In March, we spontaneously decided to journey to Tirupati on the 22nd for a pilgrimage. Arriving in Tirupati at 4 am, we promptly boarded a local APSRTC bus bound for Tirumala. As we gazed upon the majestic hills, a profound reflection emerged: Hills and mountains have always held strange fascination for the human mind and human imagination and even though most of these lofty heights have been scaled, they still seem to invite comparisons with the imaginary heaven, the abode of the gods. That might be one of the reasons why places of worship are often built on hills and mountains. Perhaps, it is easier to believe that the gods must reside in such natural beauty and serenity, away from the cities of despairing men.
By 6:00 am, we arrived at Tirumala but couldn't find any private lodges available. There were agents offering backdoor entry to lodges, but we were wary of them as they tend to overcharge, demanding Rs. 3000 for a day's stay. Instead, we opted for rooms provided by TTD for family members. Although we had to wait in line for a couple of hours, the options were affordable at Vishnu Nivasam starting from Rs. 50 for locker rooms, Rs. 300 for non A/C rooms, Rs. 500 for non A/C suites, Rs. 800 for A/C room and Rs. 1300 for A/C room. While waiting in line, a nearby tea stall vendor played the Suprabhatam, the first prayer of the day.
Suprabhatam – The First Prayer
Suprabhatam stands as one of the most revered prayers in Hindu temples across India, deeply associated with Lord Sri Venkateswara. The opening verses are directed towards Lord Sri Rama, depicting him as the son of Kaushalya. Just as Lord Sri Venkateswara, Lord Sri Rama is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Often recited in the homes of Sri Venkateswara devotees at the break of dawn, this hymn's length has not dulled its popularity in audio renditions.
A Pathway to Joy
My late father often remarked that a visit to Lord Sri Venkateswara Tirumala will use to make him happiness, such descriptions, drawn from the Skanda Purana, not only fill hearts with the joy of divine acquaintance but also kindle a spiritual quest to seek Him. It's both ordinary and expansive in thought, deep yet simple enough to resonate with.
Drawn from Chapter 18 of the Venkatachala Mahatmya, Vaishnava Khanda, Skanda Purana, this passage extols the magnificence of Lord Sri Venkateswara, as narrated by the sage Sri Suta, and elucidates why one should turn to the God of Venkatachala.
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