Tirupati and Tirumala are among the oldest Pilgrimage Sites in India History of

History of Tirupati and Tirumala

 1. Ancient Origins

Tirupati and Tirumala are among the oldest pilgrimage sites in India, with references dating back to the Vedic period (over 2,000 years ago).

The sacred Tirumala hills are part of the Seshachalam Range, formed around 2.5 billion years ago.

Tirumala is also called “Kaliyuga Vaikuntham” (the abode of Lord Vishnu in this age of Kali).

Legends from the Puranas (Varaha Purana, Venkatachala Mahatmya, Skanda Purana) mention the holiness of these hills.

2. Mythological Significance

According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Venkateswara to save mankind in Kali Yuga.

Legend of Lord Venkateswara & Goddess Padmavati:

Vishnu descended to earth and resided on Tirumala hills.

He married Padmavathi, daughter of King Akasa Raja, at Tiruchanur (Padmavathi Temple).

Their divine union is celebrated in Tirupati every year.

The seven hills of Tirumala are said to represent the seven heads of Adisesha (the cosmic serpent of Lord Vishnu).

3. Early Historical References

The first recorded history of Tirupati is found in Tamil literature (Sangam age), referring to the temple as the abode of Thiruvenkata Mudayan (Lord Venkateswara).

Alvars (Tamil Vaishnava saints, 6th–9th century) sang devotional hymns in praise of Lord Venkateswara.

By the 9th century AD, the temple was well established as an important Vaishnavite center.

4. Medieval Period

Pallava Dynasty (4th–9th century): The temple received royal patronage and grew in popularity.

Chola Dynasty (9th–13th century): Expanded temple architecture and supported Vaishnavism.

Vijayanagara Empire (14th–16th century):

The golden era of Tirumala’s history.

Kings like Sri Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529) donated enormous wealth, jewels, and land.

Many parts of the present-day temple architecture, gopurams (towers), and mandapams were built during this time.

Nayak rulers (16th century): Continued contributions after the fall of Vijayanagara.

5. Colonial Period

During the 17th–18th century, Tirupati was controlled by different rulers including the Arcot Nawabs and the East India Company.

In 1801, the British took over the temple administration but allowed Hindu religious management to continue.

6. Modern Period

In 1933, the administration of Tirumala Temple was handed over to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) trust.

Since then, TTD has managed temple operations, donations, pilgrim facilities, education, health, and cultural preservation.

Today, Tirumala is the richest temple in India and one of the most visited religious places in the world, with 50,000–100,000 visitors daily and over 30–40 million annually.

7. Architectural Significance

The temple is built in Dravidian style with massive gopurams, pillared halls, and golden coverings.

The main idol of Lord Venkateswara is made of black stone and is said to be self-manifested (Swayambhu).

The temple also houses priceless jewelry, ornaments, and treasures donated by kings and devotees for centuries.

8. Cultural Importance

Tirupati is not only a religious site but also a center of art, culture, and education.

Tirupati Laddu (prasadam) has GI (Geographical Indication) status.

TTD runs free meals (Annadanam) for all devotees daily.

Major festivals include Brahmotsavam, Vaikuntha Ekadasi, Pavithrotsavam, Rathotsavam.

In short:

Tirupati and Tirumala have a blend of mythology, history, and devotion.

From ancient times through empires and modern governance, the temple has always been a symbol of faith, wealth, and culture.