The ancient and sacred
temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh
peak, Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of
the Tirupati Hill, and lies on the southern banks of
Sri Swami Pushkarini.
It
is by the Lord’s presidency over Venkatachala, that
He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord
of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of
the Seven Hills.
The
temple of Sri Venkateswara has acquired unique
sanctity in Indian religious lore. The Sastras,
Puranas, Sthala Mahatyams and Alwar hymns
unequivocally declare that, in the Kali Yuga, one
can attain mukti, only by worshipping Venkata
Nayaka or Sri Venkateswara.
The benefits acquired by a
piligrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the
Rig Veda and Asthadasa Puranas. In these epics,
Sri Venkateswara is described as the great bestower
of boons. There are several legends
associated with the
manifestation of the Lord at Tirumala.
The
temple has its origins in Vaishnavism, an ancient
sect which advocates the principles of equality and
love, and prohibits animal sacrifice.
The
sanctum sanctorum which houses the awe-inspiring
idol of the Lord of the Seven Hills is situated in
the main temple complex of Tirumala.
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