The
temple of Garuda (also called Garudalwar), is directly
opposite the presiding deity in the Sri Venkateswara temple.
Garuda is a faithful devotee of
the Lord and he stands with his hands joined in supplication
(the Anjali pose). Being the Lord's mount he is shown
with outstretched wings, ever ready to carry him. You
will find Garuda's image not only in the shrine but
also at the corners of the prakarams, mandapams
and vimanas.
At the commencement of the annual
Brahmotsavam of Lord Sri Venkateswara, a flag with the
image of Garuda is hoisted on the Dhwajasthamba. It
is believed that the Prasadam offered to Garuda
in this temple, if partaken, will bless the sterile
with children.
Every day, after completing the
early morning puja conducted for Lord Sri Venkateswara,
the Bali Bera of the Lord is taken out in a palanquin
to give offerings to Parivaradevatas. The Lord is believed
to personally supervise the food arrangements made for
his subordinates, attendants and devotees. The
palanquin called Sibika is considered to be Garuda himself.
An utsava murti of Garuda
is kept in the Ramar Meda along with other bronze images.
