The Tirupati Balaji or Shree Venkateshwara Swami temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, is renowned as one of India’s most famous temples. Hindu scriptures gloriously depict it as the earthly abode of Lord Vishnu during the Kali Yuga era. Situated in the Tirumala Hills, this temple holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and is a prominent landmark in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Devotees from all over visit this temple to seek blessings and fulfill their wishes. It is customary for devotees to make donations at the temple once their wishes are granted. The temple attracts thousands of devotees daily, especially during special festive occasions. However, due to the large crowds and tight security, getting a close view of Lord Venkateshwara can be challenging.
Interestingly, there is a specific day and time when devotees can get a closer view of the Lord Vishnu idol inside the temple. According to information found on Quora, the nearest Darshan (viewing) of Lord Venkateswara inside the Tirumala Temple occurs during the Suprabatham Seva, which takes place daily from 3:00 am to 4:00 am. Suprabhatam is the first and foremost pre-dawn ritual performed in the temple, and devotees need to visit the Vaikuntam Queue Complex-1, located opposite Vijaya Bank.
The temple’s origin is steeped in an intriguing legend. According to ancient tales, Lord Vishnu descended to Earth during the Kali Yuga to bestow blessings upon devotees. Sage Brighu once decided to test the greatness of the Holy Trinity, comprising Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. During his visit to Vaikuntha, he kicked Lord Vishnu in the chest, leading to an incident where Goddess Lakshmi, residing in Lord Vishnu’s heart, felt insulted and descended to Earth as a family member of King Padmavati. Lord Vishnu, in response, chose to meditate on Earth.
According to mythology, Venkateshwara and Padmavati eventually met, and Lord Venkateshwara proposed marriage to the king. The God of wealth, Kuber, provided a substantial amount of wealth for the grand wedding ceremony. Following their marriage, Lord Vishnu chose to reside on the hills of Tirumala, where a magnificent temple was eventually constructed in his honor.
