Venkateswara Temple, Dwaraka Tirumala – Temple Practices

Venkateswara Temple, Dwaraka Tirumala – Temple Practices

Hair Tonsuring:

Many devotees have their head tonsured as Mokku, an offering to God. When Lord Balaji was hit on his head by a shepherd, a small portion of his scalp became bald. This was noticed by Neela Devi, a Gandharva princess. She felt such an attractive face should not have a flaw. Immediately, she cut a portion of her hair and, with her magical power, implanted it on his scalp. Lord Balaji noticed her sacrifice. As hair is a beautiful asset of the female form, he promised her that all his devotees who come to his abode would offer their hair to him, and she would be the recipient of all the hair received. Hence, it is believed that hair offered by the devotees is accepted by Neela Devi. The place where pilgrims fulfill their vow of tonsure is called Kalyana Katta, which is to the west of the main temple. Over 95 barbers, operating in two batches, are available at Kalyana Katta, to perform tonsure.

Prasadam:

Laddu is given at Dwaraka Tirumala Temple as prasadam similar to Tirupati. Daddojanam, Kattupongali, Sarkarapongali, Pulihora, Kadhambam, Gaarimukkalu and Appalu are being distributed daily to the devotees after Naivedana to the deity in this temple.