The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati has a rich history and many legends and myths associated with it. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Legend of Lord Venkateswara's marriage: According to the legend, Lord Venkateswara was married to a princess named Padmavati. It is said that the marriage was arranged by Lord Vishnu's consort, Goddess Lakshmi. The legend also states that the marriage was celebrated with great pomp and show, and the temple was decorated with diamonds, gold, and other precious jewels.
Legend of the Seven Hills: According to the legend, Lord Venkateswara appeared on the seven hills of Tirumala to protect the people from evil forces. It is said that the seven hills represent the seven heads of the serpent Adisesha, on which Lord Vishnu rests.
Legend of Lord Venkateswara's hair: According to the legend, Lord Venkateswara's hair was cut off by his devotee, Ramanujacharya, as an act of devotion. It is said that the hair was then preserved in a box and is still kept in the temple.
Legend of the Akasa Ganga: According to the legend, Lord Venkateswara once asked a sage to provide him with water for his ablutions. The sage created a river of water from the sky, which is known as the Akasa Ganga. It is said that the water from the river is used to perform the daily ablutions of the deity.
Myth of the Footprint on the Hill: According to the myth, Lord Venkateswara appeared to a devotee in the form of a child and asked for some milk. The devotee gave him the milk, but the child disappeared. Later, the devotee found a footprint on the hill, which is believed to be the footprint of Lord Venkateswara.
These legends and myths add to the charm and mystique of the Sri Venkateswara Temple and are an important part of its cultural heritage.
