Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Andhra Pradesh, India, lies the enchanting Pushkarini Tirumala. This serene and sacred water tank is an integral part of the renowned Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, attracting millions of devotees and travelers alike. This essay explores the historical significance, architectural beauty, religious importance, and the spiritual essence of Pushkarini Tirumala.
The holy lake known as Swami Pushkarini can be found on Venkatachala Mountain, close to the city of Ananda Nilayam. This is where the deity settled down after his descent from heaven atop his divine chariot. Swami Pushkarini is the most significant and prominent lake in trilokas, and it is located on the north-eastern side of the Sri Venkateswara Swami temple.
This lake is one of seven that make up trilokas. It is one of the most famous locations on earth, and it is said to have the divine and angelic power to bestow material and worldly comforts on devotees who visit there. The glory and significance of Pushkarini are described in great detail throughout a number of the mythological books and the Puranas.
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History of Swami Pushkarini
Pushkarini Tirumala has a rich historical background dating back to the 10th century. It is believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Chola dynasty, making it an ancient marvel. The tank witnessed the development and expansion of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, and over the years, it has become an indispensable part of the temple complex.
Vamana Purana
Markandeya was a sage who lived in antiquity. He carried out penance in order to appease Brahma so that he would grant him a boon. Markandeya persuaded Brahma with his piety, and Brahma appeared in front of him to grant his deep desire. Sage Markandeya prayed to Brahma for the strength to travel to all heavenly lakes in trilokas, where he could offer prayers and perform devotional service.
Markandeya asked Brahma if it was possible to visit all seven lakes. Brahma replied that it was impossible, but he advised Markandeya to go to “Swami Pushkarini” instead, where he could fulfil his burning desire by taking a single dip in the water on Dwadasi Day in Dhanurmasa at dawn when all heavenly lakes enter the Pushkarini (12th day, the day that comes before full moon day in the month of December). As suggested, Markandeya went to see Swami Pushkarini, served him, and prayed fervently. The sage’s innate desire was granted.
Varahapurana
Once upon a time, a king by the name of “Sanka” ruled. He was a fierce warrior as well as a great devotee. He used to steward the kingdom on the four Dharma wheels. Unfortunately, because of their envy of his wealth, the kings of his neighbouring kingdoms banded together to overthrow him. The news hit “Sanka” like a bolt from the blue. Despite his unwavering efforts, the king was powerless to defend his realm. To defend himself from them had grown to be an impossible task. They took over his realm and forced Sanka to flee for his life. Sanka reached his teacher after getting away from his adversaries.
The teacher was sympathetic to Sanka’s situation and advised him to visit Swami Pushkarini for prayers after taking a bath there. Sanka, who was aware of Pushkarini’s greatness, took a bath there and dedicatedly prayed to God. God appeared to Sanka while he was still in the lake and answered his prayers by giving him back his lost prosperity. His enemies’ coalition was defeated, and they gave back his kingdom.
The blessing that “Sanka” received from God during his visit to Swami Pushkarini helped him become a self-reliant king. Of all sacred lakes, Swami Pushkarini is at the forefront. It has the ability to grant natural desires as well as bestow all blessings upon the Devotees.
Skandapurana
In Chandravamsa, there was once a king by the name of Nandu. His son was named Dharmagupta. The king gave him the very best upbringing. The king handed over control of his kingdom to his young son once he reached adulthood and then retired to the forest. He easily ruled the kingdom. Dharma Gupta visited a forest one day. It was already nighttime when he left for the forest. He was suddenly pursued by a lion. The king climbed a tree to get away from a lion, where he encountered a bear. It was perched on the tree, guarding against the lion.
The king was startled and terrified upon seeing the bear. The bear noticed the king’s fear and expressed it to him in human language. It advised the king not to be afraid of it and suggested he take a short nap because he was extremely worn out. The king had fallen asleep without hesitation after being persuaded by the bear’s conversation.
The lion tried to persuade the bear with flattering words while the king was fast asleep and asked the bear to push the king down from the top of the tree. Even though it was an animal, the bear made an effort to keep its word. It resisted turning on the king. It was stated that there would be no atonement for sin if he did this. It advised the lion to abandon its gluttony.
The bear rested after the king awoke from sleep. The lion used the same trick it had previously used. The king left his promise and pushed the bear from the top of the tree after being persuaded by the lion’s arguments. The bear peered openly and maintained its balance without tipping over. The king was cursed to go insane as punishment for his ungratefulness. The king had since gone insane and was now wandering around everywhere. He was taken to his father, who was performing austerity in the forest, by some of his followers after they recognised him.
The old king was depressed. He brought his insane son to Swami Pushkarini on the advice of the Sage Gemini. He and his son both took a Pushkarini dip. Dharmagupta, his son, broke free from the curse and reclaimed his former intelligence in the very next minute. This proves that Swami Pushkarini has the ability to atone for the ultimate sin.
Brahmapurana
Goddess Saraswathi once created a river out of her desire to be revered and renowned more than any other river, even the Ganga. The location where Goddess Saraswathi transformed into a river was visited by Sage Pulasthya. He believed that the Goddess had not treated him with respect. He cursed Goddess Saraswathi, saying that her wish would not be granted in a furious manner. With this curse, Goddess Saraswathi felt humiliated.
She forbade Pulasthya, prophesying that his sons would turn into monsters and battle Mahavishnu. When the Sage realised his error, he asked the Goddess to reverse her curse. She gave Pulasthya a blessing that his last son Vibhisana would become a devotee of Sri Mahavishnu and bring honour to his family because she knew she couldn’t do it.
After this incident, the goddess Saraswathi performed penance in order to achieve her desire to flow as the holy river. When Sri Mahavishnu appeared, he declared that although he could not lift the curse, he could grant her the blessing of becoming a lake as powerful as the Ganges, which would wash away the sins of any devotees who would immerse themselves in her water. Goddess Saraswathi changed her name to “Swami Pushkarini” after that (the sacred lake).
Bhavishath Purana
The Bhavishath Purana states that while looking for Sita, Sri Rama stopped by Swami Pushkarini. Ravana took Sita hostage. Rama travelled through the mountains to Hanuma’s home in order to find Sita. Through their encounter, he assisted Sugreeva in killing Vali. Anjana Devi, the mother of Hanuma, asked Rama to visit her hermitage as they were about to move in search of Sita. Rama had promised to arrive later, but Hanuma forced him to go there.
He visited her hermitage at her request, blessed the sages, and paid a visit to Swami Pushkarini. He made an obeisance by dipping his head in the water. Purana claims that Rama could only find Sita after bathing in Swami Pushkarini.
Architectural Beauty of Tirumala Pushkarini
The architecture of Pushkarini Tirumala exemplifies the skill and craftsmanship of the bygone era. The tank is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, showcasing the artistic prowess of the ancient sculptors. The steps leading down to the water are beautifully designed, and the entire tank is surrounded by elegant pillared corridors. The tranquil waters reflect the awe-inspiring beauty of the temple, creating a mesmerizing ambience for visitors.
Religious Importance of Venkateshwara Swami Pushkarini
Pushkarini Tirumala holds immense religious significance for devotees. It is believed that taking a dip in the sacred waters of the tank before entering the main temple complex purifies the soul and prepares one for the divine encounter. The Pushkarini symbolizes a spiritual cleansing process, washing away sins and negativities. Devotees often immerse themselves in the holy waters to seek blessings and experience a deep sense of spiritual connection.
Spiritual Essence of Swami Pushkarini
Pushkarini Tirumala provides a sanctuary for spiritual seekers, enveloping them in an aura of peace and tranquility. As one immerses themselves in the cool waters of the tank, a sense of purity and serenity washes over their being. The spiritual energy radiating from the temple complex combined with the natural surroundings creates an atmosphere conducive to meditation, contemplation, and self-reflection. Many visitors find solace in the serene environment, rejuvenating their mind, body, and soul.
Rituals and Festivals at Pushkarini
Various rituals and festivals associated with Pushkarini Tirumala further enhance its religious and cultural significance. Devotees participate in traditional ceremonies such as teertham (holy water) distribution, aarti (ritual of offering light), and prasadam (consecrated food) distribution. The tank becomes a focal point of celebration during festivals like Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadashi, and Rathotsavam, where devotees gather to witness the grandeur of the festivities and immerse themselves in the spiritual fervor.
Timings of Srivari Pushkarini Tirumala
It is for the convenience of all pilgrims who make their way to Tirumala that the Pushkarini in Tirumala is open twenty-four hours a day. Pilgrims often take a bath there before going to Darshan. For the sake of the pilgrims’ wellbeing and safety, the water that is currently housed within the pushkarni is chlorinated and goes through a process of continuous recycling 24 hours a day. It is strongly recommended that you go swimming in the Brahma Muhurtham.
Location of Srivari Pushkarini Tirumala
There is only one entrance to the Tirumala Pushkarini, which is located behind the Varaha Swami Temple. One can see a path leading inside and behind the Varaha Swami temple just to the right of the temple. From here, you can access the Pushkarini.
Locaton of Srivari Pushkarini on Google maps
Amenities at Tirumala Pushkarini
Tirumala Pushakarini has separate restrooms and dressing areas for men and women. There aren’t any separate bathrooms for men and women, though. In Pushkarini, bathing is only permitted from one side close to the Varaha Swamy temple; visitors are not permitted to bathe on the other sides.
Instructions for using Pushkarini
- In the Pushkarini region, it is forbidden for pilgrims to wash their clothes, use soap or shampoo, or wash their hair.
- It is forbidden for pilgrims to swim or dive in the waters of Pushkarini.
- It is strictly forbidden for children to swim alone in the Pushkarini.
- Poojas and other forms of rituals are strictly prohibited anywhere in the area surrounding the Pushkaraini.
To preserve the sanctity and beauty of Pushkarini Tirumala, several conservation initiatives have been undertaken. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure that the water remains pure and hygienic. The authorities also promote awareness among visitors to prevent pollution and maintain the cleanliness of the tank. These efforts ensure that future generations can continue to experience the divine aura of this sacred water tank.
Pushkarini Tirumala stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. It serves as a gateway to inner peace and spiritual awakening for devotees and visitors alike. With its historical significance, architectural marvel, religious importance, and serene atmosphere, Pushkarini Tirumala is a place where one can transcend the boundaries of the material world and experience the divine. A visit to this sacred oasis leaves an indelible mark
Also Read: Srivari Padalu – Tirumala
