of great divine significance.
**Significance of Venkatachala:**
- **Purity and Divine Presence:** Venkatachala is described as a place of great purity and divine power. It is believed that the mountain can fulfill the desires and spiritual needs of devotees. Its importance in Hindu mythology is highlighted by its ability to bestow various boons and its esteemed place in the spiritual and physical realms.
- **Theological Importance:** Venkatachala is revered for its association with Vishnu and its role in divine narratives. The mountain's ability to destroy sins and provide spiritual benefits makes it a significant pilgrimage site.
The texts collectively emphasize the mountain’s divine nature, its historical and mythological significance, and its role in the spiritual lives of devotees.
Credits:
**Tirupati Shri Venkateshvara**
(Tirupati Balaji)
**Hindi Translation:**
Prof. Yaddanapudi Venkataramana Rao
Prof. Gopal Sharma
**Original English:**
Shri Sadhu Subrahmanya Shastri
