Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala – Garuda Shrine
Garuda Shrine is a small
shrine dedicated to Garuda the vehicle of Lord Venkateswara is situated exactly
opposite to the Bangaru Vakili (Golden Entrance) of Jaya-Vijaya. This sub-shrine is part of Garuda Mandapam. The Garuda
deity is six feet tall and faces west looking towards Lord Venkateswara inside
Garbhagriha. He stands with his hands joined in supplication (the Anjali pose).
Being the Lord’s mount, he is shown with outstretched wings, ever ready to
carry him. You will find Garuda's image not only in the shrine but also at the
corners of the prakarams, mandapams and vimanas. At the commencement of the
annual Brahmotsavam of Lord Sri Venkateswara, a flag with the image of Garuda
is hoisted on the Dwajasthamba.
It is believed that the
Prasadam offered to Garuda in this temple, if partaken, will bestow Child boon.
Every day, after completing the early morning puja conducted for Lord Sri
Venkateswara, the Bali Bera of the Lord is taken out in a palanquin to give
offerings to Parivara Devatas. The Lord is believed to personally supervise the
food arrangements made for his subordinates, attendants and devotees. The
palanquin called Sibika is considered to be Garuda himself. An Utsava Murti of
Garuda is kept in the Ramar Meda along with other bronze images.
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