Press Release

Tirumala, Feb 2, 2010 :

Denying the speculations that some sevas and Arjitha Sevas would be abolished or brought-out of the temple, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams(TTD) Executive officer Mr.I.Y.R.Krishna Rao today clarified that all the sevas to the ‘ Moolavarlu and Utsavarlu ‘ continue as usual and the sarva dashan holders can have darshan of the Lord Balaji during the ‘Thomala and Archana “ sevas also from March 5, 2010 from Tuesday to Thursday even as of now this is the case from Friday to monday.

Addressing at a press conference held at Annammayya bhavan here over retionalization of seva tickets here, the Executive officer said based on the recommendation submitted by a committee consisting of TTD Adviser Mr.P.V.R.K.Prasad, Principal Secretary (Rev & Endts), Commissioner Endowments and Executive officer, it’s the board had decided to have only booking for arjitha sevas thro E-Seva centres, Internet and by advance reservation by sending Demand Draft’s in advance.

From March 5, All advance bookings will only be for a period of 90 days, however, whatever is booked already would be continued, he said, the pilgrim, who do not have access to internet or e-darshan facility will book their arjitha seva tickets by sending Demand Draft to the Arjitham Office.

Identity proof would be insisted for booking arjitha seva tickets.

The issue also be interacted with the pilgrims during the next ‘ Dail your EO ‘ programme to be held on 5 th Feb, 2010 and the pilgrims can express their views on the proposed decision taken by the Board, he added.

Statement Showing the No. Of tickets already issued under Advance Booking, and the tickets proposed under Internet Booking, E-Darshan Booking, Advance reservation and Current booking

Name of the Seva	Arjitha Seva Tickets Available for booking From March 5 th 2010
Name of the Seva	Advance booking already done	Advance booking available	Current booking	Internet booking	E-Darshan booking	Discretionary quota	Maximum limit	Total no. of tickets available for booking
Suprabatham Including USSES,VVD,DVD	150 (Comprises of 60 A.B. +30USSES+30VVD+30 DVD) Quota Full up to 2014	50	Nil	50	50	100	400	150
Thomala Seva Including USSES	81 (Comprises of 51AB+30USSES) Quota Full up to 2019	Nil	Nil	10	Nil	34	125	10
Archana seva Including USSES	81 (Comprises of 51A.B.+30USSES) Quota Full up to 2019	Nil	Nil	10	Nil	34	125	10
Kalyanotsavam	-	150	Nil	150	150	150	600	450

NOTE: THE SEVAS LIKE ARJITHA BRAHMOTSAVAM, UNJAL SEVA, VASANTHOTSAVAM, SAHASRA DEEPALANKARA SEVA, NIJAPADA DARSHANAM, ASTADALAPADAPADMARADHANA, SAHASRAKALASABHISHEKAM, THIRUPPAVADA, POORABHISHEKAM, MELCHAT VASTRAM EXISTING SYSTEM CONTINUES.

PIC- e-darshan and e-booking of Lord Venkateswara

The divine shrine of Lord Venkateswara has also been e-enabled for the benefit of lakhs of devotees landing here for his darahsn.

The Tirumala Tirupati Dewasthanam's( TTD) have developed a Pilgrim Information Centre ( PIC) with the support of IT gaint HCL to keep the devotees informed about the sevas, darshan, travel and other amenities available a t the Tirumala and Tirupati on a 24x7 basis .

The small centre nestled in the Administrative offices of the TTD is always buzzling with activity as they receive 1500 domestic calls during day and hundreds of overseas calls during nights .

"They ask us about availability from three months to five years and also enquire about their DD's sent earlier and confirmation" says Raju, an executive of the PIC.

The HCL has developed the technology and is also maintaining it free of cost for the TTD.Twentyeight executives including 18 women and four supervisors are trained to receive calls from all over the world and speak in English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi .

The PIC has links with the Arjitha seva server on internet to get information on the devotees requests for darshan spread over five years.

Centre head K B Srihari says that e-darshan is also made available gby offering them tickets for sevas after three days of booking upto 90 days .

He says they offered information on all services including doantions, accomodation, sevas, travel and also tenders called for by the TTD. " This is an one window facility for all enquiries about the TTD's funcitoning " he says.

The PIC also undertook netbooking of all requirements of the devotees online . "All the devotees hve to do on landing at Tirumala is to provide proff of their identity and get all the benefits for which they had already paid for ", he says.

Once the payments is confirmed the TTD sent a confirmation letter to them to the address mentioned so that there is no ambiguity on their requests.

"The e-darshan and PIC are two unique facilities offered on line by the TTD for the benefit of devotees who are busy and also come prepared for their visit to Tirupati "says K V Ramanachari, the Excecutive Oficer of TTD.

It is now possible to make an e-booking of your darsham with the presiding deity of Lord Venkateswara just like you book your travel . All you have to do is to dial 0877- 22 77777 or 2233333 for instant information and bookings .

Tirumala - a paradise for pilgrims

The hoarse cry of Govinda, Govinda reverberates the Sheshagiri Hills of Tirumala reminds every visitor that he was in the care of the Sri Venkateswara .

Lakhs of pilgrims chant the Govinda mantra as they enter the abode of Sri Venkateswara .The mantra gives them energy to wait for hours for the darshan of the presiding deity of Tirumala and also stamina to come on foot trekking 3661 steps and nine kms from the Tirupati .

The deity is hailed as Perumal down south , Srinivasa in West and Balaji in North . But for all he is the saviour from all difficulties and hardships and a messiah and savior .

For the devout followers of Perumal alias Sri Venkateswara or Malayalappaswami across the globe , Tirumala is just the heaven on earth and for pilgrims across the country it is a paradise.

The serpentine ghat roads surrounded by velvet green forests enchant the pilgrims who arrive in lakhs for the glimpse of Sri Venkateswara who blesses them to achieve their goals and gives boons to every one and all.

or many just the darhsan of Sri Venkateswara is fulfillment of their life ambition and such devouts come all the way from parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka . “They do not seek rooms or prasadam but only the darshan of their beloved deity “ says Dr.A.V. Ramana Dikshitulu the chief priest of Tirumala .

Gold plating of Ananda Nilayam

The historic dcision to gold plate the Ananda Nilayam, the sanctum santorum of the Tirumala temple will be implemented today.

The chief minister Dr.Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy will launch the first phase of Ananda Nilayam- Ananta Swarnamayam Pathakam estimated to cost Rs.100 crore .

The exercise of gold plating the Srivari Temple began way back in 1267 when the then Pandyan king Sundara Pandyan got done the Kalasham of the temple . Later the Salva King Mungidevudu in 1359 and the Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishna Devaraya provided gold for the entire gopuram of the sanctum of the Srivari temple. In 1958 the Temple authorities got the sanctum outerwall gold plated with 12 kgs of gold donated by the devotees.

The TTD chairman Sri. AdiKeshavulu Naidu says that the TTD board has taken up this unique program as per the suggestions of Agama Shastra pundits and the Peethadhipathis of the Vaikhanasa cult to enhance the divine energy around the Srivari Temple .

The authorities have plans to digitise the inscriptions on the outer and inner walls of the Ananda Nilayam stretching around 10,000 square feet . "Even the gold plating will be done without damaging the inscriptions by leaving an half inch gap between the wall and the plating ", says the Executive Officer Sri. K.V.Ramanachari.

The entire project is expected to cost over Rs.100 crore and the TTD has kept its doors open for the donations for the gold plating program which has already attracted devotees from all ove rthe world with their offerings.

"The devotees who offer one kg of gold or multiples will be honored in a unique manner by the temple authorities " he says . The donor scheme will provide them special benefits and othe concessions in darshan, accomodation, prasadam etc once a year .

With the gold plating of the Srivari Ananda Nilayam, the TTD will be one among the several Indian temples like Golden temple of Amristsar to achieve the feat . "We will be more unique as the TTD will spend over Rs.1000 crore for the purpose " says the TTD chairman Sri.Adikeshavulu Naidu

Tirupati, Feb 08 2010

SRI KALYANA VENKATESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE BRAHMOTSAVAM- KALPAVRUKSHA VAHANAM

On the 4th day of ongoing Annual Brahmotsavam, the Processional Diety of Lord Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy along with His consorts in form of "RAJ MANNAR" were taken around mada streets atop Kalpa vruksha Vahanam in Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati on Monday morning.

Tirupati, Feb 07 2010

SRI KALYANA VENKATESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE BRAHMOTSAVAM- SIMHA VAHANAM

On the third day of the ongoing nine-day annual Brahmotsavam in Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati, the processional deity of Lord Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy, mounted atop the `SIMHA VAHANAM' in form of Yoga Narasimha Swamy, was taken out in a grand procession on Sunday morning.

Tirupati, Feb 07 2010

Sri KALYANA VENKATESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE ANNUAL BRAHMOTSAVAM BEGINS

`Dwajarohanam' was performed in the temple of Lord Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy at Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati, signalling the commencement of the nine-day annual `Brahmotsavam' of Lord Kalyana Venkateswara on Friday.

Tirumala, Jan 31 2010

THREE DAY ASTHOTTARA SATHAKUNDATHMAKA MAHA SANTHI YAGAM CONCLUDES

Hon'ble Chief Minister Dr. K.Rosaiah took part On the last day of three day "ASTHOTTARA SATHAKUNDATHMAKA MAHA SANTHIYAGAM", in which priests performed Purnahuthi at Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati on Jan 31.

Tirumala 31 Jan(P.R.O) The three-day ‘Shatha Kundatmaka Maha Shanthi Homam’ conducted by the TTD at its Srinivasamangapuram temple near here concluded on a spiritual note with hundreds of ritviks and vedic pundits performing the concluding ritual, ‘Poornahuthi’ amid religious fervour.

Chief Minister K. Rosaiah along with wife, participated in the closing ritual and handed over to the priests a silver plate containing a range of puja materials such as herbs, sandalwood, spices, dry-fruits, ghee etc which were later offered into the sacrificial fire amid chanting of verses from the four Vedas by a battery of veda pundits.

The bejewelled processional deities of Lord Srinivasa and his two consorts were placed on the stage specially put up at the venue for the conduct of Poornahuthi even as priests performed homam with ghee in the 108 homa kundams set up at the venue amid chanting of holy mantras. The three-day elaborate ritual was performed to let peace, tranquillity and prosperity prevail in the society for the good of all and to ward-off catastrophes and natural calamities. Chief Minister visited the Srinivasa Mangapuram temple and offer prayers in the temple, located barely 12 kms from Tirupati. On his arrival at the temple from the adjoining ‘yaga shala’, he was received with temple honours and conducted into the sanctum sanctorum where he stood for nearly ten minutes and paid his obeisance to the deity, specially decorated with dazzling diamond ornaments befitting the grand event.

Tirumala, Jan 31 2010

1st CONVOCATION OF S.V.VEDIC UNIVERSITY

His Excellency Sri Rameshwar Thakur, Governor of Madhya Pradesh, His Excellency Sri E.S.L.Narasimhan, Governor Of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. K.Rosaiah, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTD were present on the occassion of First Convocation of Sri Venkateswara Vedic University in Tirupati on Sunday.

Tirumala, Jan 31 2010

INAUGURATION OF PHOTO METRIC SYSTEM AT VAIKUNTAM Q COMPLEX

Sri Gade Venkata Reddy, Hon'ble Minister for Endowments inaugurated Photo Metric System( Facial Indentification technology) at Vaikuntam Q Complex, Tirumala on Sunday morning.

Tirumala 31 Jan(P.R.O) Hon’ble Endowment Minister Sri Gade Venkata Reddy inaugurated the “Photo Biometric” system at the Vaikuntam Q Complex – II. The system enables the waiting devotees in the darshan compartments move out of the labyrinthine queue complex and re enter at the scheduled time for the darshan of the Lord.

Sri P.Ramachandra Reddy, Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs, Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, Sri K.Chiranjeevi, MLA, TTD Board Members Sri Kale Yadaiah, Dr. M.Anjaiah, Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri Alluru Subramanyam, Sri Ch.Sathyanarayana, TTDs Spl Officer Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Chief Engineer Sri V.S.B.Koteswara Rao, S.E Sri Ramachandra Reddy and others were present.

Tirumala, Jan 31 2010

LAYING OF FOUNDATION STONE FOR KALYANA VEDIKA

Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Dr. K.Rosaiah laid foundation stone for KALYANA VEDIKA near Papavinasanam Toll gate at Tirumala on Sunday morning.

Tirumala, Jan 31 2010

SRIVARI LADDU PRASADA BOONDI PREPARATION CENTRE

Dr. K.Rosaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh inaugurated Sri Vari Laddu Prasada Boondi Prepartion centre and Conveyor Belt near Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on Sunday morning.

Tirumala 31 Jan(P.R.O) Chief Minister K. Rosaiah inaugurated the newly-constructed ‘Boondi’ mixture plant situated adjacent to the main temple complex here on Sunday. The commissioning of the Rs. 5 crore plant will enable the temple management to produce over five lakh laddus every day.

The laddus prepared inside the temple kitchen (Potu) will be re-transmitted into the new building through a conveyor belt system and later despatched to the laddu distribution counters.

Hon’ble Ministers Sri Gade Venkata Reddy, Sri P.Ramachandra Reddy, Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs, Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, Sri K.Chiranjeevi, MLA, TTD Board Members Sri Kale Yadaiah, Dr. M.Anjaiah, Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri Alluru Subramanyam, Sri Ch.Sathyanarayana, TTDs Spl Officer Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Chief Engineer Sri V.S.B.Koteswara Rao, S.E Sri Ramachandra Reddy and others were present.

Tirumala, Jan 30 2010

RELEASE OF ANNAMAIAH SWARNALATHARCHANAM AUDIO CD

HE Governor Of Andhara Pradesh Sri E.S.L.Narasimhan, HE Governor of Madhya Pradesh Sri Rameshwar Thakur, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Dr. K.Rosaiah released Audio CD "ANNAMAIAH SWARNALATHARCHANAM" Sung by Bharath Rathna Dr. Latha Mangeshkar at Nada Neerajanam Mandapam infront of the temple at Tirumala on Saturday evening.

Tirumala, Jan 30 2010

HON'BLE CHIEF MINISTER OF ANDHRA PRADESH VISIT TO SRI VARI TEMPLE

Tirumala 30 Jan(P.R.O) Hon'ble Chief Minister of A.P Dr. K.Rosaiah visit to Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on Saturday evening. On his arrival in front of Sri Vari Temple the priests and officials have welcomed the Hon'ble Chief Minister with Temple honors. After dharshan of lord, the Chairman TTDs Sri D.K.Audikesavulu has presented Sri Vari Prasadam, the veda pandits of the temple have blessed him with Vedic Hymns at Ranganayakula Mandapam.Hon'ble Ministers Sri D.Prasada Rao, Sri Gade Venkata Reddy, Sri Ramachandra Reddy, accompanied Chief Minister.

TTD E.O Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, TTD JEO Dr. N.Yuvaraj, TTD Spl Officer Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, C.V.&S.O Sri P.V.S.Ramakrishna, DyE.O Temple Sri Gopalakrishna, Temple Peishkar Sri Ananda Reddy and others were present.

Tirumala, Jan 30 2010

HE GOVERNOR OF ANDHRA PRADESH VISIT TO SRI VARI TEMPLE

Tirumala 30 Jan(P.R.O) His Excellency Sri E.S.L.Narasimhan, Governor of Andhra Pradesh visited Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on saturday evening. On his arrival in frontof Sri Vari Temple the priests and officials have welcomed the Hon'ble Chief Minister with Temple honors ( ISTHIPAKAL). After dharshan of lord, the Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Spl Officer TTDs has presented Sri Vari Prasadam, the veda pandits of the temple have blessed him with Vedic Hymns at Ranganayakula Mandapam. Hon'ble Ministers Sri Gade Venkat Reddy, Sri D.Prasada Rao, accompanied the Governor.

Tirupati, Jan 29 2010

THREE DAY ASTHOTTARA SATHAKUNDATHMAKA MAHA SANTHI YAGAM BEGINS

Tirumala 29 Jan(P.R.O) Astottara Sathakundathamaka Maha Santhi Yagam is a typical form of fire sacrifice performed to please the deities for providing peace, prosperity and happiness for the mankind. It is also a process of propitiating the deities who look after the various aspects of human welfare, the TTD has been organising similar programme whenever the instances of deities and catastrophe are citied are signalled by the pundits. It is a good fortune that Lord Venkateswara is pleased to fructify the objectives of the Yaga. This time with 108 Yaga kundas, the Maha Santhi Yaga is being organised at Srinivasa Mangapuram.

The Hon’ble Chairman Sri D.K.Audikesavulu has today prayed Lord Venkateswara Swamy for well being of the state and country. The Chairman has participated in “ASTHOTTARA SATHAKUNDATHMAKA MAHA SANTHI YAGAM” organized by TTD in Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati. The Chairman took “Sankalpam” for the good of state on this sacred occasion as the Rithviks recited Vedic mantras.

Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTD Board Members Dr.M. Anjaiah, Sri Alluru Subramanyam, TTD Joint Executive Officer Dr. N.Yuvaraj, Sri Sudharshan Sarma, Vice-Chancellor S.V.Vedic University, TTD Officers Sri Sudhakar Rao, Sri Nageswara Rao, Smt. Jhansi Rani, TTD Vaikhanasa Agama Advisor Sri Vedantam Vishnu Battacharyulu, Srinivasa Charyulu and 150 Veda pundits participated in the Yagam.

Tirupati, Jan 26 2010

REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATIONS IN TTD ADM BLDG

Republic Day Celebrations held in TTD Adm Bldg, Tirupati on tuesday morning. TTD EO Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao hoisted National Flag and inspected guard of honor. The Executive Officer gave away 5 gm silver medal and a merit certificate to 108 employees for their impressive service rendered last year and followed by cultural programmes.

Tirupati, Jan 25 2010

ANNUAL FLOAT FESTIVAL OF SRI GOVINDARAJA SWAMY

Tirumala, Jan 24 2010

CHIEF SECRETARY OF ANDHRA PRADESH VISIT TO SRI VARI TEMPLE

Sri S.V.Prasad, Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh had darshan of Lord Venkateswara along with his family members in Tirumala on Sunday morning. After dharshan of lord, the Chairman TTDs Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs and Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTDs has presented Sri Vari Prasadam, the veda pandits of the temple have blessed him with Vedic Hymns at Ranganayakula Mandapam.

Tirumala, Jan 23 2010

TTD TRUST BOARD MEETING

TTD Trust Board Meeting held under the Chairmanship of Sri D.K.Audikesavulu Naidu at Annamayya Bhavan, Tirumala on Saturday.

Tirumala 23 Jan(P.R.O) TTD Trust Board Meeting held under the Chairmanship of Sri D.K.Audikesavulu Naidu at Annamayya Bhavan, Tirumala on Saturday

The following decisions were taken in the meeting:

As part of security measures it is decided to arrange fencing (with grill gates) around four mada streets with necessary gates.
Instructed the engineering wing to complete the works of Kalyana Vedika located enroute to Papavinasanam within three months.
It is decided to arrange a Gemmology Lab for the testing of Quality of Jewels at a cost of Rs. 50 lakhs with the support of experts in this field and Government Mint.
For providing better amenities to the pilgrims and to seek public opinion on pilgrim’s facilities, Q lines management, Agamas and rituals, charitable activities, Annadanam, Security, Kalyana Katta and other related subjects, TTD will conduct a seminar in the first week of March 2010 in SVETA, Tirupati. Experts from different walks of life public and pilgrims can take part in the seminars so as to give good suggestions.
It is decided to request the government to seek the statues of deemed university to the present S.V.Music College.
The TTD will start Loka Kalyana Radhams (moving temples) i.e. three Radhams in the month of March first week. The Radhams along with Lord Idols, priests etc. Will stay in the rural places for a week or ten days and arrange different charitable, religious and bhakthi activities as part of Hindu Dharma Pracharam.
Medical allowances and other facilities will be extended to the retired Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad employees.
An MoU is made with Shankar Netralaya, Chennai to maintain the present Srinivasa Shankar Netralayam,TTD Tirupati for a period of one year.
It is decided to complete the works and hand over the golden crown for Gyanaprasoonambika Amma Varu of Sri Kalahasthi.
The students of Smartha, Veda in TTD Veda Patasala will be deposited Rs. 3 lakhs as deposit. After the completion of 12 year of duration, each student will get Rs. 12 lakhs. Similarly some more Veda Patasala will also be established in Chilkur, Manthani, and Produttur in Andhra Pradesh.

Later he announced that His Excellency the Governor of Andhra Pradesh and His Excellency of Governor of Madhya Pradesh and Hon’Ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh will participate in Nada Neerajanam programme in connection with Latha Mangeshkar audio CD release on Jan 30 at 7pm, convocation of S.V.Vedic University at 9.30am on Jan 31 and Purnahuthi of Asttothara Sathakundathmaka Maha Santhi Yagam at Srinivasa Mangapuram by 11.30am on Jan 31 he added. Later he also informed that the TTD is also planning to conduct an International Vedic conference in Tirumala in the month of March 2010.

Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTDs, Sri Sundara Kumar, Endt Commissioner, TTD Board Members Sri Alluru Subramanyam, Smt. Indira Reddy, Sri Muthyam Reddy, Sri Routu Suryaprakash Rao, Sri Chavireddy Bhaskar Reddy, Dr.M.Anjaiah, Sri Kale Yadaiah, Sri Ch.Sathyanarayana, Sri Murali, DyEO(General) were present.

Tirumala, Jan 22 2010

RADHASAPTHAMI FESTIVAL IN SRIVARI TEMPLE

Processional deity of Lord Malayappaswamy taken out in procession around four mada streets at Tirumala from 5.30am to 8.00am in connection with Radhasapthami Festival. The Malayappaswamy waited in south mada street till sun rays fall on him at 6.58am.

CHINNA SESHA VAHANAM --------------------------------------- CHAKRASNANAM

GARUDA VAHANAM-------------- HANUMANTHA VAHANAM

SARVABHOOPALA VAHANAM------------------ DANCE

KALPAVRUKSHA VAHANAM ------------ CHANDRA PRABHA VAHANAM

Tirumala 22 Jan(P.R.O) The annual ‘Rathasapthami’ festival was traditionally observed at the famous hill temple of Lord Venkateswara amidst great religious fervour on Friday. Tens of thousands of devotees from all over the State and the neighbouring States of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka congregated atop the sacred shrine to participate in the mega event also popularly known as ‘Surya Jayanthi’ festival.

The processional deity of Lord Malayyapaswamy mounted atop seven different vahanams like – Suryaprabha, chinna Sesha, Garuda, Hanumantha, Kalpavruksha, Sarvabhoopala and Chandra Prabha were carried out in different intervals.

The festival, which has a great mythological importance started with the commencement of ‘Suryaprabha Vahanam’ in the wee hours of Friday and will conclude with the procession of Chandraprabha Vahanam in the night.

Meanwhile. thousands of devotees congregated at the north-west corner of the temple town as early as 4.00 a.m. on Friday morning to catch the rare sight of ‘first rays’ of the sun falling on the feet of the deity mounted atop the Golden ‘Suryaprabha Vahanam’.

The congregated devotees who till then waited patiently chanting the ‘Govindanamam’ went into thunderous raptures the moment the sun rays touched the feet of the Lord.

Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs, Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Spl Officer, Sri P.V.S.Ramakrishna, C.V&S.O, Sri Gopalakrishna, DyEO(Temple), TTD Board Members Sri Ch.Sathyanarayana, Sri Alluru Subramanyam, Smt. Indira Reddy and others were also took part.

Tirupati, Jan 19 2010

EO TTD VISIT TO TTDs CENTRAL HOSPITAL

Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer is seen inspecting Drug Store in TTDs Central Hospital in Tirupati on Jan 19

Tirumala, Jan 16 2010

Meeting on Conduct of Satakundatmaka (108) Maha Santhi Yagam

Tirupati 16 Jan(P.R.O) The officials concerned have to take precautionary steps for necessary arrangements to conduct Satakundatmaka (108) Maha Santhi Yagam at Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Srinivasa Mangapuram told Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTDs.

On Saturday morning he reviewed the arrangements for Adbutha Santhi Yagam to be conducted from Jan 29 to Jan 31. Speaking on this occassion the EO said that the yagam will be conducted for the Loka Kalyanam. In the three days programme, yagam commences by 8.30am, snapana Tirumanjanam by 12noon, Vishnu Sahasranama Parayanam by 6pm he added. He further said that Sri K.Rosaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister will also be participating in the purnahuthi programme to be conducted at 11.45am on Jan 31.

Dr. N.Yuvaraj, Joint Executive Officer, Sri P.V.S.Ramakrishna, C.V&S.O, Sri VSB.Koteswara Rao, Chief Engineer, Sri Ramesh Reddy, Supdt Engineer, Sri R.Kavitha Prasad, Secretary HDPP and others have participated in the meeting.

Tirumala, Jan 15 2010

PURANDARADASA ARADHANA MAHOTSAVAM AT NARAYANAGIRI GARDENS

Tirumala 15 Jan(P.R.O) Great Bhakhti philosophers like Annamaiah, Thyagaiah, Purandara Dasa, Meerbai, Chaitanya Prabhu have spreaded the Dharma and Bhakthi through music and literature across the nation told Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs.

On Friday evening he has attended the Aradhanotsavams of Purandaradasa held at Narayanagiri Gardens, Tirumala. Speaking on this occassion, he said that a person who dislikes music and literature can be treated as beast. He praised the works of Sri Purandaradasa who strived a lot to spread Bhakthi, Dharma and values through his keerthanas. Although he sang in Kannada language the keerthanas are simple, rythemic and even common man can understand easily he added.

Sri I.Y.Krishna Rao,Executive Officer, TTDs, have also spoke on this occassion. Later the Keerthanas sung by Sri Raichur Seshagiridas and party from Karnataka enthralled the devotees.

Earlier, the Lord Malayappaswamy along with His cosorts have taken out in procession from Sri Vari Temple to Narayanagiri Gardens for Asthanam chanting Hare Srinivasa and Kollatams, Bhajans by Thousands of devotees from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Sri Ananda Theerthacharyulu, Spl Officer, TTDs Dasa Sahitya Project and number of devotees have attended.

Tirumala, Jan 15 2010

PARVETA UTSAVAM

Tirumala 15 Jan(P.R.O) Religious fervour marked the `Parveti utsavam' (forest safari) celebrated in Tirumala on Friday evening.

The processional deity of Lord Malayappa Swamy along with Lord Krishna, attired in traditional robes of `King Hunter' and equipped with his `panchayudhas' - `Sankham', `Chakram', `Gada', `Bana' and Khadgam -- was taken to `parveti mandapam' situated about 2 km from the temple. Thereafter, the Lord, mounted atop the golden `Tiruchi', symbolically hunted deer tied in a nearby bush and other beasts, with the temple priest heading the ceremony carrying the golden spear.

BRIEF:

The `Parinayam' on this day is significant as it marks the wedding of the Lord with Goda Devi (Andal), whose `Tiruppavai' is being recited in the temple at the break of dawn instead of the customary Suprabhatam. Following the wedding is a `pleasure trip', meant to be a `forest safari' (Parveta). The hectic schedule of the day starts with the chief pontiff of the Pedda Jeeyangar Mutt handing over to the TTD authorities the garland specially brought from the main temple of Andal in Srivilliputtur (Tamil Nadu). The garland will be taken in a procession around the temple complex before being adorned to the Lord. Malayappa, the processional deity of Lord Venkateswara and the deity of Sri krishna will later be taken in a palanquin to the Parveta mandapam, situated on the outskirts of Tirumala at 6p.m. for a lively ritual that lasts for two hours.

Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman, TTDs, Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTD, Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Spl Officer,TTD Board Members Sri Chavireddy Bhaskar Reddy, Sri Kale Yadaiah, Smt. Indira Reddy, Sri P.V.S.Ramakrishna, C.V&S.O, Sri Gopalakrishna DyE.O(Temple), Sri Ananda Reddy, Peishkar,TTD officials and large number of devotees took part in this festival.

Tirupati, Jan 09 2010

METLOTSAVAM- POOJA TO STEPS

Tirupati 09 Jan(P.R.O) A Large number of Dasa devotees on Saturday trekked up the Tirumala footpath as part of the ‘Metlotsavam’ conducted by the TTD’s Dasa Sahitya Project.

The devotees, who gathered at Alipiri at 4.30 a.m. participated in the hour-long preliminary rituals performed in the presence of the Sri Sri Sri 1008 Sugeendra Theertha Swamy of Manthralayam. Over 2,500 devotees who came from different parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and other places later walked up the flight of steps singing compositions of the Kannada Dasas in praise of Lord Venkateswara.

They also performed pujas to the steps before starting their holy trek. Dasa Sahitya Project coordinator P.R. Ananda Theerthacharya were also present.

Tirupati, Jan 07 2010

THRAIMASIKA SRI VARI METLOTSAVAM

Tirupati 07 Jan(P.R.O) Thousands of Dasa devotees took part in ‘Metlotsavam’, the festival of steps, which began on Thursday. The event is conducted by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) management through Dasa Sahitya Project. ‘Bhajan’ troupes from all over South India, especially from across the Kannada land, are organised and brought under one roof to take part in the ritual every year.

The devotees started their holy trek from Sri Govindaraja Swamy temple here and went in a procession by Singing ‘bhajans’ on the glory of Lord Srinivasa amid the rhythmic beating of traditional drums and cymbals to Mahati auditorium. The male devotees were clad in traditional Dasa attire of yellow or saffron dhothis, while women wore bright yellow saris.

Sri I.Y.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer,Dasa Sahitya Project coordinator P.R. Ananda Theerthacharya spoke on the activities of the project. The devotees will take part in similar rituals in the local temples and trek the Tirumala footpath in the early hours of Saturday.

Tirupati, Jan 06 2010

Venkateswara swamy temple jewellery in safe and intact: verification committee

Tirupati 06 Jan(P.R.O) All the precious jewellery belongs to the world famous Venkateswara Swamy temple was in safe and intact, former Supreme Court judge D.P.Wadhwa said here today.

After completion of their physical verification of jewellery including records of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), mainly tirumala temple by the 6-member committee, which arrived here on January 4, addressing in a press conference, the Committee Chairman Mr.Wadha said that we have visited the Tirumala temple and verified physically all jewellery donated since 1952 including records maintaining by the TTD.

Its committee’s main focus was on whether the quality of jewels are in safe or maintains the jewels records as per the procedures or not, he said that every jewel pouring into the temple by way of donations from philanthropists across the world, are having “ clear history “ including each item weight in the records and maintaining it by TTD is well and satisfactorily .

The former Supreme Court judge has also said that its concern is not the valuation of the jewels and only that the procedures maintaining in the register by the TTD are intact or not.

There are no deviations in the procedures maintaining jewels records decades together, Mr.Wadha clarified and said that the gold dollars missing was not in its committee purview.

Regarding missing of diamonds or other stones from ornaments , Mr.Wadha and PVRK Prasad, who is also Co-ordinator in the committee, clarified that no diamond was broken and some of the stones which are broken or missing during the lord’s processions at Tirumala on various reasons, are in safe and recovered, which are also found in the records.

After visiting second time to the Tirumala temple mostly next month, would submit a detailed report regarding its observations on the temple jewellery to the TTD Executive Officer Mr.IYR Krishna Rao, Mr.Wadha added.

The six-member committee chaired by Mr.Wadha including former Supreme Court Judge Jagannadha Rao, former DGP of the state Mr.B.Prabhakar Rao, Senior Journalist Pothuri Venkateswara Rao and two former TTD executive Officers – P.V.R.K.Prasad and Venkatapathu Raju, were also verified the jewels records at TTD-run Padmavathi Ammavari temple located at Tirunachur near here.

The committee was constituted with the respectable persons by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to take up the sensitive task was a result of the fears created over the issue in the wake of certain scams, including the infamous ‘ dollar scam’ and pledging of TTD-run Kodandaramaswamy temple jewelry at a private pawn broker by the temple priest, which created adverse report in the print and electronic media and court cases.

Dr.N.Yuvaraj, Joint Executive Officer, TTD, Sri A.V.Dharma Reddy, Spl Officer, Sri Appa Rao, Div Law Officer, Sri P.V.S.Ramakrishna, C.V&S.O, Sri O.Balaji, Chief Accounts Officer were also present.

Tirumala, Jan 01 2010

INAUGURATION OF E DARSHAN COUNTER AT SRIVARI METTU

Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTDs inaugurated E-Darshan ticket issue counter at 1200 step for the benefit of the pilgrims who on foot at Sri Vari Mettu at Srinivasa Mangapuram near Tirupati on Friday evening

Hyderabad, Dec 16 2009

RELEASE OF SRI VARI 12 SHEET CALENDAR BY CHIEF MINISTER

Hyderabad 16 Dec (P.R.O) Chief Minister K Rosaiah today released the new 12 Sheet Calender of Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams for the year 2010.

The Chairman of the TTD Sri D.K. Adikeshavulu and Endownment Minister Of A.P Sri. Gade Venkat Reddy , Sri I.Y.R. Krishna Rao ,Executive officer of TTD and Sri. K V Ramanachari former EO of TTD and other memebrs of the TTD board participated.

Speaking on the ocassion the Chief Minister said he was happy that the TTD had been prompt and always ahead in its welfare activities and in providing more benefits to its pilgrims from all over the country .

Endownment minister Gade Venkat Reddy said the TTD had come out with several publications on religious and social perspectives of the organisation.

Chennai, Dec 11 2009

KALYANAMASTHU HELD IN CHENNAI, TAMIL NADU STATE FOR THE FIRST TIME

Chennai 11 Dec (P.R.O) Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams with the cooperation of the Chennai Local Advisory Committe has conducted Kalyanamasthu programme in Chennai VVR Dharmasala, royapettaiah on dec 11. The programme in conducted with vedic hymns besides Sri Vari Kalyanam nearly 57 couples have wedlocked in the presence of Lord Sri Venkateswara along with Goddess Sridevi and Bhudevi. As it is well known that the TTD has conducted 5 phases of kalyanamasthu across Andhra Pradesh and nearly 33 thousand couples wedlocked by the blessings of the Lord Venkateswara swamy. As per the decision of the TTD Trust Board similar kalyanamasthu is conducted today for the first time in Tamil Nadu i.e. other than Andhra Pradesh. The TTD has presented the couples golden mangalsutras, meettulu, Mangala Dravyalu, new clothes etc on free of cost, besided Lord Photo, calendar, etc.

Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman, Dr.N.Yuvaraj, Joint Executive Officer, Sri Bhupathi Reddy, DyEO, Sri Gopalakrishna, DyEO(Temple), Local Advisory Chairman Sri Anand Kumar Reddy, Members Prabhakara Reddy and others have blessed the newly weded couples.

Salem, Nov 29 2009

SRINIVASA PADMAVATHI KALYANAM IN SALEM (Tamil Nadu)

Salem 29 Nov(P.R.O) Srinivasa Padmavathi thiru Kalyanam held in Sona College of Technology grounds, Salem on Sunday evening with a grand manner.

SIGNIFICANCE OF LORD'S KALYANOTSAVAM:

Lord Venkateswara, the benign, resplendent Lord of Tirumala is renowned as the most benevolent boon-giver of Kliyuga. It is no wonder why lakhs of devout pilgrim visit Tirumala, worship Him and seek His blessings. Over the centuries, Tirumala, the abode of Lord Venkateswara or Balaji has become the most sought – pilgrim centre in the country.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams are dedicated themselves to the propagation of Hindu Dharma and service of Lord venkateswara whose abundant Grace is the source of all bliss.

The Devasthanams organize 'Srivari Kalyanam' every year as part of its programme to spread bhakti and promote spiritual values. 'Srinivasa Kalyanam' celebrated on the lines of the kalyanotsavam performed at Tirumala at all important places in the country is a rare occasion for the devotees to witness the Divine Wedding of the Lord and His consorts Lakshmi came to earth on the pretext of Bhrigu who wanted to determine the supremacy of one among the most revered three. Sri Hari desended to Venkatachala in the form of human being. (Yashoda took birth as Vakula Devi) Hari married Padmavathy, the daughter of Akasharaj. Lakshmi Devi who is the constant companion of Lord, living in his heart arranged this divine marriage. The Lord dwelling at Venkatadri came to be known Venkateswara, the destroyer of sins of mankind and the Salvation to human beings. The saviour of believers. As such Venkatachala became famous as Kaliyuga Vaikunta – The abode of Lord in Kaliyuga. It fulfills all the wishes of the believers. There is no place equal to Venkatadri and there is no God like Venkateswara in the universe either in the past or in the further – this is the epithet that has been gained over the years.

To imbibe devotion in the hearts of the common man, to get tranquility to the disturbed mind, and for those who are not in a position to travel all the way to Tirumala and perform Srinivasa Kalyana and for those who are not in a position to visit Tirumala for witnessing the padmavathy Parinaya. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Trust Board and its Executive Officer and the Dharma Prachara Parishad has planned this unique marriage to be performed in various important cities outside the state and district head quarters of Andhra Pradesh.

The archakas who perform pujas at Srivari Templeat Tirumala are the officiating priests for Srivari Kalyanam. The Festival is conducted as per the Hindu custom of marriage with homam, samprokshana and pravara (recitation of the line of ancestors of the Lord and Goddess). 'Srivari Kalyanam' is a unique opportunity for devotees to participate in a solemn ritual without any distinction of caste or creed. Witnessing 'Srinivasa Kalyanam' is a thrilling experience, ensuring the participants peace and happiness.

Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs, Dr. N.Yuvaraj, Joint Executive Officer, TTDs, Dr. Kavitha Prasad, Secretary Dharma Prachara Parishad, Sri Chandra Kumar, Dist Collector Salem, Sri Sunil Kumar Singh, I.P.S, I.G & Commissioner of Police, Sri Sivanandam, Thirukalyanam committe Chairman, Sri Thangaraj, V.C, Periyar University, DRO, Rajarathnam and large number of devotees.

Tirumala, Nov 18 2009

CHIEF MINISTER OF ANDHRA PRADESH VISIT TO SRI VARI TEMPLE

Hon'ble Chief Minister of A.P Sri ROSAIAH visited Sri Vari Temple, Tirumala on Tuesday evening. On his arrival in front of Sri Vari Temple the priests and officials have welcomed the Hon'ble Chief Minister with Temple honors ( ISTHIPAKAL). After dharshan of lord, the Chairman TTDs Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs and Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, TTDs has presented Sri Vari Prasadam, the veda pandits of the temple have blessed him with Vedic Hymns at Ranganayakula Mandapam. Hon'ble Ministers Sri Ramachandra Reddy, Smt. Galla Aruna Kumari, accompanied Chief Minister.

Hyderabad, Oct 28 2009

5th PHASE OF KALYANAMASTHU HELD WITH POMP AND GEITY

Hyderabad 28 Oct (P.R.O) Kalyanamasthu is a meeting of hearts told Sri N.D.Tiwari, HE Governor of Andhra Pradesh He has attended the 4thphase of Kalyanamasthu programme at Lalitha Kala Thoranam in Hyderabad on October 28.

Speaking on this occasion he said that Tirumala is a great pilgrimage centre and Seven Hills are sacred hills and also said that marriage is a very solemn event, particular this mass marriage he added. He blessed all the 153 couples.

Dr. Rosaiah garu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh said that TTD has done a good work i.e, Kalyanamasthu for five phases across the state. Nearly 35,000 couples have got married in the five phases of Kalyanamasthu. He congratulated the TTD for their service to the thousands of common people. Even the foreign couple have also got married in the Lalitha Kala Thoranam and it shows they have belief in Lord Venkateswara. He prayed the Lord to shower his blessings to all the couples.

Further it is to informe you that nearly 8086 marriages were performed in 216 constituency centres in 19 districts of Andhra Pradesh. The earlier four phases total figure was nearly 27,000 marriages.

The TTD has arranged Thalibotulu, silver meettulu, Pushthaka Prasadam, New clothes, meals etc., to the couples. Lord’s darshan will also be arranged to all the couples with their parents in Tirumala.

Sri D.K.Audikesavulu, Chairman TTDs has also addressed the gathering and told the importance of Kalyanamasthu.

Hon’ble Ministers Sri Gade Venkat Reddy, Smt Galla Aruna Kumari, Smt. Sabitha Indra Reddy, Sri Mukesh Goud, Sri D.Nagendar, M.P Sri Anjan Kumar Yadav, Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer, MLA Sri Kishan Reddy, TTD Board Members Sri Kale Yadaiah, Dr. Anjaiah, DPP Secretary Sri Kavitha Prasad and others blessed the newly wedded couples.

Tirumala, Oct 23 2009

PRESS MEET BY EXECUTIVE OFFICER ON SEEGRA DARSHANAM

Tirumala 23 Oct (P.R.O) Sri I.Y.R.Krishna Rao, Executive Officer TTD informed that pilgrims expressing happiness on Seegra Darshanam system which began on October 21 in Tirumala. Speaking with media at Annamayya Bhavan, Tirumala on October 23. He further said that to maintain Q lines of Seegra Darshanam pilgrims additional staff will be posted besides supply of water, Tea, Coffee, Tiffin’s etc., as when required. He appealed the pilgrims that Seegra Darshanam is not an instant darshanam and one have to wait for their Lord’ darshan thro seegra darshanam Q line.

He further clarified that the Sudarshan free token line which is being operated from Supatham may be shifted to VQC-II at footh path entrance point from 23.10.2009. Two more compartments may be added in VQC-II to accommodate free darshan token holders.

Kalyanotsavam, Unjal Seva/Dolotsavam, Arjitha Brahmotsavam and Vasanthotsavam seva ticket holders may be permitted from VQC-I through Supatham entry. For this purpose scanning facility for the tickets and Seegra Darsanam ticket issuing facility may be established at Supatham entry point. Necessary sign boards showing the entry be erected at Supatham and VQC-II he added.

Later he informed that the following timings are prescribed for issue of tickets on daily basis for Seegra Darsanam.

Saturday, Sunday & Monday

4.00AM to 5.00AM

7.00AM to 6.00PM