New Delhi: In a remarkable display of devotion, devotees from Pune visited the renowned Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, adorned with 25 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately ₹180 crore. The group, consisting of two men, a woman, and a boy, arrived decked out in an array of gold ornaments including chains, sunglasses, bangles, necklaces, and even a gold chain featuring the number 7.To ensure the safety and security of the gold-clad devotees, two men in navy blue khaki suits, accompanied by a police officer, were stationed to guard them during their visit to the temple.Temple attendance, offeringsThe Venkateswara Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, attracts between 75,000 and 90,000 visitors daily. According to Syamala Rao, the executive officer of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the temple received offerings worth ₹125 crore in its donation box for the month of July. During the same period, over 22 lakh pilgrims visited the temple, and 8.6 lakh devotees participated in ritual tonsuring. Additionally, the temple sold over one crore laddus, the consecrated sweets that are a staple of temple offerings.Watch the video here:VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh: Devotees from Pune wearing 25 kg of gold visited Tirumalas Venkateswara Temple earlier today.(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/k38FCr30zE— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 23, 2024Historical, religious significanceThe Venkateswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a manifestation of Vishnu, who is revered for rescuing mankind from the trials of Kali Yuga. According to legend, Lord Venkateswara, also known as Srinivasa, Balaji, and Venkatachalapati, chose Tirumala as his eternal residence over five thousand years ago.Prior to his arrival, the area was the abode of Lord Varahaswami. The temple complex, which spans 16.2 acres, has seen the construction of grand entrances and enhancements over generations, reflecting the enduring devotion of countless worshippers.
