Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
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History
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a form of Vishnu, located in the hill town of Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India, with over 50 million devotees visiting the temple every year.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century CE by the Chola dynasty. However, there is evidence that suggests that the temple may have been in existence even earlier. The temple is mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata, and is also mentioned in the Puranas.
The temple is built on a hilltop, and the main shrine is located at the top of the hill. The temple complex is spread over 10 acres and includes several other shrines, as well as a number of halls and courtyards. The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, and is housed in a large, golden-roofed temple. The shrine is surrounded by a number of smaller shrines, dedicated to other deities.
The temple is also home to a number of sacred objects, including the Sri Venkateswara Swamy idol, which is believed to be self-manifested. The temple is also home to a number of holy springs, which are believed to have healing powers.
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India. The temple is also a popular tourist destination, and attracts visitors from all over the world.
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Significance in Hinduism
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, who is considered to be one of the most popular deities in Hinduism. Lord Venkateswara is believed to be the protector of the universe, and is often worshipped for his grace and mercy.
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is also home to a number of sacred objects, including the Sri Venkateswara Swamy idol, which is believed to be self-manifested. The temple is also home to a number of holy springs, which are believed to have healing powers.
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India. The temple is also a popular tourist destination, and attracts visitors from all over the world.
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References
* [Tirumala Venkateswara Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumala_Venkateswara_Temple)
* [The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple: A Guidebook](https://www.amazon.com/
tirumala-venkateswara-temple-Guidebook/dp/8184820100)
* [The Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple: A Pilgrimage Guide](https://www.amazon.com/Sri-Venkateswara-Swamy-Temple-Pilgrimage/dp/8184820119)
Scriptural References
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Hinduism Scriptures
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Bhagavata Purana
* The Bhagavata Purana describes the origin of the temple and the deity enshrined within it. It states that the temple was built by the demigod Narada at the request of Lord Vishnu.
* The temple is said to be the abode of Lord Vishnu in his form as Venkateswara, the presiding deity of the temple.
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Srimad Bhagavad Gita
* The Srimad Bhagavad Gita is one of the most important Hindu scriptures. It is a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
* In the Gita, Lord Krishna explains the importance of devotion to God and the path of bhakti yoga.
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Ramayana
* The Ramayana is another important Hindu scripture. It tells the story of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu.
* In the Ramayana, Lord Rama is depicted as a righteous and compassionate king who is devoted to his wife, Sita.
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Mahabharata
* The Mahabharata is the longest epic poem in the world. It tells the story of the Kurukshetra War, which was fought between the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
* In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna is depicted as a charioteer for Arjuna, the Pandava prince.
These are just a few of the many Hindu scriptures that mention the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The temple is a sacred place for Hindus all over the world and is a popular pilgrimage destination.