The Tirupati Balaji Temple is a divine manifestation of ancient Indian architecture. Located in the Tirumala hills of Andhra Pradesh, this sacred site is visited by millions of people every year, not only for its religious significance but also for its magnificent architecture. It is a perfect place where art and divinity come together. Spanning over 16.2 acres, each element of the temple showcases various architectural styles, with the primary influence being Dravidian architecture. The temple has been constructed over centuries, reflecting the influence of different kings and emperors. The historical essence of these eras is evident in its structure, intricate stone carvings, majestic towers, courtyards, pillared halls, and the overall artistic vision.
Contribution of Dynasties
The origin of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple can be traced back to ancient times, even before the 9th century AD. According to various legends, Lord Venkateshwara is a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, who descended to the Tirumala hills to bless devotees and save humanity during the age of Kaliyuga. However, the architectural brilliance seen today is largely the contribution of various South Indian dynasties over the centuries.
Several dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Pandyas, made significant contributions to the Tirumala temple. Yet, it was during the Vijayanagara Empire, especially under the reign of King Krishnadevaraya, the temple’s architecture was highly enhanced. During this era, many gopurams (gateway towers) and mandapams (pillared halls) were constructed, heightening the temple’s grandeur.
Dravidian Architecture
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple follows traditional Dravidian temple architecture, which originated in South India. The most common feature of Dravidian temple architecture is its pyramid-shaped towers, elaborate and intricately carved entrances, and pillared halls. The hallmark of Dravidian architecture is the use of stone, particularly granite.
The Tirumala temple architecture also follows the Agama tradition. Agama tradition is a set of ancient scriptures followed by Hindus which has detailed instructions on everything from design to architecture for building sacred temples.
Intricate Stone carvings and mythological depictions
One of the defining, magnificent, and unique features of Dravidian temple architecture is its intricate stone carvings, and the Tirupati Tirumala Temple is no exception. The temple’s striking architecture captivates foreigners and continues to amaze Indian devotees, no matter how many times they visit. The temple’s walls, pillars, and gopurams are adorned with beautiful and exquisite carvings depicting mythological scenes from Hindu scriptures. The most prominent stories feature Lord Vishnu and his various avatars.
These carvings not only serve artistic and spiritual purposes but also educate visitors about the rich beauty of Hindu mythology. The stonework exhibits remarkable detail and quality, with each god, goddess, and celestial being sculpted in a way that makes them appear almost lifelike.
The Divine Gopurams (Towers)
The most striking feature of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is its towering gopurams. These massive towers are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including mythological creatures and deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha. They also depict scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
1. Raja Gopuram (Main Gopuram)
At the entrance of the temple complex, there is a magnificent Rajagopuram, the main entrance tower, which symbolizes the gateway between the earthly realm and the divine abode.
2. Ananda Nilaya Vimana (Golden Dome)
The Ananda Nilaya Vimana stands tall directly above the Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum), the sacred place where the deity resides. Known as the “Golden Abode of the Lord of the Universe,” the Ananda Nilaya is entirely gilded in gold, symbolizing purity and glory. It is also referred to as the Bangaru Gopura Vimana. This sacred chamber is where Lord Sri Venkateshwara is worshiped through daily poojas and archanas.
According to ancient mythology, it is believed that this golden vimana was brought from Vaikuntam, the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu, by his divine vehicle, Garuthmantha. Following the Lord’s wishes, it was installed in this holy sanctuary. The Ananda Nilaya Vimana is adorned with 64 intricate images of deities from Hindu mythology.
3. Vendi Vakili (Three-Story Gopuram)
The Vendi Vakili, also known as the Silver Entrance, leads directly into the Vimana Pradakshinam. Rising above the entrance is a three-story gopuram adorned with seven kalasams, which were added during architectural expansions in the 12th and 13th centuries.
4. Outer Gopuram
The Outer Gopuram stands prominently in the middle of the Tirumala Valley. This grand entrance, along with the dwaram (main door) was constructed by the Vijayanagara emperor, Srikrishna Devaraya.
The Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha)
The Garbhagriha, or Sanctum Sanctorum, lies at the heart of the temple. Unlike the other complex structures, it is built in a simpler manner to create an atmosphere of peace and solemnity. The original idol of Lord Venkateshwara is believed to be self-manifested and not man-made. This self-manifested idol is enshrined in the inner sanctum, which can only be entered by priests. The Garbhagriha is aligned east to west, with the idol facing east, symbolizing the importance of the sun in Hindu rituals.
Mandapams (Halls)
1. Ranganayaka Mandapam
Ranganayaka Mandapam is located directly opposite the glass porch. It is a grand structure with pillars containing floral designs and mythological scenes carved into them. Between 1320 and 1369 A.D., the Muslim invasion took place. During this time, the idols of Lord Ranganatha from Srirangapatnam were relocated to Tirumala to ensure the safety of the idols. In this particular mandapam, daily rituals and prayers were conducted regularly until the statues were returned to Srirangam. This mandapam, as the name suggests, is named after Lord Ranganatha. This place was originally constructed by the king of Tirupati, Ranganatha Yadava Rayalu. It also served as the site for the Kalyanotsavam (divine marriage rituals) of Lord Venkateshwara for a period of time.
2. Krishandevarayalu Mandapam
The Krishnadevarayalu Mandapam is named after the famous Vijayanagara King Sri Krishnadevararaya. It is present adjacent to the Maha Dwaram. This mandapam is completely constructed with the Vijayanagara style, this mandapam is a high-rise porch and it features the bronze statues of the king and his consorts, Tirumala Devi and Chinna devi. These statues face the Lord with folded hands and were installed on January 2, 1517 A.D.
3. Addala Mandapam
The Addala Mandapam or Glass Porch is another magnificent structure within the temple located 12 feet north of the Krishnadevarayalu Mandapam. Built in 1831, this mandapam is where the Dolotsavam is performed daily at 2 PM. “Dola” means swing and “utsavam” means celebration. During this ceremony, the deity is gently swung while devotional prayers are sung. This ritual symbolizes the rhythmic movement of the universe and the joy of the divine.
4. Four Pillared Mandapam
This is a smaller mandapam that was built in 1470 A.D. by Saluva Narasimha Raya, who was the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire during that time. It is located precisely in the Sampangi Pradakshinam. The pillars of this mandapam are dedicated to him, his wife, and his two sons, Saluva Timma and Saluva Narasimha Raya II.
5. Kalyanotsava Mandapam
The Kalyanotsava Mandapam is a significant structure where the divine celestial wedding of Lord Venkateshwara and Padmavathi is performed. Initially, this ceremony was held in the Vimana Pradakshinam and later in the Ranganayaka Mandapam, but due to the increasing number of devotees wishing to participate in the event, this Kalyanotsava Mandapam was constructed to accommodate larger crowds.
6. Garuda Mandapam
This Mandapam is situated directly opposite the Golden Gate, where a six-foot-high statue of Garuda, shown saluting the Lord with folded hands, is prominently displayed. Each morning at pre-dawn, the priests recite the Suprabhatham (morning hymns) in the area between the Golden Gate and Garuda’s statue. The Lord is ceremoniously seated on the golden throne in this mandapam, where he is believed to listen to the recital of the almanac, as well as the presentation of the temple’s expenditure report.
7. Snapana Mandapam
Snapanana Mandapam is built right across the golden gate. The idol of Koluvu Sinivasa Murthy is brought here and placed on the golden throne everyday after the Thomasala Seva.
8. Sayana Mandapam
In this Mandapam, a golden cot with a silk mattress, suspended by silver chains, is displayed. The idol of the Lord is placed in a relaxed position on this cot, giving the mandapam its name, “Sayana Mandapam”, which means “Hall of Rest.” Offerings to the Lord are reverently placed in front of the idol here.
9. Dwajasthambha Mandapam
The Dwajasthambha Mandapam, or flagstaff pavilion, is situated near the center of the temple complex. This spectacular twenty-pillared square mandapam features a tall golden flagstaff, which is an important aspect of the temple’s architecture as it marks the commencement of all special rituals and festivals. A flagstaff bearing the emblem of Garuda is hoisted during the Brahmotsavam festival to signify the invitation and presence of all deities (Yaksha, Kinnera and Gandharva.
Bali Peetam (Altar)
Adjacent to the flagstaff stands the Bali Peetam, or altar. It is the place where sacred offerings are made. After the Naivedyam (food offering) is presented to the Lord and other deities, the prasadam is placed on this altar. It is believed that the prasadam placed on this altar is accepted by various deities, angels, and divine forces.
Vimana (Sanctum tower)
The Vimana, or tower, of the Tirupati Balaji temple, stands tall directly above the Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum), the place where the deities reside. The tower is a symbol of purity and glory, and to depict this, it is completely gilded with gold. The Vimana is an exemplary showcase of artistic skill, reflecting the devotion and spiritual aspiration with which the artisans must have worked. The tower features intricate carvings of deities and various religious motifs, adding to its grandeur.
Pushkarini
The Pushkarini is the temple tank at Tirumala, sitting right beside the Sri Venkateswara Temple. Pilgrims often take a dip here before heading into the temple. According to legend, this sacred lake originally belonged to Vishnu in Vaikuntam and was brought to Earth by Garuda. Once a year, on Mukkoti Dwadasi, the tank is said to receive the spiritual mergings of countless holy waters, making a dip here equivalent to bathing in the Ganges.
Bangaru Vakili (Golden Door)
This is the main entrance that leads to the sanctum sanctorum. The name Golden Door comes from the stone frame and the porches of Jaya-Vijaya, which are gold-plated.
Sculptures and Deities
The artistry of the sculptures and deities enriches the architecture of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. At the core are the ‘Pancha Beramulu’ or ‘Five Main Idols,’ each with unique significance and intricate designs.
1. Dhruva Beram (Main Idol):
The primary stone deity of Lord Venkateshwara, known as Moolavirat or Dhruva Beram, stands around 8 feet tall and is considered the temple’s central source of divine energy.
2. Kautuka Beram (Bhoga Srinivasa):
This small silver idol was donated by Pallava Queen Samavai Perindevi in 614 AD. Its unique 45-degree angle towards devotees and connection to the main deity signify a readiness to bless and protect.
3. Snapana Beram (Ugra Srinivasa):
This idol represents the Lord’s fierce aspect and hence this deity is kept in the sanctum and emerges only on Kaishika Dwadasi each year.
4. Malayappa Swami (Utsava Beram):
This deity is generally known as the processional deity, Malayappa Swami and his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi, engage with devotees in festivals and parades.
5. Koluvu Srinivasa (Bali Beram):
Koluvu Srinivasa swamy is often called the temple’s “guardian,” who is said to oversee all the financial and ritual activities.
6. Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman Sculptures:
The idol of Rama, referred to as Sri Raghunatha, is sculpted in the “tribhanga” posture, while Hanuman, with a hand to his mouth, humbly pays homage to Rama.
7. Krishna and Rukmini:
This notable sculpture within the temple depicts Krishna in a joyful dance pose, holding a dollop of butter, while his consort Rukmini raises her hand in blessing.
8. Vishwaksena (Lord Vishnu’s Guardian):
This idol is often seen as the divine commander of Vishnu’s forces. Vishwaksena’s idol is an exact replica of the main deity’s form.
Entrance Archways
1. The Maha Dwaram
The Maha Dwaram is the primary gateway into the Tirumala Temple complex. This place is also known as Padivaakili or Simhadwaram. It features three consecutive entrances with intricate detailing. The first is the brass entrance, the second is a silver doorway, and the final one is the gold entrance. The Maha Dwaram is a towering structure that stands 50 feet high. The doors of the Maha Dwaram have been repeatedly reconstructed and heightened over the centuries, with most differences made during the Vijayanagara period.
The statues of Shankanidhi and Padmanidhi are placed on either side of the Maha Dwaram, consecrated by the Vijayanagara emperor Achyuta Rayalu. Achyuta Rayalu is the younger brother of King Sri Krishna Devaraya. The two statues are said to guard Lord Balaji’s treasure and symbolize divine wealth and prosperity.
2. Vaikunta Dwaram (Heavenly Gate)
Unlike the Maha Dwaram, the Vaikunta Dwaram is comparatively smaller and is located on the left side of the main shrine. It opens only twice a year, during Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi. It does not have a separate gopuram or elaborate decorations. Entering through this gate is considered very auspicious, symbolizing entry into Heaven.
Temple Complex Infrastructure
1. Kitchen (Potu)
The Potu is a vast kitchen where the famous Tirupati laddus and other prasadam are prepared daily, serving thousands of devotees.
2. Administrative Offices
The administrative offices of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) manage all aspects of the temple’s operations, including finance, security, and pilgrim services.
3. Dormitories and Guest Rooms
The temple complex features multiple dormitories and guest houses, accommodating millions of pilgrims each year.
The architectural grandeur of the Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is a splendid example of the beauty of Southern India’s artistic style. A glimpse of the cultural richness of ancient and modern India can be witnessed through this timeless beauty. The contributions of various dynasties add to the historical value of the temple. Therefore, tracing the architectural value of the Tirupati Balaji Temple is equivalent to tracing the entire history of the Lord Venkateshwara Temple.
To experience the breathtaking beauty of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple’s architecture and enjoy a profound spiritual journey, make sure to plan your trip in advance. For a convenient visit, take advantage of online booking to ensure a perfect and memorable experience.
