Tirumala Tirupati: Who are the gods worshipped alongside Venkateswara?

Tirumala Tirupati: Who are the gods worshipped alongside Venkateswara? (image: canva)

The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, one of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites, is celebrated for the worship of Lord Venkateswara, the divine form of Lord Vishnu. But the sacred hills of Tirumala are home to many other important deities as well. These shrines add depth to the spiritual journey of devotees and highlight the rich traditions of the Tirumala Tirupati temple complex.

Sri Varaha Swamy (The Divine Protector of Tirumala)

One of the most important shrines is that of Sri Varaha Swamy, located near the Swami Pushkarini holy tank. As per sacred traditions, Varaha Swamy granted Lord Venkateswara the right to reside on Tirumala. Devotees make it a rule to visit this shrine before entering the main temple.

Goddess Padmavathi (The Grace of Tiruchanur)

A short distance away in Tiruchanur stands the Padmavathi Devi Temple, dedicated to the consort of Lord Venkateswara. Pilgrims visit this shrine after darshan at Tirumala, as the goddess embodies compassion, prosperity and divine blessings for family wellbeing.

Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy (Guardian of Earth)

This unique form of Vishnu, worshipped along with Bhudevi, represents the protection of Earth. The deity is revered for safeguarding Tirumala and ensuring the spiritual purity of the hills.

Bedi Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman in a Special Form)

Standing opposite the main temple entrance is Bedi Anjaneya Swamy, a powerful form of Lord Hanuman. His hands are shown tied, representing a popular local legend. Devotees pray here for courage, protection and inner strength.

Goddess Lakshmi (Divine Prosperity Within the Sanctum)

Inside the temple, Goddess Lakshmi, also known as Alarmelu Mangai, is worshipped as the eternal consort of Venkateswara. Her presence symbolizes abundance, harmony and auspiciousness.

Garuda (The Divine Vehicle of Vishnu)

A dedicated shrine to Garuda, the vahana of Lord Vishnu, stands inside the complex. Devotees believe that praying here removes obstacles and grants divine protection.

Chakrathalwar and Yoga Narasimha (Strength and Serenity)

Close to the sanctum lies a combined shrine of Chakrathalwar, the powerful discus of Vishnu, and Yoga Narasimha, the meditative form of the deity. Together, they represent protection, discipline and spiritual calmness.

Sri Ramanuja (The Philosopher-Saint)

A separate shrine at Tirumala honors Sri Ramanuja, the reformer who shaped many temple traditions and rituals. His teachings strengthened the devotional culture of the Tirumala temple.

Sugriva and Angada (Symbols of Loyalty)

Carvings of Sugriva and Angada, companions of Hanuman from the Ramayana, are placed near the entrance. Their presence symbolizes loyalty, devotion and steadfast service.

A visit to Tirumala goes far beyond seeking blessings from Lord Venkateswara. The presence of multiple deities creates a complete and uplifting spiritual journey. Whether one prays for courage at Hanuman’s shrine, prosperity from Goddess Lakshmi or protection from Varaha Swamy, each darshan adds deeper meaning to the pilgrimage.

For devotees, exploring these shrines reminds them that Tirumala is not just a temple, it is a sacred universe of divine energies that enrich every step of the journey.

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