Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Tirupati – Ancient Temple & Festivals

 Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Tirupati: Ancient Abode of Lord Govindaraja

Introduction

Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple is one of the most important and ancient temples located in the heart of Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. This sacred shrine holds immense religious significance, especially for Vaishnavites. The temple was consecrated by the renowned saint Sri Ramanujacharya in 1130 AD. Before Lord Govindaraja Swamy, Sri Parthasarathi Swamy was the presiding deity of this sacred site.

Daily rituals in the temple are conducted according to the Vaikhanasa Agama, mirroring the traditions and festivals observed at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The temple opens at 5:00 AM with Suprabhata Seva and closes at 9:00 PM with Ekantha Seva, providing devotees with opportunities to participate in worship throughout the day.

Historical Background and Legend

Preservation During Invasions

During the period of Muslim invasions in South India, the vigraham of Sri Govindaraja Swamy from Chidambaram was safely brought to Tirupati to protect it. After the situation stabilized, the deity was returned to Chidambaram.

Vision of Sri Ramanujacharya

Saint Ramanujacharya once had a vision of Lord Govindaraja Swamy in his dream. The Lord instructed him to arrange for His permanent residence in Tirupati. Ramanujacharya, aware of the deity’s temporary stay during the invasions, visited the location with the king and miraculously discovered the vigraham exactly at the place he saw in his vision. Following this, he advised the king to construct a temple for the deity and houses for the priests who would perform seva in the temple.

Significance of Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple

Sri Govindaraja Swamy is considered the elder brother of Lord Venkateswara Swamy. He played a crucial role during the celestial marriage of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavathi, managing the wealth provided by King Kubera to ensure the grand wedding was conducted flawlessly. Devotees believe that worshipping Sri Govindaraja Swamy helps them manage wealth and attain prosperity.

Temple Architecture

The temple is a remarkable example of ancient South Indian architecture. The seven-storied outer gopuram, adorned with 11 kalasas and intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Bhagavata, Ramayana, and Lord Venkateswara’s life, dates back to the 14th–15th century. The inner gopuram houses a spacious courtyard and stone hall, ensuring the comfort of devotees even during large festivals.

Major Festivals and Celebrations

The temple hosts several festivals and rituals throughout the year:

• Vaisakha Festival (Annual Brahmotsavam)

• Float Festival

• Adhyayanotsavam

• Thiruvadipuram

• Godaparinayam

• Sri Salai Nachiyar Panguni Uttiram Festival

• Radhasapthami

• Jyestabhishekam

• Anivara Asthanam

• Neeratotsavam

• Buggotsavam

• Pavithrosthavam

• Pushpayagam (introduced in 2014)

• Parveta Utsavam and Ponna Kalva Utsavams

• Monthly Pournami Garuda Seva

Arjitha Sevas and Darshan

The temple offers several paid sevas for devotees:

• Suprabhatam: 5:00 – 5:30 AM | Rs. 10/-

• Thomala Seva: 6:30 – 7:00 AM | Rs. 10/-

• Sahasranamarchana: 7:30 – 8:00 AM | Rs. 10/-

• Archanananthara Darshanam: 8:00 – 8:30 AM | Rs. 10/-

• Ekantha Seva: 9:00 PM | Rs. 10/-

• Special Entrance: Rs. 5/-

• Quick Darshan: Rs. 20/-
  
  

Address:   Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple
                  North Mada Street, Tirumala,
                  Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh – 517501, India